Description
Indulgent Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Cake: A Decadent Dessert Masterpiece
Ingredients (Serves 10-12)
For the Chocolate Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
For the Peanut Butter Filling
1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp milk (as needed for creaminess)
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
For Garnish (Optional)
Chopped peanut butter cups
Crushed peanuts
Chocolate shavings or curls
Instructions
Make the Chocolate Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line 2 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
Slowly pour in the boiling water while mixing (the batter will be thin, but that’s okay).
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and softened butter together until smooth and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing well.
Add vanilla extract and 2-3 tbsp of milk (as needed) to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Beat until light and fluffy.
Make the Chocolate Ganache
Heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds or until hot (but not boiling).
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
Whisk the mixture until smooth and glossy. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before pouring over the cake.
Assemble the Cake
Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread a generous layer of peanut butter filling over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top.
Spread a thin layer of peanut butter filling around the sides and top of the cake (this is the crumb coat).
Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to set.
Add the Ganache
Pour the cooled ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful effect.
Smooth the top with a spatula if necessary.
Garnish & Serve
Decorate with chopped peanut butter cups, crushed peanuts, and chocolate shavings.
Chill for at least 30-60 minutes to let everything set.
Slice and serve this decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Cake!
This Indulgent Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Cake is every chocolate and peanut butter lover’s fantasy. With rich layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy peanut butter filling, and a silky ganache, it’s the ultimate showstopper for birthdays, parties, or any special celebration!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a flawless cake. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending. When adding boiling water to the cake batter, mix on low speed to prevent splashes. For the peanut butter filling, sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps. When assembling, use a rotating cake stand for even spreading. Apply the crumb coat thinly; its purpose is to trap crumbs, not to be the final layer. For the ganache drip, test its consistency by dripping a spoonful down the side of a glass. It should flow slowly, not run. Use an offset spatula for the smoothest top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice slightly chilled for clean cuts. Pair with a cold glass of milk, a bold cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the richness. For a dinner party, garnish individual plates with a swirl of salted caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor profile.
How-to Summary
This masterpiece involves three key components: bake two layers of moist chocolate cake, whip up a fluffy peanut butter buttercream filling, and create a simple chocolate ganache. Assemble by layering cake and filling, applying a crumb coat, chilling, then finishing with a glossy ganache pour and optional garnishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time? Absolutely. Wrap the completely cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling.
My ganache is too runny/thick. How can I fix it? If too runny, add more chopped chocolate and let it sit to melt. If too thick, gently reheat with a small splash of warm cream.
Can I use natural peanut butter? It’s not recommended. The oil separation in natural peanut butter can lead to a greasy, unstable filling. Use a commercial creamy peanut butter for best results.
How do I store the finished cake? Store covered in a cake dome or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let slices sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I turn this into cupcakes? Yes. Fill liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes. Core the centers and fill with the peanut butter filling before topping with ganache.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding hot ganache to a warm cake, which will cause it to melt and slide off.
- Overmixing the cake batter after adding the dry ingredients, which can develop gluten and make the cake tough.
- Using cold ingredients for the filling, which will not incorporate smoothly and can look curdled.
- Skipping the crumb coat chilling step, resulting in a messy final appearance with crumbs in the ganache.
- Pouring ganache that is too hot, leading to thin, transparent drips instead of luxurious, opaque ones.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Cake is a true labor of love that delivers an unforgettable sensory experience. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can confidently create a stunning, professional-quality dessert. The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is guaranteed to impress and satisfy any crowd, making all the effort utterly worthwhile.