Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

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If you’re a peanut butter lover, prepare to fall head over heels for this rich and dreamy Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. This cake delivers a heavenly balance of nutty, sweet, and salty in every bite. The moist, fluffy layers are deeply infused with the flavor of roasted peanuts, and the frosting—oh, the frosting—is a smooth, creamy, and slightly salty peanut butter cloud that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake brings pure joy to the table.

Not only does this cake look stunning, with its golden hue and elegant piping, but the flavor will leave your guests talking long after the last crumb disappears. Crunchy peanut bits line the base and crown the top, adding just the right amount of texture to contrast with the creamy frosting. It’s indulgent but comforting—like a warm hug in dessert form. A true showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

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Ingredients for this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 ¾ cups light brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Optional Garnish:

• Crushed roasted peanuts for edges and topping
• Swirls of piped frosting for decoration

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Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure your cake releases easily and maintains a beautiful shape.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend ensures your cake rises evenly and has a tender crumb. Set aside for later.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugar

In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add the brown sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light in color and creamy.

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Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This step builds structure and infuses the cake with flavor.

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Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Add the sour cream last and mix just until everything is combined. The batter will be thick and rich—perfect for a dense, moist cake.

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Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Step 7: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low to avoid a sugar cloud. Stir in the vanilla and heavy cream and beat on high until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. Add more cream if a looser consistency is desired.

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Step 8: Assemble and Decorate

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Use a piping bag to decorate the top with swirls, and gently press crushed peanuts along the base and over the top if desired. Refrigerate briefly to set the frosting before serving.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting tasting fresh and fabulous, follow these easy storage tips:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to serve the cake within 1–2 days, it can be stored at room temperature in an airtight cake container. Just be sure your kitchen isn’t too warm, as the frosting is butter-based and can soften quickly.
• Refrigerator: For longer freshness (up to 5 days), refrigerate the cake. Wrap it loosely in plastic wrap or store it in a cake keeper. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezer: This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (frosted or unfrosted) tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice, Based on 12 Servings)

• Calories: ~610
• Total Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 340mg
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Sugar: 45g
• Protein: 9g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. Can I use natural peanut butter for this cake?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily or dry. The texture of the cake might be slightly denser with natural peanut butter.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic. Frost the next day for a fresh finish.

3. How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Try reducing the powdered sugar slightly and using a pinch of salt or a touch more peanut butter to balance the sweetness.

4. Can I use a different frosting?

Yes! Cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache also pairs beautifully with the nutty cake layers.

5. Is this recipe suitable for cupcakes?

Definitely. You can make about 24 cupcakes with this batter. Adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes.

6. Can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend, and double-check that your peanut butter is certified gluten-free.

7. What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tang and moisture.

8. Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped peanuts?

Yes, fold them into the batter before baking to add extra texture and bursts of flavor!

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