1. Introduction

Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is the kind of dessert that brings together two timeless flavors into one unforgettable bite. The rich cocoa notes paired with creamy peanut butter create a flavor combination that’s both nostalgic and luxurious. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just craving a decadent treat, this cake promises to steal the spotlight.

This dessert has grown in popularity thanks to its moist texture, balanced sweetness, and irresistible filling. It’s frequently seen at birthdays, potlucks, and holiday tables, where it never fails to impress. And it’s not just about looks—every forkful delivers a perfect harmony of chocolate richness and nutty creaminess.

In this article, you’ll discover a detailed step-by-step guide to making the perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake, along with tips on ingredients, technique, and presentation. From batter to ganache, we’ve got you covered with expert-level baking advice.

2. Ingredients Overview

To create a show-stopping Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake, you’ll need quality ingredients for each layer:

Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
• 2 tsp baking powder, 1½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk, ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water (for moisture and blooming cocoa)

Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup heavy cream

Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream

Use high-quality cocoa and real vanilla extract for deeper flavor. If you’re unsure about the right chocolate to choose, this guide to chocolate types breaks it down clearly. For gluten-free versions, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Here’s how to achieve a bakery-style Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake at home:

Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans.
• In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
• Carefully stir in boiling water. The batter will be thin—that’s the secret to moistness.

Bake the Layers

• Divide the batter evenly into the pans.
• Bake for 30–35 minutes. Use a toothpick test to ensure doneness.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10–15 minutes, then remove to wire racks.

Cool and Level

• Once fully cooled, use a serrated knife or cake leveler to even out the tops if needed.
• A flat surface ensures stability when layering.

Pro Tips for Moist Cake

• Don’t overmix; it can make the cake dense.
• Want to improve your technique? These cake baking tips are invaluable.

4. Crafting the Peanut Butter Filling

The filling is where the peanut butter magic happens:

• In a large bowl, beat creamy peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and fluffy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on medium speed. This ensures the texture is airy, not gritty.
• Pour in the heavy cream and beat until the filling becomes light and spreadable.

To adjust the texture, add more cream for smoothness or more sugar for a firmer consistency. If you’re going for extra indulgence, fold in chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips. This gives the filling a delightful crunch while complementing the soft layers.

Tip: Use room-temperature butter and peanut butter for easier mixing and optimal smoothness. Keep in mind that natural peanut butter may cause the filling to separate, so stick with a stabilized brand for best results.

5. Preparing the Chocolate Ganache

Ganache is more than just a topping—it’s a silky finish that elevates the entire dessert.

• In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
• Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
• Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Choosing the right chocolate is essential. Aim for chips or bars that are at least 60% cocoa for deep flavor without bitterness. For more tips on this, check out King Arthur Baking’s guide on how to make ganache.

Want a pourable glaze? Use it immediately. Prefer a whipped ganache? Chill it, then beat with a mixer for a fluffier texture. When applying, let the ganache drip naturally over the edges or use a spatula for an even coat.

This step brings both visual appeal and a rich mouthfeel to your cake—don’t skip it!

6. Assembling the Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

Once your cake layers and fillings are ready, it’s time to build the ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake. Start by placing one completely cooled cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. For better stability, you can secure it with a small dab of peanut butter filling underneath.

• Spread a generous, even layer of the peanut butter filling on top of the first cake. Use an offset spatula to smooth it out.
• Gently place the second cake layer on top, pressing down slightly to secure.
• Pour the prepared chocolate ganache over the top. Let it flow over the edges naturally for a dramatic drip effect.

For a flawless finish, you can chill the cake for 10–15 minutes before applying a second ganache coat or smoothing the top. If your ganache seems too thick, refer to this guide on making ganache to adjust the consistency.

Decorating is where you can get creative:

• Pipe swirls of peanut butter frosting around the top
• Add halved peanut butter cups or drizzle caramel
• Top with chocolate shavings or crushed roasted peanuts

This final touch not only enhances the look but also adds texture and flavor.

7. Serving and Storage Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Before slicing, let the cake rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This softens the ganache slightly and ensures clean cuts. Use a warm knife (dip in hot water and wipe dry) for neat slices.

To store, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it ideal for make-ahead desserts.

Planning for an event? You can bake and freeze the individual layers ahead of time. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw completely before assembling. Assembling a day in advance also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

8. Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake Nutrition Facts

A slice of Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake packs approximately 530 calories per serving. Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown:

• Fat: ~30g (includes saturated and unsaturated fats)
• Carbohydrates: ~60g
• Protein: ~6g
• Sugar: ~45g
• Cholesterol: ~60mg
• Sodium: ~250mg

This dessert is rich and indulgent, so portion control is key. For dietary concerns, such as low sugar or dairy-free diets, consider alternative ingredients like sugar substitutes or plant-based creams. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your needs while maintaining flavor.

9. Customizing Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

The classic recipe is amazing, but there are endless ways to customize your layer cake to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

• Use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• For vegan versions, swap eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream.
• Choose dairy-free chocolate chips and milk alternatives like oat or almond milk.

Flavor Boosts

• Add sliced bananas between the layers for a choco-banana twist.
• Drizzle salted caramel over the ganache for an added sweet-salty hit.
• Mix espresso powder into the cake batter for a subtle mocha flavor.

Alternative Formats

• Bake the batter in muffin tins to create chocolate peanut butter cupcakes.
• Assemble a mini two-layer cake using 6-inch pans for smaller gatherings.
• Create cake jars layered with filling and ganache for fun, portable treats.

These variations add versatility, allowing you to enjoy the essence of this cake in multiple ways.

10. FAQs About Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Natural peanut butter can separate and lead to a grainy or oily filling. For best results, stick with commercial creamy peanut butter to ensure smoothness and stability.

How do I prevent my cake layers from doming?
Use bake-even strips or lower the oven temperature slightly. Also, avoid overmixing, which can trap excess air. Refer to Joy of Baking’s cake tips for more helpful techniques.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for 4–5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in parchment and foil.

Can I freeze the assembled cake?
Yes, wrap the entire cake in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How can I make the ganache thicker or thinner?
To thicken, add more chocolate; to thin, add more warm cream. Follow this ganache guide for the perfect consistency every time.

Conclusion

Whether you’re baking it for a birthday, holiday, or simply craving an indulgent chocolate peanut butter dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its moist layers, creamy filling, and silky ganache, it delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation—every single time.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake: The Ultimate Indulgent Dessert

• Author: Sozan
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is an indulgent dessert featuring rich chocolate layers, a fluffy peanut butter filling, and smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for birthdays and celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• Peanut Butter Filling:
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Ganache:
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch pans.
2. Whisk dry ingredients. Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in boiling water. Divide batter and bake 30–35 minutes.
4. Cool completely before removing from pans.
5. Beat peanut butter and butter. Add powdered sugar and cream. Mix until fluffy.
6. Heat cream, pour over chocolate chips, let sit, and stir into ganache.
7. Layer cake with peanut butter filling. Pour ganache on top and let drip down sides.

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Notes

• Use high-quality cocoa for richer flavor.
• Let the cake rest at room temperature before slicing.
• Chill ganache slightly for a firmer topping.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 530
• Sugar: 45g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: chocolate peanut butter cake, layered dessert, homemade ganache, creamy peanut filling