This Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With moist chocolate cake layers, creamy peanut butter frosting, and a luscious chocolate ganache, each slice is a heavenly combination of flavors. Topped with Reese’s candies for an extra treat, this cake is a showstopper for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups (228g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (414g) sugar
- 3/4 cup (85g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) hot water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 2 cups (448g) salted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups (350g) peanut butter
- 9 cups (1035g) powdered sugar
- 6–7 tbsp (90-105ml) water or milk
- 6 Reese’s, chopped
For the Chocolate Ganache and Topping:
- 6 oz (1 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
- 8 Reese’s, cut in half
- Crumbled Reese’s for garnish
Instructions:
Chocolate Cake Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Prepare three 8-inch cake pans with non-stick baking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Slowly add the hot water, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 22-25 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Peanut Butter Frosting:
- Beat the butter and peanut butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with water or milk, until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake:
- Level the cake layers if necessary. Place the first layer on a serving plate and spread with frosting. Sprinkle chopped Reese’s on top.
- Repeat with the next layer. Once all layers are stacked, apply a thin crumb coat around the cake. Frost the top and sides smoothly.
- For a decorative touch, create stripes around the cake using an offset spatula.
Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in the microwave until boiling, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth.
- Drizzle the ganache around the edges and over the top of the cake. Decorate with halved Reese’s and crumbled pieces on top.
Serve:
Let the cake sit at room temperature before serving. Enjoy this rich, peanut butter-chocolate masterpiece within 3-4 days.
Prep Time: 45 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes + chilling
Kcal: 600 kcal per slice | Servings: 12-14 slices
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is a decadent delight that’s sure to impress at any celebration. Enjoy every rich, creamy bite! 🍫🥜🎂