Peanut Butter Cake

Peanut Butter Cake is a rich, moist dessert bursting with nutty flavor and topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, this old-fashioned treat is simple to make and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether for birthdays, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this cake is a showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with real peanut butter flavor
• Incredibly moist and tender texture
• Easy to make from scratch
• Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved
• Delicious with or without frosting
• Great for birthdays, bake sales, and family gatherings
• Can be made as a sheet cake or layered
• Stores well and tastes even better the next day
• Customizable with chocolate, jam, or banana add-ins
• Comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Creamy peanut butter
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or buttermilk

For the peanut butter frosting (optional but recommended):

• Unsalted butter
• Creamy peanut butter
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk (to thin, as needed)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch round pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet, alternating with milk or buttermilk. Stir just until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cake cool completely before frosting.

For the frosting:

1. Cream butter and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 12–16 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Frosting/Assembly Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55–60 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips or a chocolate ganache drizzle
• Layer with jam for a PB&J cake twist
• Use chunky peanut butter for added texture
• Swap milk for buttermilk for a richer crumb
• Top with chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for crunch
• Add banana slices between layers for a banana-peanut combo

storage/reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
To serve from frozen, thaw at room temperature.
No reheating is necessary unless you want a warm slice—microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but make sure it’s well-mixed and not too oily or dry, as this can affect texture.

Can I make this cake without frosting?

Yes, the cake is delicious on its own or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

How do I make this cake into cupcakes?

Pour batter into lined cupcake tins and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I use a boxed cake mix as a base?

Yes, you can start with a yellow or white boxed mix and add peanut butter to the batter.

What kind of milk works best?

Whole milk or buttermilk both work great—use buttermilk for a richer, tangier flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but check your other ingredients for cross-contamination.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. Wrap slices well and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Avoid overbaking and store it tightly covered to retain moisture.

Can I make this a layer cake?

Yes, just divide the batter between two round pans and layer with frosting or filling of your choice.

What pairs well with peanut butter cake?

Coffee, milk, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream are perfect companions.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cake is a classic comfort dessert that’s easy to love and even easier to make. With its rich, nutty flavor and creamy frosting, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a slice of nostalgic, homemade goodness.

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