If you are a die-hard peanut butter fan or simply in search of a rich, comforting dessert, this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Imagine a moist, tender cake infused with the deep, nutty flavor of peanut butter, topped generously with a luscious, creamy peanut butter frosting that’s just sweet enough and studded with delightful mini chocolate chips. The perfect balance between sweet and savory makes this cake a standout at any gathering, and it’s surprisingly easy to make, too. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a Sunday treat, this recipe brings true joy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s for the perfect crumb, a silky texture, or that signature peanut butter richness. Let’s walk through what you’ll need to bring this cake to life.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and softness.
- Light brown sugar: Added sweetness with a hint of molasses for deeper flavor and moistness.
- Peanut butter: The star ingredient, lending its creamy, nutty character to both the cake and frosting.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Leavens the cake, making it rise and stay light.
- Baking soda: Works with the acidic components for perfect texture and slight lift.
- Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the cake soft and delicate.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Honey: Sweetens and adds a subtle floral undertone to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: The base of the frosting’s sweetness and smooth texture.
- Mini chocolate chips: The final touch for bursts of chocolatey goodness that complement peanut butter perfectly.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease and flour a 10 by 15-inch cake pan to ensure your peanut butter cake won’t stick when it’s time to serve. This step might seem minor, but it’s key for an easy release after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients with Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter. Using an electric mixer on low speed, blend these ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly. This process helps evenly incorporate the peanut butter throughout the batter, giving every bite that luscious nutty flavor.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Eggs
Next, pour in the milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and crack in the eggs. Begin mixing on low speed to combine, then increase to medium speed and beat for about 3 minutes. This thorough mixing ensures a smooth batter that will produce a tender, moist cake texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, making sure it’s spread evenly. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell during baking is divine and will have everyone eager to dig in.
Step 5: Let the Cake Cool Slightly
After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cake firm up just enough for the frosting to spread smoothly without melting away.
Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting
While the cake rests, make the frosting by microwaving peanut butter and honey until it softens. Stir in vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and milk, then beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. This frosting is creamy and rich, perfectly balancing the cake’s texture.
Step 7: Frost and Add Chocolate Chips
Spread the frosting over the warm cake evenly. Immediately sprinkle mini chocolate chips across the top, letting them settle slightly into the frosting. Allow the whole cake to cool completely before slicing; this step ensures clean cuts and the frosting sets beautifully.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the visual appeal and taste of your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe, think about adding chopped peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate across the top. These garnishes add both crunchy texture and an eye-catching finish, making the cake irresistible before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cold creaminess balances the dense, peanut buttery flavor and adds refreshing contrast, turning this dessert into a full sensory experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter with fresh berries or edible flowers for a charming touch. For a more rustic approach, present it as a layered cake with extra frosting in between layers to amp up the indulgence factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, store it covered in the refrigerator; it can last around 4 to 5 days and still retain its moist, delightful texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cake slices will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to keep that creamy frosting intact.
Reheating
To serve the cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This quick warming enhances the peanut butter flavor and softens the frosting slightly, giving you that ‘fresh-from-the-oven’ feel every time.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works well, but keep in mind it may be a bit thinner and oilier, which can slightly alter the cake’s texture. You might want to reduce added butter just a bit to balance it out.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help hold the cake together.
How long will this cake stay moist?
This peanut butter cake stays moist for several days when stored properly. The peanut butter itself helps retain moisture, so you can expect it to be delicious and tender for at least 3 to 4 days refrigerated.
Can I double the frosting to spread between cake layers?
Definitely! Doubling the peanut butter frosting is a great idea if you plan to make a layered cake. It will add extra creaminess and richness between the layers without overwhelming the cake.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
If mini chocolate chips aren’t on hand, feel free to chop up regular chocolate chips or use finely chopped dark or milk chocolate. They will melt differently but still give you a lovely chocolate accent on top.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe—it’s like a big, warm hug in cake form. From the way the batter comes together to the moment those mini chocolate chips melt into the creamy frosting, every step feels like creating a little bit of magic. I truly encourage you to try this recipe soon; it’s perfect for celebrations or simply spoiling yourself on a sweet afternoon. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to keep it in your baking repertoire forever.
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Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and moist Peanut Butter Cake is perfectly complemented by a creamy Peanut Butter Frosting and sprinkled with mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Ideal for peanut butter lovers, this cake combines classic ingredients to create a comforting and delightful dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4–5 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10 x 15-inch cake pan to prevent sticking and allow for easy cake removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients with Fats: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter. Use an electric mixer on low speed to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Leaveners: Gradually add milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and eggs to the bowl. Mix on low speed initially, then increase to medium speed and beat for 3 minutes. This helps create a smooth, well-incorporated batter with good aeration.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cake Slightly: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to frost.
- Prepare the Frosting: Microwave the peanut butter and honey together until softened and easy to stir. Mix in the vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and milk. Beat the mixture until smooth and spreadable, adjusting milk quantity as needed for the right consistency.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the warm cake. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top to add a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving to set the frosting properly.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
- The mini chocolate chips can be substituted with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
