Extra Moist and Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm slice of cake, especially when it has the luscious combination of chocolate and peanut butter. The Extra Moist and Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, a warm hug in cake form. Imagine the rich, chocolatey scent wafting through your kitchen as this cake bakes, promising a treat that is both indulgent and comforting.

This cake is a dreamy duo of super moist chocolate layers layered with creamy peanut butter frosting that melts in your mouth. Each bite encapsulates a perfect balance of sweetness, with the decadent chocolate complemented beautifully by the nutty richness of peanut butter. It’s a delightful way to treat yourself or a loved one, making any occasion feel special. So why not gather your ingredients and bake this nostalgic treat this weekend? Pin this recipe for later, and let’s dive into the details.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for cozy weekends or brunch with family
• Wholesome flavor that feels like home
• Impresses guests with its beautiful layers
• Satisfies both chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the Extra Moist and Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, gather these ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and helps the cake rise perfectly.
• 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the batter for that delightful taste.
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor without added sugars.
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise and gives it a fluffy texture.
• 1.5 teaspoons baking soda – Works alongside the baking powder for the perfect lift.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors without making the cake salty.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
• 1 cup whole milk – Contributes to the moist texture of the cake.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Ensures the cake remains tender and moist.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses wonderful flavor in every bite.
• 1 cup boiling water – Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds moisture.
• 1 cup peanut butter – The star ingredient for the creamy frosting.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness to the frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it the right texture.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until uniform.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined; the batter should be smooth.
4. Gradually stir in the boiling water. This step may seem unusual, but it really boosts the chocolate flavor and moisture.
5. Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared pans. Your cake layers will be nice and consistent this way.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. For the peanut butter frosting, beat the peanut butter and heavy cream together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until you reach a silky texture.
9. Assemble your cake by placing one chocolate layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top.
10. Add the second layer of chocolate cake on top and repeat the process with more frosting.
11. Place the final layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining peanut butter frosting, smoothing it out as you go.
12. For a special touch, drizzle with chocolate glaze before serving, if desired.

Pro Tips for Success

• Measure flour correctly for a light texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Allow baked goods to cool completely before applying frosting to prevent melting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the cake moist.
• Use natural or creamy peanut butter for the best frosting consistency.
• Experiment with a chocolate glaze for an extra touch of decadence.

Variations and Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this cake recipe by adding different flavors and textures:

• Chocolate Chips: Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for extra bursts of chocolate in each bite.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar to the batter for a hint of spice.
• Flavored Frosting: Swap out the peanut butter for Nutella or almond butter for a twist on flavor.
• Fruit Additions: Consider adding mashed bananas or crushed strawberries in between the layers for a fruity surprise.

How to Store or Freeze

To keep the Extra Moist and Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the un-frosted cake layers, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This allows you to enjoy this decadent treat whenever you desire. Simply thaw the layers in the fridge overnight before frosting them.

Serving Ideas

This cake is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some cozy ways to enjoy it:

• Serve Warm with Coffee: Heat a slice slightly and pair it with your morning coffee for the perfect pick-me-up.
• Bring to a Celebration: Perfect for birthday parties or family gatherings, this cake will be the star of the dessert table.
• Lunchbox Treat: Pack slices in lunchboxes for a delightful midday treat.
• Perfect for Sunday Brunch: Serve it with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a lovely brunch spread.

For More Recipe Inspiration

Looking for more delicious ideas? Check out these delightful recipes:

• Protein Muffins
• Smash Cake Recipe
• Bento Cake Recipe

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Emily

A dreamy duo of super moist chocolate layers layered with creamy peanut butter frosting, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and helps the cake rise perfectly.
• 2 cups sugar Sweetens the batter for that delightful taste.
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds rich chocolate flavor without added sugars.
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise and gives it a fluffy texture.
• 1.5 teaspoons baking soda Works alongside the baking powder for the perfect lift.
• 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors without making the cake salty.
• 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
• 1 cup whole milk Contributes to the moist texture of the cake.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil Ensures the cake remains tender and moist.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses wonderful flavor in every bite.
• 1 cup boiling water Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds moisture.

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

• 1 cup peanut butter The star ingredient for the creamy frosting.
• 1 cup heavy cream Adds richness to the frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting and gives it the right texture.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until uniform.
• Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined; the batter should be smooth.
• Gradually stir in the boiling water to boost the chocolate flavor and moisture.
• Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared pans.

Baking

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting

• For the peanut butter frosting, beat the peanut butter and heavy cream together until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until you reach a silky texture.

Assembly

• Assemble your cake by placing one chocolate layer on a serving plate and spreading a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top.
• Add the second layer of chocolate cake on top and repeat the process with more frosting.
• Place the final layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
• Drizzle with chocolate glaze before serving, if desired.

Notes

Measure flour correctly for a light texture. Use air-tight containers for storage.

Keyword Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe, Layer Cake, Moist Cake, Peanut Butter

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Embrace the rich flavors of this Extra Moist and Rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, and bring warmth and joy to your baking adventures. Happy baking!