The Best Peanut Butter Cake
This recipe for The Best Peanut Butter Cake is a delightful treat that will please any peanut butter enthusiast. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence at home, this cake combines rich peanut butter flavor with a moist texture that’s hard to resist. The creamy frosting adds an extra layer of decadence without overwhelming sweetness, making it the ideal dessert for all occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of smooth peanut butter in both the cake and frosting delivers an irresistible taste.
- Moist Texture: With the right balance of oils and ingredients, this cake stays moist and tender.
- Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual dinner, this cake fits perfectly into any event.
- Easy to Make: Simple instructions mean you can whip up this delicious cake quickly.
- Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra variety!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter and frosting for a light texture.
- 9-inch round cake pans: Provides even baking for layers that stack beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 grams)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml) (canola oil works too)
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar (300 grams) (or 3/4 cup dark brown sugar and 3/4 cup granulated sugar)
- 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter (180 grams)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup milk (180 ml) (room temperature)
For the Frosting
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (170 grams) (softened but still slightly firm to the touch)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (56 grams) (full-fat, brick style )
- 3/4 cup peanut butter (180 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 -4 1/2 cups powdered sugar (420 – 540 grams)
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (15-30 ml) (if needed)
How to Make The Best Peanut Butter Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Cake Pans
Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray or butter. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Whisk these together until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, beat together:
Vegetable oil
Light brown sugar
Smooth peanut butter
Mix until smooth. Then add in:
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Milk
Blend until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix!
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
While cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together:
Unsalted butter
Cream cheese
Add:
Peanut butter
And blend until creamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and adjust consistency with heavy cream if needed.
Step 8: Assemble Cake
Once cakes are completely cool, layer them with frosting in between each layer and cover the top and sides with remaining frosting.
Now you have created The Best Peanut Butter Cake, ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve The Best Peanut Butter Cake
This delightful peanut butter cake is perfect for any occasion and can be served in various ways to enhance its delicious flavor. Whether you are celebrating a birthday or enjoying a cozy dessert night, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich peanut butter flavor, creating a delightful contrast.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Adding a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the cake’s taste and adds an elegant touch for special occasions.
Topped with Crushed Peanuts
- Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for added crunch and flavor. This simple addition elevates the cake’s presentation and texture.
Accompanied by Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of cake with fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on each slice adds a fluffy texture that complements the denser cake.
How to Perfect The Best Peanut Butter Cake
To ensure your peanut butter cake turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients – This allows for better mixing, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- Measure flour correctly – Avoid using too much flour by spooning it into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tough results.
- Check doneness with a toothpick – Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready.
- Let it cool completely before frosting – This prevents the frosting from melting into the cake, keeping your layers intact.
- Store properly – Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Peanut Butter Cake
While The Best Peanut Butter Cake is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can create a more satisfying meal experience. Here’s a list of side dishes that complement this delightful dessert perfectly:
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your dessert table and adds vibrant colors.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies bring an additional layer of sweetness and are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Peanut Butter Cookies – For true peanut butter lovers, pairing these cookies enhances the theme while offering different textures.
- Coffee or Espresso – Serving coffee alongside this cake brings out its flavors and makes for a comforting combination.
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzling caramel over slices adds another sweet element that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
- Milkshake – A creamy milkshake, particularly vanilla or chocolate-flavored, complements the richness of the peanut butter cake nicely.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Offer toppings like nuts, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream to create personalized sundaes alongside your cake.
- Cheesecake Bites – These rich bites contrast nicely with the cake’s texture and provide variety to your dessert spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the perfect peanut butter cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
-
Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Always ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
-
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a tender and fluffy cake.
-
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts, especially flour and sugar.
-
Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
-
Using Low-Quality Peanut Butter: Cheap peanut butter can compromise flavor. Opt for natural, high-quality peanut butter for that rich taste you want in The Best Peanut Butter Cake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- The Best Peanut Butter Cake lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best Peanut Butter Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
Reheating The Best Peanut Butter Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Best Peanut Butter Cake special?
This cake stands out due to its rich peanut butter flavor combined with a moist texture. It’s perfect for peanut butter lovers who enjoy a balanced sweetness.
Can I customize The Best Peanut Butter Cake?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or swirl in some jam for added flavor. Feel free to experiment with different frostings too!
How do I know when The Best Peanut Butter Cake is done baking?
The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it.
What type of peanut butter is best for this recipe?
Smooth peanut butter works best as it integrates easily into the batter and frosting, ensuring that delightful peanut flavor throughout.
Final Thoughts
The Best Peanut Butter Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences. Whether it’s for a birthday party or just a cozy dessert at home, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings!
The Best Peanut Butter Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in The Best Peanut Butter Cake, a delightful dessert that peanut butter lovers will adore. This moist cake features a rich peanut butter flavor and is topped with a creamy frosting that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and decadence. Ideal for birthdays, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat at home, this cake is easy to make and offers endless customization options. Whether you serve it with vanilla ice cream, drizzled with chocolate sauce, or alongside fresh berries, this cake promises to elevate any occasion. Whip up this irresistible dessert and enjoy the comforting flavors of peanut butter in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar
- ¾ cup smooth peanut butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 3 ½ – 4 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (if needed)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together oil, brown sugar, and peanut butter until smooth. Add eggs and milk; mix well.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended.
- Divide batter into prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
- For the frosting, beat together softened butter, cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Once cakes are cooled completely, frost between layers and on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
