Peanut Butter Cake
Indulge in the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter cake—a dessert that combines the richness of peanut butter with a moist, fluffy cake. This recipe is perfect for celebrations or a cozy family gathering, offering a delightful twist on traditional cakes. With its velvety frosting and beautiful presentation, this peanut butter cake is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This peanut butter cake serves 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, while cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein. This is based on one slice of the cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until creamy.
4. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing well.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
7. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the peanut butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
8. Stir in the vanilla extract until well blended.
9. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter if you’re allergic to peanuts. Additionally, coconut sugar can be used in place of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your peanut butter cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Storage and Reheating
Store the peanut butter cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for a week. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the texture.
- Skipping the greasing step may cause sticking.
- Not letting the cake cool before frosting can cause the icing to melt.
- Using cold ingredients can affect the mixing process.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- For a richer flavor, add chocolate chips to the batter.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
- Experiment with different frostings like chocolate or cream cheese.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture and flavor. Adjust the sugar quantity slightly if desired.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it might alter the texture slightly due to oil separation.
What is the best way to frost the cake?
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. Use a spatula for even application of frosting.
Can I add toppings to the cake?
Absolutely! Chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings make great toppings for added flavor and decoration.
Conclusion
This peanut butter cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with a moist, tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served plain, with frosting, or paired with ice cream, this cake promises a satisfying dessert experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Peanut Butter Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing well.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the peanut butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well blended.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
