Craving something rich, nutty, and irresistible? This Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a decadent treat that combines the deep flavor of roasted peanuts with a moist, fluffy cake base and velvety smooth frosting. It’s the perfect go-to for dessert lovers looking for easy food ideas, quick baking options, and indulgent snack or party treats. Whether you’re browsing for breakfast ideas or easy dinner dessert pairings, this easy recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. A real winner in the world of sweet, satisfying comfort food.
Peanut butter lovers unite! This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of one of the most beloved flavors around. The combination of creamy peanut butter infused into both the cake and the frosting makes for an unforgettable experience. Imagine cutting into a piece of this cake, revealing its soft and fluffy interior studded with bits of roasted peanuts. The luscious frosting adds that final touch, making it a show-stopping treat for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply a weekend dessert craving.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting
- Irresistible Flavor: Enjoy the rich and nutty flavor of peanut butter in both the cake and frosting.
- Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe keeps it straightforward and accessible.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just about 55 minutes, this dessert is perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Treat: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping to make or eat this cake!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delicious baking adventure, ensure your kitchen is properly organized. You’ll need to gather all your ingredients and tools ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience. Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This cake requires the following essential tools:
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for the batter and a separate one for dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer: To easily beat the butter and sugars until fluffy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.
- Rubber spatula: For folding in ingredients and scraping the sides of the bowls.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (plus more if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
- Chopped peanuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure even baking. Next, grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray, allowing the cake to release easily once it’s baked.
Step 2: Creaming the Butters
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This step is important as it creates a fluffy base for the cake. Then, gradually add in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Continue beating until the mixture is light in color and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Adding the Eggs & Vanilla
Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Follow this with a splash of vanilla extract; this will enhance the flavor of the cake.
Step 4: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. This mixture is essential for the cake’s structure and rise. Mixing them gently ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to mix everything together. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar blend, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to create a smooth batter. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a denser cake.
Step 6: Optional Add-ins
If you choose to include chopped roasted peanuts, fold them gently into the batter until evenly distributed. This will create delightful crunchy bites throughout the moist cake.
Step 7: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with the spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-baking.
Step 8: Cooling Time
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.
Step 9: Making the Frosting
To make the peanut butter frosting, beat the softened butter and peanut butter in a bowl until creamy. Then, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until it’s smooth and fluffy. Follow this with the remaining vanilla extract and heavy cream, adjusting the amount of cream if the frosting is too thick.
Step 10: Frosting the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the creamy peanut butter frosting evenly over the top. For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the frosting.
Step 11: Serve & Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares, serve, and watch your family and friends enjoy every delicious bite!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding chopped chocolate candy bars or chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Vegetables: Though unconventional, finely shredded zucchini can keep the cake extra moist.
- Spices: For added warmth, integrate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, use ingredients that are at room temperature. This helps mix more thoroughly and rise better.
- To store leftovers, keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Adding a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the frosting provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
- This cake can also be made a day ahead; just frost before serving!
Serving Suggestions
- This cake pairs excellently with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an even more indulgent dessert.
- Enjoy it with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate on a cozy evening.
Tips
- For those who prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar a bit to suit your taste.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, milk works just fine for a lighter frosting.
- Experiment by drizzling some chocolate syrup on top of the frosted cake for a related flavor kick.
- Make it gluten-free using a gluten-free flour blend while maintaining the same proportions.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 470
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Sugar: 33g
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for the cake?
While natural peanut butter can be used, it may alter the texture of the cake slightly, making it denser. Creamy peanut butter is preferred for best tasting results.
How can I store the leftovers?
Keep the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend its freshness.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. For every egg, use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.
How long will the frosting last?
The frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature and re-beat before using.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is not just a dessert—it’s a memorable experience for peanut butter fans everywhere. With its fluffy texture, rich flavor, and sweet frosting, this cake is guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to make this cake your next baking adventure, whether for celebrations or just a simple treat. Be sure to try different variations and toppings to make it your own! If you love this recipe, please leave a comment, and don’t forget to share your own creative twists!
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Decadent Peanut Butter Cake with Frosting
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a decadent treat that combines the deep flavor of roasted peanuts with a moist, fluffy cake base and velvety smooth frosting.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (plus more if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
- Chopped peanuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure even baking. Next, grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray, allowing the cake to release easily once it’s baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This step is important as it creates a fluffy base for the cake. Then, gradually add in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Continue beating until the mixture is light in color and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Follow this with a splash of vanilla extract; this will enhance the flavor of the cake.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. This mixture is essential for the cake’s structure and rise. Mixing them gently ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Now it’s time to mix everything together. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar blend, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to create a smooth batter. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a denser cake.
- If you choose to include chopped roasted peanuts, fold them gently into the batter until evenly distributed. This will create delightful crunchy bites throughout the moist cake.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with the spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-baking.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.
- To make the peanut butter frosting, beat the softened butter and peanut butter in a bowl until creamy. Then, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until it’s smooth and fluffy. Follow this with the remaining vanilla extract and heavy cream, adjusting the amount of cream if the frosting is too thick.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the creamy peanut butter frosting evenly over the top. For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the frosting.
- Slice the cake into squares, serve, and watch your family and friends enjoy every delicious bite!
Notes
For best results, use ingredients that are at room temperature. This helps mix more thoroughly and rise better.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Protein: 7 g