There’s a certain comfort that comes from the simple pleasure of baking, and it often stems from pouring your heart into a recipe that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Picture this: a golden, moist cake emerging from the oven, its delightful aroma wrapping around you like a warm hug. This Peanut Butter Cake does just that—it combines rich peanut butter with sweet, buttery goodness to create a dessert that is both indulgent and nostalgic.
While I was rummaging through my pantry one afternoon, searching for a way to elevate my baking game, I stumbled upon an unopened jar of peanut butter. A lightbulb moment struck! A quick glance at my pantry ingredients revealed the perfect combination for a cake that wouldn’t just satisfy my sweet tooth but also reignite my love for homemade goodness. This recipe is not only forgiving but also brings together flavors that complement each other beautifully, making it an instant hit for gatherings or cozy nights in.
So, if you’re ready to whisk away the fast food blues and delight your family or friends with an easy-bake masterpiece, let’s dive into this Peanut Butter Cake recipe that promises joy in every slice!
Why are Peanut Butter Brownies a must-try?
Decadent flavors: The combination of rich peanut butter and buttery sweetness creates a cake that feels indulgent yet comforting—perfect for any occasion.
Easy baking: With a straightforward recipe, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence and flair.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake will impress and satisfy everyone who tries it.
Versatile delight: Pair it with ice cream or enjoy it on its own, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire!
If you’re seeking more delicious uses for peanut butter, check out my recipe for Peanut Butter Cookies!
Peanut Butter Brownies Ingredients
For the Cake
• Peanut Butter – 1 cup of your favorite creamy or crunchy variety provides rich, nutty flavor.
• Butter – 11 tablespoons, softened – This adds moisture and ensures a tender texture.
• Light Brown Sugar – 1 cup – Enhances the sweetness while contributing to a richer, caramel-like flavor.
• Sugar – 1 ⅓ cups – For that classic sweetness that balances the peanut butter.
• Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons – A touch of vanilla elevates the cake’s flavor profile beautifully.
• Eggs – 4 large, at room temperature – Essential for binding the ingredients and adding fluffiness.
• Baking Powder – 2 teaspoons – This helps the cake rise and achieve that delightful texture.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon – A pinch balances the sweetness and highlights the peanut butter’s flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups – The base for this cake, providing structure and stability.
Feel free to explore the wonderful versatility of this Peanut Butter Brownies recipe as you whip up a treat that’s sure to melt hearts!
How to Make Peanut Butter Cake
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your cake releases easily once baked and is perfectly golden on the edges.
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Cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each one is fully blended into the batter before adding the next. You want the batter to be creamy and well-combined.
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Sift in the baking powder, salt, and flour; then mix just until smooth to avoid overworking the batter. The texture should be thick and velvety.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. This ensures that the cake bakes uniformly, leading to a delightful texture throughout.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness by gently pressing the top; it should spring back when perfectly baked. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Optional: Top with a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Brownies
- Quality Peanut Butter: Use a high-quality creamy or crunchy peanut butter. Natural peanut butter without added sugars yields a more authentic flavor.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the flour just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light, moist cake you desire.
- Cooling Time: Let your Peanut Butter Cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.
- Chill Before Serving: For a rich experience, chill your cake before serving. The flavors meld beautifully, and it’s a real treat when served slightly cold!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious, moist texture.
Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices of Peanut Butter Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a scrumptious treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Brownies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the cake’s delightful texture, make sure the container is tightly sealed to avoid any drying out. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your greased pan and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven. This will ensure the brownies rise perfectly and remain just as delicious as if made fresh on the day of serving. Enjoy the ease of meal prep with these indulgent treats!
Peanut Butter Brownies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with flavors and textures, creating your own twist on this indulgent dessert!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative.
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Nut-Free: Use sunbutter or soy nut butter as a creamy replacement to accommodate nut allergies while keeping the cake scrumptious.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chunks for a gooey, luscious chocolate surprise in every bite!
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Oatmeal Infusion: Add 1 cup of rolled oats to add texture and a wholesome feel to this delightful treat.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking for a rich, sweet contrast that elevates your dessert experience.
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Vegan Option: Swap eggs with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use vegan butter for a luscious, inclusive treat everyone can enjoy!
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Banana Boost: Incorporate 1 mashed ripe banana for a subtle flavor, added moisture, and a naturally sweet touch.
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Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm hint of spice that beautifully complements the peanut butter.
Each variation brings its own charm, allowing you to create a personalized experience that will leave everyone reaching for another slice! Enjoy the creativity!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cake?
Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich slice of peanut butter cake, paired with delightful sides that complement its nutty sweetness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the cake’s richness, offering a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. It’s the ultimate pairing for indulgence!
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a silky chocolate ganache on top enhances the flavor profile, creating a decadent chocolate-peanut butter experience that chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist.
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Fresh Strawberries: The juiciness and acidity of fresh strawberries cut through the sweetness, creating a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite of cake.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds a luscious layer of sweetness that enhances the cake’s flavors, making every mouthful feel like a cozy hug.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee provides a rich, earthy backdrop that complements the cake’s nutty notes, making it an ideal dessert for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a smooth finish, emphasizing the cake’s texture while making each bite feel even more indulgent.
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Nut Milkshake: A creamy peanut butter and banana milkshake ties in the cake flavors and offers a fun, nostalgic treat for both kids and adults alike.
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Chocolate Muffins: If you’re in the mood for a mini dessert buffet, serving chocolate muffins alongside the peanut butter cake will create an irresistible sweet spread!
Enjoy building the perfect dessert experience around your decadent peanut butter cake!
Peanut Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my peanut butter is ripe for baking?
Absolutely! The best peanut butter for baking is the creamy or crunchy kind, free from added sugars and hydrogenated oils. Look for natural varieties that have a smooth, pourable consistency, and avoid peanut butter with dark spots all over or an off smell, as those may indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Peanut Butter Cake?
The more the merrier! Store your Peanut Butter Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, where it will stay fresh for about a week. Just let it reach room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor!
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the cake into portions, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. After that, wrap them again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the microwave for a delightful treat!
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Very common! If your Peanut Butter Cake sinks, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not properly incorporating the eggs. To help prevent this, mix only until combined and check that your ingredients are at room temperature for better emulsification. Don’t worry too much; it’s still delicious even if it’s not perfect!
Is this Peanut Butter Cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that this Peanut Butter Cake contains peanuts, so it’s not safe for those with nut allergies. For a nut-free alternative, you can experiment with sun butter or a seed butter made from sunflower seeds, although the flavor will vary.
Can I use a different type of flour if I want to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free Peanut Butter Cake, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the cake’s lovely texture. Make sure to check the blend’s properties to adjust the liquid ingredients if necessary!
Decadent Peanut Butter Brownies That Will Melt Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13" baking pan.
- Cream together peanut butter, softened butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time until fully blended.
- Sift in baking powder, salt, and flour; mix just until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.