Are you ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience? Our Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe combines the rich, decadent flavors of chocolate and the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, special event, or just to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Keep reading for an easy-to-follow guide, complete with expert tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas to make your dessert a showstopper!

What is a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
A Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a layered cake that combines moist chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter frosting or filling. The harmonious blend of the intense cocoa flavor and smooth peanut butter makes this cake a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether it’s the creamy peanut butter layers or the chocolatey goodness, this cake brings together two classic flavors in a truly irresistible way.
Ingredients List for Chocolate Cake
To make the chocolate layers for your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water (or strong brewed coffee for enhanced flavor)
Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Frosting
For the rich, creamy peanut butter frosting that ties this cake together, you will need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or commercial, depending on preference)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup heavy cream or milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Substitutions and Variations
Making a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is all about personalizing the recipe to your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.
- Sugar-Free Option: For a reduced-sugar version, use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener in the cake batter and frosting.
- Add Mix-Ins: For extra texture, consider folding in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips into the cake batter or frosting.
- Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Want to add even more richness? Prepare a chocolate ganache by melting semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy cream, then drizzle it over the top of your frosted cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Baking a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake from scratch may seem intimidating, but it's easier than you think. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you bake a perfect cake every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy release once the cakes are baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure an even distribution of ingredients and eliminate any lumps in the cocoa powder.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently.
Step 4: Add Boiling Water
Gradually add the boiling water (or hot coffee) to the batter. This step intensifies the chocolate flavor while also making the cake batter thin, which will result in a lighter, moister cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting
While your cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are fully cooled, it’s time to assemble. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of peanut butter frosting over the top, then place the second layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.
How to Cook Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a more detailed guide to ensuring your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Batter Consistency: After adding the boiling water (or coffee), the cake batter will be very thin. Don’t worry—this is normal! It ensures that your cake layers will be extra moist.
- Cooling Completely: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting them. Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and become too runny.
- Even Layers: If your cake layers come out domed, use a serrated knife to level them off before stacking. This will help your cake look more polished.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cake as it bakes. Overbaking can cause the cake to dry out.
- Not Sifting Dry Ingredients: Sifting the dry ingredients helps to ensure a light, fluffy cake by evenly distributing the leaveners.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Always line your cake pans with parchment paper to prevent the cakes from sticking, even if you grease the pans well.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can make a big difference when serving a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake. Here are some tips to impress your guests:
- Drizzle with Ganache: Melt some chocolate with heavy cream and drizzle it over the top for an elegant finish.
- Chopped Peanuts or Mini Peanut Butter Cups: Decorate the edges or top of the cake with chopped peanuts or small peanut butter cups for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Pair slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
A Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. This allows the frosting to hold its shape while keeping the cake soft and moist. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to make clean, smooth cuts when serving.
Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
- Layered Presentation: If you want a more striking presentation, you can use a piping bag to create beautiful swirls of frosting between the cake layers.
- Chocolate Drip: Add a dramatic flair by allowing a chocolate ganache to drip down the sides of the cake.
- Top with Candies: Add Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or other peanut butter candies on top for a playful, candy-inspired presentation.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe Tips
Here are some pro tips for making the perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake every time:
- Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Frost the cake on the day of serving for maximum freshness.
- Frosting Consistency: If your peanut butter frosting is too thick, add a little more cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Refrigerate Before Cutting: Chilling the cake for 15-20 minutes before cutting will give you cleaner slices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chunky peanut butter for the frosting?
Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer a bit more texture in your frosting. However, creamy peanut butter tends to give a smoother finish.
How should I store a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
Store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to soften.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers by wrapping them in plastic wrap and storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them completely before frosting.
Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for cupcakes. Simply divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Conclusion
There you have it—your complete guide to making the perfect Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake! This rich, indulgent dessert is perfect for any occasion, and with these step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this unforgettable dessert!
PrintHomemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
This homemade chocolate peanut butter cake combines moist chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter frosting for a rich, indulgent dessert. Featuring simple ingredients like cocoa powder, peanut butter, and butter, this cake is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Follow the step-by-step instructions to create a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Boiling water
- Creamy peanut butter
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pans.
- Combine dry ingredients in one bowl.
- In another bowl, mix sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then stir in boiling water.
- Pour the batter into the pans and bake.
- Prepare the peanut butter frosting by beating peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar.
- Layer the cakes with frosting, then cover the outside and top with more frosting.
- Chill and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cake cools completely before frosting.
- Add chocolate ganache on top for extra indulgence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 320mg
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