If you adore the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter and want to indulge in a dessert that truly celebrates it, you are in for a treat with this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe. This cake is a delightful and moist celebration of creamy peanut butter combined with just the right amount of sweetness and a luscious frosting that perfectly complements every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe promises a comforting and irresistible dessert that’s both simple to make and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create a cake that’s fluffy, flavorful, and packed with peanut buttery goodness. Each one plays an important role, from the rich peanut butter that gives the cake its signature taste to the baking powder that ensures the perfect rise and crumb.
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter: The star ingredient that infuses the cake with its rich, creamy peanut flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the saltiness of peanut butter with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake to rise and become light and fluffy.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture and richness.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds decadence and a tender texture to the cake.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the batter and makes the cake soft and smooth.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a silky-smooth frosting with a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter: Blended into the frosting for that extra creamy peanut punch.
- 1/4 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors while adding a lovely aromatic note.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8-inch cake pan. In a large bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the 1 cup peanut butter until combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix just until everything is combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake tender and soft.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before moving on to frosting. This step is crucial because frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and become messy.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and 1 cup powdered sugar until creamy and well-blended. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if it’s too runny or a teaspoon of milk if it’s too thick.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, generously spread the peanut butter frosting over the top and sides. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create swirls and peaks for a homemade look that’s utterly charming. This frosting perfectly complements the cake’s rich peanut butter flavor, making each bite indulgent and comforting.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a little crunch, try garnishing your cake with chopped roasted peanuts or a sprinkle of finely chopped dark chocolate. These toppings bring different textures and extra layers of flavor that pair beautifully with the creamy peanut butter richness.
Side Dishes
Consider serving slices of this peanut butter cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for balance. A fresh bowl of mixed berries also works wonderfully, their tartness cutting through the richness for a delightful dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this peanut butter cake into cupcakes topped with peanut butter frosting and a whole peanut on top. Or, layer the cake with sliced bananas and drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the top to create a visually stunning and delicious treat that’s sure to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover peanut butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s better to keep it in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from softening too much. The cake will stay moist and flavorful, making it perfect for enjoying later.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake either whole or as individual slices. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Since this is a frosted cake, reheating is usually unnecessary. If you prefer your cake slightly warm, remove any frosting first and warm a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Add the frosting back on or enjoy it as is for a delightful contrast of warm cake and cool frosting.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and nutty bits throughout the cake, giving it a delightful crunch. Just keep in mind that the texture of the cake and frosting may be slightly different but still delicious.
Is this cake suitable for people with peanut allergies?
No, this cake contains a significant amount of peanut butter, which is unsafe for those with peanut allergies. Always inform guests about the ingredients to ensure everyone’s safety.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. It may affect the texture slightly, but your cake should still turn out tasty and moist.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh for 2 to 3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. The frosting may firm up in the fridge, so let it come to room temperature before serving.
Can I make this cake into cupcakes?
Definitely! Just divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for around 18-22 minutes. The peanut butter frosting will work beautifully as a cupcake topping as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its rich and creamy peanut butter flavor, moist texture, and decadent frosting, it’s a recipe that truly shines whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones. Give it a try—it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to desserts!
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Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and moist peanut butter cake topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting, perfect for peanut butter lovers. This easy-to-make cake combines smooth peanut butter with classic cake ingredients to create a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
Frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and eggs, mixing well until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, smooth peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with a teaspoon of milk if necessary to achieve spreadable frosting.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top and sides. Decorate as desired and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
