🍫🥜 Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake: A Rich Indulgence for Dessert Lovers 🍰
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is a decadent masterpiece combining the richness of chocolate with the creamy goodness of peanut butter. Topped with a glossy ganache and crunchy peanut garnish, this cake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or any time you want to treat yourself!
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- Crushed peanuts for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (it will be thin).
3️⃣ Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4️⃣ Make the Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to boil.
- Remove from heat and pour over the dark chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
5️⃣ Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter over the top.
- Add the second cake layer on top.
6️⃣ Add the Ganache:
- Pour the ganache over the assembled cake, letting it cascade naturally down the sides for an elegant look.
7️⃣ Garnish:
- Sprinkle the top with crushed peanuts for added crunch and decoration.
- Add swirls of chocolate frosting or additional ganache if desired for extra flair.
8️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice into this indulgent cake and savor the perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter!
✨ Tips for Success:
- Room temperature ingredients: Bring eggs and milk to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Perfect ganache: Stir the ganache gently to avoid incorporating air bubbles for a smooth finish.
- Crunchy twist: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: Yes! Milk chocolate will result in a sweeter ganache, perfect if you prefer a milder chocolate flavor.
Q: How do I store leftover cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and assemble with fresh ganache and peanut butter before serving.
Common Mistakes and Solutions
- Mistake 1: Cake layers are too dense.
Solution: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep it light and fluffy. - Mistake 2: Ganache is too runny.
Solution: Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring to thicken it for better coverage. - Mistake 3: Uneven cake layers.
Solution: Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes before assembling.
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