Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

This Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache. It’s the ultimate treat for any peanut butter and chocolate lover, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for deeper flavor)

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tbsp heavy cream (or milk, as needed)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

For Garnish:

• Chopped peanuts
• Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
• Peanut butter drizzle (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the Chocolate Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line the bottoms with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
• Gradually add the boiling water (or hot coffee), mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin—this is normal.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:

• In a medium-sized bowl, beat the peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add in the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the filling reaches a spreadable consistency (you want it thick but soft enough to spread easily).
• Set aside.

3. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

• Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
• In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
• Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to melt. Stir until smooth and glossy.
• Let the ganache cool slightly before using (it should be pourable but not too runny).

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
• Spread a thick layer of the peanut butter filling on top of the first cake layer.
• Place the second cake layer on top, pressing down gently.
• Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful effect.

5. Garnish:

• Sprinkle the top of the cake with chopped peanuts, chocolate shavings, or mini chocolate chips.
• Optional: Drizzle extra peanut butter over the top for an extra peanut butter punch!

6. Serve:

• Let the cake sit for a few minutes to allow the ganache to set slightly, then slice and serve!

Tips:

• For Extra Moisture: You can substitute buttermilk for regular milk in the cake for an extra tender texture.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cake layers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days before assembling.
• Peanut Butter Drizzle: For an extra touch, warm up some peanut butter in the microwave and drizzle it over the cake once it’s assembled.

This Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is a perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and smooth ganache. Every bite is indulgent and packed with flavor—your guests will be asking for seconds!