Peanut Butter Cake

The moment I took my first bite of this Peanut Butter Cake, I was transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of baking goodies filled the air. My mom used to whip up this cake to celebrate little victories—like finishing my homework or scoring a goal in soccer. Each slice was a sweet reward, perfectly balanced with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter and a moist texture that made it irresistible. Every time I bake this cake, it feels like I’m rekindling those cherished memories, creating new ones with every gathering of friends and family.

Shopping List for Peanut Butter Cake

When it comes to baking the perfect Peanut Butter Cake, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating that delightful flavor and texture. Each component contributes to the cake’s moistness and rich taste. I always opt for the best quality natural peanut butter I can find, as it makes a significant difference in the end result. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this cake to life!

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a fluffy texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: This helps the cake rise, making it light and airy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Enhances the rise and contributes to the cake’s texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/3 cup coconut oil: Adds moisture and a slight coconut flavor; can also use other oils.
• 1/3 cup natural unsweetened peanut butter: The star ingredient that gives this cake its rich, nutty flavor.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, making the cake irresistibly tender.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent, contributing to the cake’s structure.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Ensures the cake remains moist and adds a slight tang.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 cup natural unsweetened peanut butter: For the frosting, providing a creamy and rich finish.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and richness to the frosting.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a thick, spreadable consistency.
• up to 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adjust for the desired frosting consistency.

Making This Peanut Butter Cake

Baking the perfect Peanut Butter Cake is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the process. Each step allows you to connect with your creation, ensuring that each bite is filled with love and flavor. Let’s go through the steps together, so you can bring this delicious cake to life in your kitchen!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because a properly heated oven helps the cake rise evenly, ensuring a fluffy texture. While the oven heats, you can prepare your ingredients for a smoother workflow.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and removes any lumps, which is essential for a light cake.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of natural unsweetened peanut butter, 1/3 cup of coconut oil, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is creamy and well-combined, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is important to incorporate air into the batter, helping it rise.
4. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture. Beat until just combined. You want to avoid over-beating at this stage, as it can affect the cake’s texture.
5. Now, it’s time to alternate adding the dry ingredients with 1 cup of buttermilk to the wet mixture. Start with the dry ingredients, then add some buttermilk, and repeat until everything is combined. This method helps maintain the batter’s lightness.
6. Grease a 9X3 inch round baking pan (I highly recommend using Magic Line pans for even baking) and pour the batter into the pan. Give it a gentle shake to level the batter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out moist but not wet. If it comes out dry, your cake might be overbaked.
8. Once baked, let the cake sit in the pan for 5 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is an essential step that helps with the texture and ensures you can frost it without it melting.
9. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of natural unsweetened peanut butter and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
10. Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating after each addition. This method helps to avoid a cloud of sugar and ensures a smooth frosting.
11. Once combined, add heavy cream until you reach a spreadable consistency. Remember, the frosting should be thick but not too stiff.
12. Now, cut the cooled cake in half horizontally. Frost the bottom half generously and then stack the top layer upside down on it. Frost the top layer and down the sides, creating a beautiful finish.
13. Let the frosted cake sit for a bit before slicing. This will enhance the flavors as the cake settles.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to get creative, there are plenty of fun variations you can try with this Peanut Butter Cake. Each twist brings a new flavor profile and surprise to your guests. Here are some ideas to inspire your next baking adventure!

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn.
• Chocolate Variation: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the frosting for a rich chocolate-peanut butter combo.
• Honey Glaze: For a more moist and goopy version, drizzle a honey glaze made from 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of butter over the cake.
• Nutella Swirl: Fold in some Nutella into the frosting for an extra chocolatey delight.
• Ganache Topping: Pour a layer of chocolate ganache over the top for an ultra-decadent finish.

How to Enjoy Peanut Butter Cake

Sharing a slice of Peanut Butter Cake is a wonderful way to connect with family and friends. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperatures.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is ideal for birthday parties, family reunions, or any celebration.
• With Coffee: Enjoy a slice with your afternoon coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
• Seasonal Events: This cake is great for year-round celebrations, from summer picnics to winter holidays.
• Gifts: Wrap a few slices as a special homemade gift for friends and neighbors.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Peanut Butter Cake is a delightful treat that’s sure to please everyone at your table. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it captures the essence of comfort baking. I encourage you to try making it for your next celebration or even just for a cozy night in. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears and how much joy it brings to your loved ones.

Peanut Butter Cake

The ultimate comfort food, this Peanut Butter Cake is moist, rich, and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy frosting and nutty flavor, it's sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Make this delectable cake tonight and savor each bite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.33 cups coconut oil at room temperature or oil of choice
• 0.33 cups natural unsweetened peanut butter
• 1 cups brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cups buttermilk can substitute with milk and vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cups natural unsweetened peanut butter for frosting
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar can use less if preferred
• 0.5 cups heavy cream at room temperature

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In a medium bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of natural unsweetened peanut butter, 1/3 cup of coconut oil, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Beat until creamy.
• Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until just combined.
• Alternately add the dry mixture and 1 cup of buttermilk to the wet mixture, beating until combined.
• Grease a 9X3 inch round baking pan and pour the batter into it.
• Bake for about 30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
• Let the cake cool for 5 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
• For the frosting, combine 1 cup of natural unsweetened peanut butter and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Beat until smooth.
• Add 3 cups of powdered sugar gradually, beating until combined, then add heavy cream to reach spreadable consistency.
• Cut the cooled cake in half and frost the bottom layer, then stack and frost the top layer.

Notes

• Tip 1: To cut back on calories, bake the cake in a 9X13 cake pan as a sheet cake and make half the amount of frosting.
• Tip 2: For a more moist version, poke holes in the sheet cake and drizzle a honey glaze over it.
• Tip 3: For chocolate frosting, add cocoa powder to the frosting.
• Tip 4: For a Nutella variation, add Nutella to the frosting.
• Tip 5: Pour chocolate ganache over it for an ultra-decadent dessert.

Keyword Easy Peanut Butter Dessert, Moist Peanut Butter Cake, Peanut Butter Cake, Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.