Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Are you a fan of the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter? Then you’ll love this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake recipe! With moist chocolate layers and creamy peanut butter frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit at any special occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy equipment, so it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans on a wire rack.
7. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
8. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture and beat until smooth and fluffy.
9. Place one of the cooled cakes on a cake stand and spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top.
10. Place the second cake on top of the frosting and spread the remaining frosting on the top and sides of the cake.
11. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: To make this recipe vegan, replace the milk and eggs with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and flax eggs, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter in the frosting.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and be sure to use gluten-free baking powder and baking soda.
• Peanut Butter Cup Cake: For an extra indulgent treat, chop up some peanut butter cups and sprinkle them on top of the frosting before serving.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes: If you prefer individual servings, you can use this recipe to make cupcakes instead of a cake. Simply divide the batter evenly between 24 cupcake liners and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

With these variations, you can make this recipe fit your dietary restrictions or preferences without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors. Give it a try and let us know what you think!

FAQ

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter. Just make sure to mix it well before using it in the recipe.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, you can use almond butter instead of peanut butter. However, it will change the flavor of the cake.

Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate?

Yes, you can use a different type of chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate. Just make sure to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe accordingly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of flour instead of all-purpose flour?

No, we do not recommend using a different type of flour instead of all-purpose flour. It will change the texture of the cake.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, you can use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil. We recommend using canola oil or grapeseed oil.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can use a different type of milk instead of whole milk. We recommend using 2% or whole milk for best results.

Can I add nuts to this cake?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, to this cake for added texture and flavor.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Yes, you can add frosting to this cake. We recommend using a chocolate or peanut butter frosting for best results.