If you're a fan of the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter, this homemade chocolate peanut butter cake recipe is the perfect dessert to satisfy your cravings. With its rich chocolatey layers and smooth peanut butter frosting, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for birthdays, special occasions, or a simple weekend indulgence. In this detailed guide, you'll learn everything from the ingredients list to the step-by-step instructions to make a delicious homemade chocolate peanut butter cake that will impress everyone at the table. Ready to bake? Keep reading to find out all the details.

What is a Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
A homemade chocolate peanut butter cake is a layered dessert that typically features a rich and moist chocolate cake base topped with creamy peanut butter frosting. Some versions of the recipe may also include a ganache or peanut butter drizzle, adding an extra layer of indulgence. This cake is perfect for anyone who loves the timeless pairing of chocolate and peanut butter, creating a balanced flavor profile that is sweet, nutty, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients List for Chocolate Cake
For the chocolate cake, you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened 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
These ingredients will help create the base of your cake, ensuring that it turns out moist, rich, and perfectly balanced with a deep chocolate flavor. The boiling water at the end ensures the cocoa powder dissolves completely, intensifying the chocolate taste.
Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Frosting
For the peanut butter frosting, you'll need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (or as needed for consistency)
The peanut butter frosting is the star of this recipe, adding a creamy, nutty contrast to the rich chocolate cake layers. You can adjust the milk to get the right texture for spreading or piping, making sure it’s creamy but firm enough to hold its shape.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try to make this chocolate peanut butter cake your own:
- Flour: If you want to make the cake gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Sweeteners: Swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit for a lower-sugar option.
- Oil: If you prefer a more buttery taste, you can substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter. You could also use coconut oil for a slightly tropical twist.
- Peanut Butter: You can use natural peanut butter, but make sure it's the smooth variety to avoid texture issues in the frosting.
- Frosting Flavor: For a fun twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter frosting. You could also add mini chocolate chips for extra texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy release.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
- Add boiling water: Stir in the boiling water slowly. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Cook Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare your frosting: While the cakes are cooling, make the peanut butter frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well blended. Add milk one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second layer on top of the frosted layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Decorate as desired: You can add decorative piping, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate ganache for an extra touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking the cake: Keep a close eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking can result in a dry cake, so use a toothpick to check for doneness as soon as the baking time is nearly complete.
- Not allowing the cake to cool fully: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Make sure the cake is completely cooled before you start frosting.
- Improper frosting consistency: If your frosting is too thick, it can be difficult to spread. If it's too thin, it won’t hold its shape. Gradually add milk or powdered sugar to adjust the consistency until it's just right.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when it comes to a show-stopping cake like this. Here are some tips to make sure your homemade chocolate peanut butter cake looks as good as it tastes:
- Smooth frosting: Use an offset spatula to evenly smooth out the frosting, creating a professional finish. If you're feeling artistic, you can also add texture with decorative swirls or patterns.
- Add toppings: Consider topping the cake with chocolate chips, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce. This adds texture and visual appeal.
- Slice cleanly: Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice through the cake for clean, professional-looking servings.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
When it comes to serving, this cake pairs perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. For a more decadent experience, you could serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
To serve the cake, cut generous slices, making sure each piece gets a good balance of cake and frosting. If you're serving this at a party or gathering, consider offering small plates and forks to make it easier for guests to enjoy.
Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
- Layered effect: When slicing the cake, you’ll want to highlight the beautiful contrast between the dark chocolate cake and the light peanut butter frosting. Serve on a white or neutral-colored plate to make the colors pop.
- Decorative drips: Add a chocolate ganache drip around the edges of the cake for a modern, elegant presentation. Use a squeeze bottle or spoon to carefully let the ganache drip down the sides.
- Peanut butter swirl: Create a peanut butter swirl on the top of the cake by lightly dragging a toothpick through dollops of melted peanut butter, creating a marbled effect.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: The flavor of the cake largely depends on the quality of the cocoa powder you use. Opt for a high-quality brand to get a rich, intense chocolate flavor.
- Chill the cake for easier frosting: After the cakes have cooled completely, consider refrigerating them for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to frost, especially if you want a smooth, clean finish.
- Don’t rush the process: Take your time to follow the steps carefully. From properly measuring ingredients to cooling the cakes before frosting, every detail counts in making the perfect chocolate peanut butter cake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also refrigerate the frosted cake for up to 3 days.
2. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap the individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative in the frosting.
4. What if I don’t have a 9-inch cake pan?
You can use an 8-inch pan, but you will need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
5. Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
Yes, you can easily convert this recipe into cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds of the way full and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.
Conclusion
This homemade chocolate peanut butter cake is a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich chocolate layers and creamy peanut butter frosting, it's the ultimate dessert for fans of this classic flavor combination. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cake-making for the first time, this step-by-step guide will help you create a masterpiece that looks and tastes amazing. Enjoy baking and indulge in the perfect slice!
PrintHomemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
This Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake recipe is a decadent dessert made with layers of moist chocolate cake and a smooth peanut butter frosting. The rich flavors of cocoa and creamy peanut butter make it a crowd favorite. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion, this cake is easy to bake and irresistibly delicious!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Boiling water
- Peanut butter
- Butter
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and grease your cake pans.
- Combine the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, oil, and vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients, then mix in boiling water.
- Pour batter into pans and bake until done.
- While the cake cools, prepare the peanut butter frosting by mixing peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and cream until smooth.
- Layer the cakes with frosting, and decorate as desired.
Notes
- Ensure cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- For extra flavor, add a chocolate ganache topping or sprinkle crushed peanuts between layers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 320mg
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