Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Cake!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Cake is an irresistible, dreamy dessert that combines layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter frosting, and rich chocolate ganache. With each bite, you get a perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter—making it a true dream for lovers of this iconic flavor combination!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup heavy cream (more if needed for consistency)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1/2 cup heavy cream
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

For Garnish (Optional):

Chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups
Crushed chocolate cookies
Chocolate shavings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and vegetable oil until smooth and combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Slowly add the boiling water (or coffee), stirring until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, which is normal.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Add more cream if needed for desired texture.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Stir in the butter for extra shine, if desired. Allow the ganache to cool slightly to thicken.

4. Assemble the Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Cake:

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter.
Spread a generous amount of peanut butter frosting over the top of the first layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently.
Spread a thick layer of peanut butter frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake, smoothing it out evenly.

5. Top with Ganache and Garnish:

Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
Garnish with chopped peanuts, peanut butter cups, or crushed chocolate cookies for an added touch of texture and flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice and serve the Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Cake chilled or at room temperature for a rich, creamy dessert that’s a perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter!

Tips:

For an extra decadent cake, you can add a layer of crushed peanut butter cups or chocolate chips between the cake layers.
If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate ganache or add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the cake batter.
To make the frosting fluffier, you can beat in a bit more heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Cake is a dream come true for anyone who loves the perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter. With each layer, it’s pure indulgence—rich, creamy, and utterly delicious!