Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake
A rich chocolate cake layered with creamy peanut butter frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Gives the cake structure.
- 2 cups sugar Sweetens the cake.
- 3/4 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder Adds rich chocolate flavor.
- 2 1/4 tsp baking soda Helps the cake rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder Adds fluffiness.
- 1 tsp salt Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup milk Keeps the cake moist.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil Adds richness.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 cup hot water Makes the batter smooth and easy to mix.
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature Makes the frosting creamy and rich.
- 1 1/4 cups peanut butter The star of the frosting!
- 9 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 6-7 tbsp water or milk To adjust frosting consistency.
Garnish Ingredients
- 6 Reese’s, chopped Adds crunchy, chocolatey bits to the cake.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips For a rich chocolate ganache.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream Makes the ganache smooth.
- 8 Reese’s, cut in half Perfect for decorating the cake.
- Crumble some extra Reese’s For a delightful topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs—mix until smooth.
- Slowly mix in the hot water for a thin batter.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Assemble
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- While cooling, whip together the peanut butter, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add water or milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then sprinkle with chopped Reese’s.
- Set the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- For the ganache, heat the cream until steaming, then pour over the chocolate chips; stir until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the frosted cake and let it drizzle down the sides.
Serve
- Decorate the top with halved Reese’s and crumbled pieces for extra flair.
- Slice it up and watch everyone’s eyes light up.
- Pair it with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate indulgence!
- Enjoy every delicious bite; it's a peanut butter lover's dream come true!
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother blend; don't overmix to keep the cake fluffy. Chill the frosting if it's too soft.