Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
This indulgent cake combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter for a heavenly dessert experience.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 450kcal
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Light and airy, providing structure to your cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetness that balances the cocoa’s rich depth.
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adding an earthy, chocolaty richness perfect for decadence.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda The leavening agent that ensures your cake rises beautifully.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt A pinch to enhance flavors.
- 1 cup water Key for achieving the perfect batter consistency.
- 0.33 cup vegetable oil Imparts moistness, creating a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar Helps activate the baking soda and adds to the cake’s tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses warmth and a fragrant backdrop.
For the peanut butter filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter Rich and luscious, creating a gooey, dream-like layer.
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar Sweetness to complement the peanut butter filling.
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened For an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the nutty essence of the peanut butter.
For the ganache and toppings
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Pure decadence, perfect for melting.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream A silky component to create the ganache.
- Chopped peanuts For a delightful crunch and added flavor contrast.
- Mini chocolate chips Sprinkled on top for extra sweetness and texture.
- Peanut butter cups For an indulgent final touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gently add the water along with vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract for the filling.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture onto the cake batter and swirl gently with a knife.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan.
Ganache Preparation
- Prepare the ganache by heating the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the cooled cake and decorate with chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, and peanut butter cups.
Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for smoother batter. Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay. Keep an eye on the cake while baking and cover with foil if it gets too dark.