Let’s talk cake. What is a peanut butter cake? What’s your favorite peanut Butter Cake Recipe? What is the kind of cake that reminds me of childhood birthdays and cozy Sunday afternoons? If you’re a fan of peanut butter cookies, imagine that same comforting flavor in savory, moist, decadent cookies. Is this cake a peanut butter heaven?
What is peanut butter cake?
Think of it as a classic yellow cake, but amplified with the creamy, nutty goodness of peanuts. What’s the flavor explosion in every bite? The cake itself is infused with Peanut Butter, giving it a tender crumb and rich taste. Is peanut butter overly sweet? It’s incredibly simple to make! I don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up this delicious treat. What is one of those recipes that’s been passed down, tweaked, and refined over generations? I’m sharing it with you!
Why do I love this recipe?
What’s not to love about peanut butter cake? First, the flavor. Oh, that flavor! What’s that perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a deep, satisfying peanut butter taste that’ll have you hungry for more? What are you craving more? What I love about this is how moist it is. Is it dry or crumbly? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, and the steps are straightforward. Is easy to follow and understand? This isn’t one of those complicated, multi-layered cakes that takes all day to make. Is this a good weeknight dessert? And let’s not forget the cost-efficiency! What are some of the best substitutions for peanut butter in a cake? What are some good ways to satisfy your sweet tooth? I’ve found this recipe to be incredibly versatile too. Can you serve it plain, with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, or go all out with decadent desserts? Is peanut butter frosting a good idea? Is it safe to eat over Ice Cream? Is this recipe a family favorite? Is it just that nostalgic, comforting quality that makes everyone smile?
How do I make peanut butter cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make Peanut Butter cake? We’ll start by mixing together the dry ingredients, then combining the wet ingredients. How do I make a smooth batter? Pour it into a prepared pan and bake until golden brown. While it cools, you can whip up a simple glaze (or more elaborate frosting, if you’re feeling fancy). The beauty of this recipe is that it’s forgiving and adaptable. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour: I prefer unbleached for the best flavor. * 1 teaspoon baking powder: For baking, I use a whole wheat flour. How do I make a fresh cake? * 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor. * 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Use good quality butter for the best results. * 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and moisture. * 2 cups packed light brown sugar. Adds a caramel-like note. * 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter: adds caramel flavor. I always go with a smooth, classic peanut butter for the best texture. Adds richness and structure to the cake. * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor. What is the best buttermilk recipe for a moist and tender cake? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. How much lemon juice should I add to a cup of milk?
For the Glaze (optional):
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter * 2 cups powdered sugar * 1/4 cup milk * 1 cup Peanut Butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. 1 tablespoon nutmeg
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch Baking Pan. I always use a little bit of shortening and then dust it with flour. How do I make a clean cake?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to whisk baking powder and baking soda? What are some good ideas to put aside for now?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. What is the best way to do this with an electric mixer? What is the recipe for Peanut Butter? Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sugar. Make sure the butter is softened, but not melted, for the best creaming results.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning with salt and pepper. Is it possible to make a dough with dry ingredients? How do I make a hard cake? I usually do this in three additions, starting with dry, then adding half the buttermilk, and finally the dry. I like to use this as a snack. What are the dry ingredients? How do I get rid of streaks of flour?
Step 5: Bake
How do I spread the batter in a pan? I bake for 30 minutes or until skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. I always start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. What are the different types of ovens and how do they differ?
Step 6: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze (if using). For the glaze, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, Peanut Butter, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake. I like to let the glaze set before serving.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice the cake and serve. Is this cake good on its own? Dollop of whipped cream.
What should I serve it with?
What are the different ways to enjoy Peanut Butter cake?For Breakfast:How do you serve a slice of bread with coffee? I like to warm mine up a little.For Brunch:Serve it alongside fresh fruit and a mimosa for an elegant brunch spread. Cut it into smaller squares for a cute presentation.As Dessert:Where it really shines? Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle of chocolate sauce, or whipped topping. Is it good with cold milk?For Cozy Snacks:Sometimes you just need a little something sweet in the afternoon. A slice of this cake with a cup of tea is the perfect comfort food. My family usually devours this cake within a day or two, so we don’t often have leftovers. If you do, it’s just as delicious the next day (if not more!)
How do I make a perfect peanut butter cake?
How do I make a delicious peanut butter cake? How do I make it perfect every time?Butter Softening:Make sure your butter is properly softened. Is it soft enough that you can easily press a finger into it? What is the best way to make a fluffy cake?Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the batter! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Ingredient Swaps:If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute almond milk for buttermilk. I’ve tried it, and it works great!Baking Tips:Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. Ovens can vary, so it’s important to check for doneness around 30 minutes. If you inserted a toothpick into the center of your mouth, it should come out clean.Glaze Variations:If you want a richer glaze, you can add 1 tablespoon of cream cheese to the glaze. Is it a good creaminess?What is your favorite peanut butter flavor?I usually use creamy peanut butter, but you can experiment with chunky. I like chunks. Is it possible to change the texture of a cake? I’ve also found that adding cinnamon to the batter enhances the peanut butter flavor. What is a warm, comforting note? Trust me on this one!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
What is the best way to make peanut butter cake?Room Temperature:Can you store your cake at room temperature for up to 3 days? Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Again, make sure to wrap it tightly or store it in an airtight container.
Freezer Instructions: If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to add the glaze after it has thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or runny.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is more than just a cake; it’s a slice of comfort, nostalgia, and pure deliciousness. It’s the perfect cake for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just craving a sweet treat. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade peanut butter cake for yourself. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my peanut butter blossom cookies or my peanut butter fudge. They’re all family favorites! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think, and feel free to share your own variations. I’m always looking for new ideas!
Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Peanut butter
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 large Eggs
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and peanut butter until smooth. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the peanut butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting.
