Peanut butter cake is the kind of dessert that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine biting into a moist slice where creamy peanut butter meets fluffy cake, creating a heavenly blend that fills the kitchen with a nutty aroma. If you’re like me, there’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty flavors that tickles the senses and brings back childhood memories of slathering peanut butter on everything from toast to apples.
This cake isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for any time you need a little pick-me-up. Picture yourself hosting friends or simply indulging after a long day, surrounded by the comforting scent of baking. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds or thirds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This peanut butter cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike
- The rich flavor profile combines sweet and salty notes, ensuring everyone loves it
- Its gorgeous golden-brown appearance will impress guests at any gathering or celebration
- Plus, this recipe is versatile; you can serve it plain or jazz it up with frosting or toppings!
Every time I bake this cake, I’m reminded of the time my cousin tried to sneakily take the last piece at our family reunion. The look on her face when she realized I was watching was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for a light and fluffy texture in your cake.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key! Adjust according to your preference if you’d like it less sweet.
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Baking Powder: This helps your cake rise beautifully, giving it that perfect fluffiness.
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Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors, so don’t skip this step!
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Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing; this adds richness to your batter.
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Peanut Butter: Choose creamy or crunchy based on your preference; both work wonderfully!
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Eggs: They help bind everything together; use large eggs for best results.
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Milk: Adds moisture and creates a tender crumb in your cake.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile to new heights.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Pans: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with nonstick spray and dust them lightly with flour.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Cream Butter and Peanut Butter : In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes—just enough time for those delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.
Add Sugar and Eggs : Gradually mix in granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re incorporated fully.
Add Milk and Vanilla : Pour in milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick—don’t worry if it looks a bit sticky!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : Gradually fold in the dry mixture into the wet batter using a spatula. Be gentle; overmixing can lead to dense cake! Fold just until no dry flour remains visible.
Bake Your Cake : Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean—this is where patience pays off!
Now that you’ve followed these steps diligently, let cool before frosting with your favorite topping or enjoying plain!
And just like that, you’ve crafted an irresistible peanut butter cake that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- The secret to a perfect peanut butter cake lies in using creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture
- Always sift your flour to avoid lumps, and don’t skip the cooling process; it helps the flavors meld beautifully
- Enjoy the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, mix dry ingredients first, then cream butter and sugars before adding eggs. This sequence ensures an even texture and flavor throughout your peanut butter cake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for extra flavor and crunch. You can also swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy if you prefer a bit of texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store your peanut butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for about 10 seconds to enjoy its warm, gooey goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When baking this peanut butter cake, use room-temperature eggs for better mixing
- Avoid over-mixing after adding flour; it can lead to a denser cake
- If you want a sweeter taste, consider adding a touch more sugar than the recipe calls for
The first time I made this peanut butter cake, my friends devoured it within minutes! Their smiles and compliments made me realize I had stumbled upon something special that everyone could enjoy.
FAQ
Can I use natural peanut butter for the cake?
Yes, natural peanut butter works but may alter the texture slightly.
How long does this peanut butter cake last?
Stored properly, it stays fresh for about three days at room temperature.
Can I freeze leftover cake?
Absolutely! Wrap slices well and freeze for up to two months.
Peanut Butter Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Peanut Butter Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, making it a favorite for any occasion. This moist, fluffy cake infused with creamy peanut butter is not only easy to make but also brings back fond childhood memories of indulgent peanut butter snacks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar until fluffy. Mix in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in milk and vanilla until combined.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving or frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
