This Peanut Butter Cake is a rich and moist treat, topped with an irresistible Peanut Butter-Honey Frosting. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet honey, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips makes this dessert perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra-moist cake with a delightful peanut butter flavor.
A simple, one-bowl recipe that’s easy to whip up.
Frosted while warm for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Topped with chocolate chips for an extra touch of indulgence.
Perfect for peanut butter lovers and great for parties or family gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cake

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups light brown sugar, packed
1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 eggs

Frosting

1/2 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
4 to 5 tablespoons milk
1 cup mini chocolate chips

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, light brown sugar, peanut butter, and butter. Use an electric mixer on low speed to blend until crumbly.
Add the milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and eggs. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are combined, then beat on medium speed for 3 minutes.

2. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake in the middle rack of your oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Prepare the Frosting

While the cake bakes, warm the peanut butter and honey in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until softened.
In a medium bowl, combine the warmed peanut butter and honey with vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and 4 tablespoons of milk. Beat until smooth, adding more milk as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

4. Frost the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Spread the frosting over the warm cake for easy application and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the frosting for a fun and delicious finishing touch.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
Double Chocolate: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.
Crunchy Texture: Use crunchy peanut butter or sprinkle chopped peanuts on top.
Layer Cake: Divide the batter between two 9-inch round pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Frost and stack the layers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze the cake (unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid separating in the batter or frosting.

What can I substitute for honey in the frosting?

Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

How do I make the frosting thicker?

Add more powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini?

Yes, regular chocolate chips work just as well.

What’s the best way to frost a warm cake?

Use a spatula to gently spread the frosting, starting in the center and working outward.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend.

Can I use a different type of pan?

Yes, you can use a 9×13-inch pan, but the baking time may need to be adjusted.

How do I prevent overbaking?

Check the cake at 35 minutes and test with a toothpick; remove it as soon as it comes out clean.

What can I serve with this cake?

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for a perfect pairing.

Conclusion

This Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter-Honey Frosting is a delightful combination of creamy, nutty, and sweet flavors. Perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or just a weekend treat, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Bake it today and enjoy a slice of indulgence!