Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that perfectly captures the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter in every bite, then you’re in for a real treat with this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe. This luscious dessert brings together a moist, tender cake base and a creamy, sweet peanut butter frosting that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Every spoonful bursts with peanutty flavor, making it an irresistible favorite whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving an indulgent snack to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe, you’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor and texture – from the creamy peanut butter to the fluffy cake that forms the perfect foundation.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that gives the cake its unmistakable peanut flavor and moist texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create that soft cake crumb and smooth frosting.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Brings deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and lightens the texture.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with baking powder for the perfect lift and texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps bind ingredients for a tender crumb.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: The key for creating a smooth, sweet frosting.
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk: Used to adjust frosting consistency to creamy perfection.
• 1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts: Optional but highly recommended for a crunchy topping and extra peanut punch.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake will bake evenly and come out of the pan easily, setting the stage for perfection right from the start.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the peanut flavor begins to build its creamy foundation, so take your time to get it just right.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Next, add both the brown and granulated sugars. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth. The sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its lovely moist texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs, Vanilla, and Milk

One at a time, mix in the eggs, fully blending each before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract and milk. These ingredients add richness, flavor depth, and moisture, creating the perfect batter base.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry components separately ensures that the leaveners are evenly distributed for a consistent rise.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet peanut butter mixture. Stir just until combined to maintain a tender crumb—overmixing can make the cake dense, and we definitely want that light, fluffy texture!

Step 7: Pour and Smooth Batter

Pour your batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top evenly. This helps your cake bake uniformly and look beautiful once out of the oven.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, resist the temptation to frost right away and let the cake cool completely—that way the frosting won’t melt and slide off.

Step 9: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

While the cake cools, start your frosting by beating together peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. This creates the luxurious, peanut-buttery base of your frosting.

Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar and Milk

Slowly mix in the powdered sugar and milk, adjusting until you get a thick, smooth, and spreadable consistency. This sweet layer will perfectly complement the denser cake underneath.

Step 11: Frost the Cake

Spread the frosting evenly over the completely cooled cake. Getting a smooth surface makes each slice picture-perfect and ready to impress.

Step 12: Top with Chopped Peanuts and Serve

Finish your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe by sprinkling chopped salted peanuts over the top for a delightful crunch and an extra hit of salty-sweet flavor. Slice it up and prepare to enjoy every decadent bite!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of chopped salted peanuts not only adds texture but also enhances the saltiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet frosting. For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing with a drizzle of melted chocolate—peanut butter and chocolate are an unbeatable combo.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes it to the next level. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside fresh berries to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a small dollop of frosting piped decoratively on top, capped with a single peanut half or edible gold dust for a celebratory look. If you want to get playful, cut the cake into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s better to keep it refrigerated, wrapped well to prevent the cake from drying out. The flavors often deepen after resting, so leftovers are a treat too.

Freezing

Both the cake and frosting freeze well separately. Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. The frosting can be frozen in a sealed container and thawed before use; simply give it a quick whip before spreading.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you prefer your cake slightly warm, gently warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—be careful not to melt the frosting!

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add delightful little peanut bits throughout the cake and frosting, giving an extra textured experience. Just be mindful it might slightly alter the smoothness of the frosting.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup to make it gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and substitute the milk with any non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a delicious dairy-free version.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated. Always cover to keep it moist and protect from fridge odors.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

Definitely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger pan or two pans. Adjust baking time accordingly by checking doneness regularly—you might need a few extra minutes depending on pan size and depth.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistibly comforting about this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe that makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers creamy, nutty happiness in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple dessert in your kitchen too!

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