If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, this cake is your dream come true. This rich dark chocolate peanut butter cake is everything you’ve ever wanted in a dessert: moist, decadent, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for celebrations or simply indulging your sweet tooth after a long day, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds.
Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of luscious chocolate cake, only to be greeted by a creamy, dreamy peanut butter frosting. It’s a match made in dessert heaven! Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy dinner at home, this cake is sure to impress your guests and make you the star of the show.
The Rich Textures of Dark Chocolate
The allure of dark chocolate lies not just in its rich flavor but in its ability to create an indulgent experience. A two-layer dark chocolate cake captures this essence perfectly, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert.
Every bite of this cake reveals the depth of chocolate, with a moist texture that invites you to savor each morsel. The use of unsweetened cocoa powder intensifies its flavor, providing that bittersweet note that pairs beautifully with sweetness.
Peanut Butter Frosting: A Creamy Delight
Complementing the robust chocolate layers is a creamy peanut butter frosting that brings a nutty sweetness to the table. This frosting is not merely a topping but a rich layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Combining creamy peanut butter with softened butter creates a frosting that is both luscious and smooth. The addition of powdered sugar and heavy cream ensures it spreads easily, allowing for a beautiful finish on this decadent cake.
Assembly: Building Layers of Flavor
Assembling this cake is an art in itself. Start by placing one layer of the chocolate cake on your serving plate and generously spreading peanut butter frosting on top. The key is to create a balanced layer that complements the cake without overwhelming it.
Once the second layer is added, frost the entire cake, making sure to cover every inch with that creamy goodness. This not only adds flavor but also creates a stunning visual appeal, especially when garnished.
Finishing Touches: Garnishes that Impress
No cake is complete without a touch of decoration. Chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts sprinkled on top serve not only as a garnish but as an invitation to indulge further.
These toppings add texture and visual contrast, making the cake not just a delight to taste but also a feast for the eyes. The rustic wooden table setting enhances this aesthetic, grounding the dessert in a warm and inviting environment.
Serving Suggestions for Memorable Moments
This cake is perfect for various occasions, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Slice the cake into generous portions, revealing the rich chocolate layers and creamy frosting within.
Serve with a fork ready beside each slice, inviting guests to savor the flavors and enjoy the moment. Each piece is a delightful treat that promises to satisfy cravings for both chocolate and peanut butter.
Storing and Enjoying Later
If there are any leftovers, storing this cake is simple. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate it for extended freshness.
When ready to enjoy another slice, simply let it come to room temperature to experience the full depth of flavors once again. With its rich profile, each bite maintains its allure, making this cake a treasured recipe for any dessert lover.
The Ultimate Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
This cake features layers of moist dark chocolate cake paired with a rich and creamy peanut butter frosting. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, with deep chocolate notes complemented by the nutty sweetness of peanut butter. Each bite is a delightful experience that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for frosting)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for frosting)
- Chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth. Stir in the boiling water until combined; the batter will be thin.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter frosting on top before placing the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Garnish: Optional – sprinkle chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts on top for decoration. Serve and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 450kcal per slice
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
