Here’s a recipe for a Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Cake that’s rich, indulgent, and combines two classic flavors into one showstopping dessert. This cake features layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter frosting, and a decadent chocolate ganache drizzle. It’s a dream come true for chocolate and peanut butter lovers!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped peanuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Make the Chocolate Cake:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the hot water and mix until the batter is thin and well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
5. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Let the ganache cool slightly, then drizzle it over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the top of the cake with chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, if desired.
- Slice and serve!
Tips for Success:
- Use natural creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and texture in the frosting.
- For a smoother ganache, use high-quality chocolate chips or baking chocolate.
- If the ganache thickens too much, reheat it gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Cake is a heavenly dessert that’s sure to impress!