This Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is the perfect combination of rich, moist chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting. With layers of deep chocolate flavor and a smooth, nutty filling, this cake is a dream for any dessert lover. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this cake delivers a perfect balance of flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect flavor combination – The rich chocolate cake pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut butter frosting.
Moist and tender – The cake is soft and moist, making every bite satisfying.
Easy to make – Despite its elegant appearance, this cake is simple to prepare.
Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a weekend treat, this cake fits the bill.
Customizable – You can adjust the frosting, add toppings, or even make it gluten-free.

Ingredients

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

For the chocolate cake:

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Whole milk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Boiling water or hot coffee

For the peanut butter frosting:

Unsalted butter
Creamy peanut butter
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract
Salt

For decoration (optional):

Chocolate ganache
Chopped peanuts
Mini peanut butter cups

Directions

Prepare the cake batter – Preheat the oven and grease your cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugars, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, then stir in the hot coffee or boiling water.
Bake the cakes – Divide the batter evenly between cake pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
Make the peanut butter frosting – Beat the butter and peanut butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in heavy cream, vanilla, and salt until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assemble the cake – Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake.
Decorate – Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake and top with chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter cups for extra flavor.
Chill and serve – Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 slices
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling and Assembly Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Gluten-free option – Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Dairy-free version – Substitute milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives.
Extra chocolate flavor – Add chocolate chips to the cake batter.
Crunchy texture – Mix crushed peanuts into the frosting.
Salted caramel twist – Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake for added sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Room temperature – Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing – Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

How do I make the cake extra moist?

Adding hot coffee or boiling water to the batter enhances the chocolate flavor and keeps the cake moist.

Can I use natural peanut butter for the frosting?

It is best to use creamy peanut butter, as natural peanut butter can make the frosting too oily or runny.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them tightly wrapped. Frost the cake before serving.

What’s the best way to frost the cake smoothly?

Chill the cake layers before frosting, and use an offset spatula for even spreading.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting also pair well with this cake.

How can I prevent my cake from sticking to the pans?

Grease and line your cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes, you can use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer as a substitute.

How do I make the ganache drizzle?

Melt chocolate with heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.

What’s the best way to cut a layer cake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat cuts.

Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, you can bake this as a sheet cake or cupcakes—just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is a decadent dessert that is sure to impress. The rich chocolate cake, paired with a smooth and creamy peanut butter frosting, creates a flavor combination that is simply irresistible. Whether for a celebration or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is a must-try. Enjoy every bite!

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This Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is the ultimate dessert, featuring moist chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter frosting between each layer.