The Ultimate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Guide
Are you a peanut butter fanatic? Do you dream of rich, decadent peanut butter desserts? Then look no further! This recipe will guide you through making a supremely moist and flavorful peanut butter cake that's guaranteed to impress. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is broken down into sections for the cake, the frosting, and a delightful peanut butter drizzle. Make sure you have all your ingredients ready before you start!
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Peanut Butter Drizzle (optional but highly recommended!):
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons milk
Baking Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a perfect peanut butter cake every time.
Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 2: Combining the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Bringing it All Together
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Stir in the peanut butter until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Baking the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cooling and Frosting
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Making the Peanut Butter Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the peanut butter, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 7: Assembling Your Masterpiece
Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of frosting. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
Step 8: The Finishing Touch (Peanut Butter Drizzle)
For an extra touch of peanut butter heaven, gently melt the peanut butter and milk together in a microwave-safe bowl. Drizzle the melted peanut butter mixture over the frosted cake.
Tips for Peanut Butter Perfection:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients will ensure that your batter mixes smoothly and your frosting is light and fluffy.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cakes are baked through.
- Let it Cool Completely: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt.
Serving Suggestions:
This peanut butter cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy baking, and remember to share your delicious creations with friends and family. Happy baking!
