Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Introduction

Dive into a delightful journey with our Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake, where the deep, bold essence of chocolate meets the silky, rich taste of peanut butter. Crafted with multiple layers of moist chocolate cake, smooth peanut butter frosting, and lush chocolate ganache, this dessert is crowned with Reese’s peanut butter cups for that extra lavish touch. Ideal for any celebration or simply to indulge in a sumptuous treat, this cake stands out as a crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of luxury with every bite. Join us as we embark on creating this magnificent dessert, a tribute to the classic duo of chocolate and peanut butter.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (228g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (414g) sugar
• 3/4 cup (85g) cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 2 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water

Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 2 cups (448g) butter, salted, at room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups (350g) peanut butter
• 9 cups (1035g) powdered sugar
• 6–7 tbsp (90-105ml) water or milk
• 6 Reese’s, chopped

Chocolate Ganache and Topping:

• 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
• 8 Reese’s, halved
• Reese’s, crumbled

Instructions

Chocolate Cake Layers:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Grease three 8-inch cake pans with non-stick spray and line with parchment.
2. Mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, oil, vanilla, and eggs. Combine with dry ingredients, then gradually add hot water, mixing on low speed.
4. Divide batter among pans, bake for 22-25 minutes, then cool on a rack.

Peanut Butter Frosting:

1. Whip butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and liquid gradually, until creamy.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Level cooled cakes. On a plate, layer cake, frosting, and chopped Reese’s; repeat.
2. Apply a crumb coat, then frost the cake smoothly. Use an offset spatula for decorative touches.

Chocolate Ganache:

1. Heat cream until it boils, then pour over chocolate chips. Wait, then whisk until smooth.
2. Drizzle ganache over the cake, adding Reese’s halves and crumbles as decoration.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep: 45 minutes
• Cook: 25 minutes
• Total: 1 hour 10 minutes + chilling
• Serves: 12-14 slices

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is a sophisticated blend of comforting chocolate and peanut butter, making it a memorable dessert for any occasion. From festive gatherings to special family treats, this cake promises to dazzle and delight chocolate and peanut butter aficionados alike. Revel in the process of crafting this opulent cake and the happiness it spreads among those who indulge.