Are you ready to indulge in a rich, decadent dessert that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter? This homemade chocolate peanut butter cake is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves these two iconic flavors. With layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter frosting, and a luscious chocolate ganache, every bite is pure bliss. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you're craving something special, this cake will be a hit with everyone who tries it. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this show-stopping dessert at home!

What is a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
A chocolate peanut butter cake is a layered dessert that marries the rich, dark flavor of chocolate with the creamy, slightly salty taste of peanut butter. Typically, it consists of a chocolate cake base layered with peanut butter frosting, sometimes with an additional topping of chocolate ganache or glaze. This cake is especially popular because it balances sweetness and saltiness in a way that appeals to both chocolate and peanut butter fans alike.
Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
To make this delicious cake, you'll need a combination of simple pantry staples along with a few special ingredients to get that perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chocolate Cake Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water (for extra moisture and richness)
Peanut Butter Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream (add more for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Chocolate Ganache Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:
- Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make the cake gluten-free.
- Sugar: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor and a slightly healthier option.
- Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk if you're looking for a dairy-free version.
- Oil: Coconut oil can be used instead of vegetable oil to add a subtle coconut flavor.
- Peanut Butter: For a nut-free version, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Chocolate: Try dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or use white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier ganache.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the detailed steps of making this luscious chocolate peanut butter cake.
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well-blended.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
- Carefully pour in the boiling water and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined. The batter will be thin, but this helps create a moist cake.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat together peanut butter and butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for 3-4 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. Adjust the consistency with additional cream if needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
How to Assemble the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Place one layer of the cooled chocolate cake on a cake stand or serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting over the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and cover the top and sides with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
- For a final touch, garnish the cake with chopped peanuts, chocolate curls, or mini peanut butter cups if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking the Cake: Chocolate cake can dry out quickly, so be sure to check for doneness at the 30-minute mark.
- Frosting Consistency: If the peanut butter frosting is too thick, add a bit more heavy cream to make it spreadable. If it’s too thin, add a little extra powdered sugar.
- Ganache Temperature: Ensure the ganache is slightly cooled before pouring it over the cake to avoid melting the frosting.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your chocolate peanut butter cake can take it from delicious to absolutely unforgettable! Here are some tips:
- Slice with a Hot Knife: To get clean slices, dip your knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then cut the cake.
- Add Texture: Garnish with chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter cups around the base of the cake for a professional finish.
- Drip Effect: Pour the ganache from the center and let it naturally drip over the sides for a beautiful presentation.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Serve this cake slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with a glass of cold milk, hot coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat. Each slice is rich and filling, so smaller slices are usually enough to satisfy.
Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Make your cake look as good as it tastes with these presentation ideas:
- Chocolate Drips: For a dramatic look, let the ganache drip naturally over the sides.
- Peanut Butter Swirls: Create swirls of peanut butter frosting on top of the ganache using a piping bag.
- Candy Garnish: Decorate with peanut butter cups, chocolate shavings, or chopped peanuts for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
- Chill the Layers: If possible, chill the cake layers before frosting. This helps the frosting spread more easily and prevents crumbs.
- Store Properly: Keep the cake covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Assemble and frost the cake on the day you plan to serve.
Q: How long does chocolate peanut butter cake last?
A: It can last for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze chocolate peanut butter cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Thaw before frosting.
Q: What type of peanut butter works best?
A: Creamy, regular peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) works best as it creates a smooth frosting. Avoid natural peanut butter as it may separate.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
This homemade chocolate peanut butter cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike. With its moist layers of chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter frosting, and rich ganache topping, it's truly a show-stopping treat. Whether it's for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Follow these easy steps, tips, and presentation ideas, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Now it’s time to get baking – enjoy every rich, peanut buttery, chocolatey bite!
PrintHomemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
This decadent homemade chocolate peanut butter cake is layered with moist chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting. Ideal for dessert lovers, it combines rich chocolate and nutty flavors, making it the perfect treat for any celebration.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
-
Cake
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Boiling water
-
Peanut Butter Frosting
- Creamy peanut butter
- Butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Milk (as needed for consistency)
-
Chocolate Ganache (optional)
- Heavy cream
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cake
Preheat the oven and grease cake pans. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine, then add boiling water for a smooth batter. -
Bake
Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely. -
Make the Frosting
Beat peanut butter and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Adjust with milk for a spreadable consistency. -
Assemble and Frost
Layer the cakes with peanut butter frosting between them, then cover the top and sides. -
Add Ganache (optional)
Heat heavy cream and pour over chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cake.
Notes
- Ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Ganache is optional but adds extra chocolatey richness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 280mg
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