This indulgent chocolate peanut butter cake is a dessert lover’s dream! Layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and smooth chocolate ganache come together to create the ultimate sweet treat. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Chocolate and Peanut Butter Perfection: A classic flavor combination that never disappoints.
- Easy to Make: Uses a boxed cake mix with a few delicious upgrades.
- Rich and Creamy: Features a luscious peanut butter filling and decadent ganache.
- Perfect for Celebrations: A show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter
Directions
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter, stirring until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and pour the ganache over the entire cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache. Slice and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Extra Peanut Butter: Add a layer of peanut butter cups between the cake layers.
- Crunchy Twist: Mix crushed peanuts or toffee bits into the filling or sprinkle on top.
- Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and peanut butter for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.
- Layered Elegance: Make this a three-layer cake by dividing the batter into three pans.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Make-Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day ahead and assemble when ready to serve.
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid an oily filling.
2. How do I prevent the ganache from being too runny?
Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to thicken it.
3. Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?
Yes, a hand mixer or even a whisk works just as well for mixing the batter and filling.
4. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the ganache will be sweeter. Adjust to your preference.
5. How do I evenly layer the peanut butter filling?
Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling evenly.
6. What if my ganache hardens too quickly?
Warm it slightly in the microwave or over low heat to restore its pourable consistency.
7. Can I bake this as a sheet cake?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time as needed.
8. Can I use whipped cream instead of ganache?
Yes, whipped cream makes for a lighter topping, though it won’t have the same richness.
9. What’s the best way to slice this cake cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe it clean between slices.
10. Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Yes, a touch of cinnamon or espresso powder pairs beautifully with the peanut butter.
Conclusion
Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is easy to make. With its rich chocolate layers, creamy peanut butter filling, and smooth ganache, this cake is perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for an unforgettable slice of sweetness!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is the ultimate indulgence! Featuring a rich chocolate cake base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is simple to make yet irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Ganache:
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Make the Cake:
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 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:
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Layer the Cake:
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly on top. Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to secure.
Make the Ganache:
- Prepare the Ganache:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the chocolate chips and heavy cream, stirring until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Top the Cake:
- Pour the ganache over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Smooth the ganache with a spatula if needed.
Serve:
- Chill and Slice:
- Let the cake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for the ganache to set. Slice and serve!
Notes
- For extra flair, garnish the cake with chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter cups.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired