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Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

4.9 from 11 reviews

A luscious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake featuring a moist homemade chocolate cake layered with creamy peanut butter frosting and finished with a decadent chocolate ganache drip. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers seeking an indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chocolate Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water or brewed coffee

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar, to desired consistency
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or milk, as needed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Ganache Drip

  • ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually combine the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined.
  2. Add Hot Liquid: Slowly pour in the hot water or brewed coffee, stirring carefully until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. The batter will be thin; this is expected and ensures a moist cake.
  3. Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans on a wire rack.
  4. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and pinch of salt. Incorporate heavy cream or milk as needed, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if needed. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Apply a crumb coat of frosting all around the cake and chill for 20 minutes to set.
  6. Final Frosting Layer: After chilling, generously frost the entire cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting, smoothing the sides and top as desired.
  7. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Drip: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat ½ cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
  8. Apply Ganache Drip: Let the ganache cool slightly but remain pourable. Use a spoon or a piping bag to gently drizzle the ganache around the edges of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Spread any remaining ganache over the top of the cake and smooth out if desired.
  9. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache before serving. Bring to room temperature before slicing for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute brewed coffee for hot water in the cake batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
  • Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
  • Adjust the powdered sugar in the frosting to your preferred sweetness and consistency.
  • Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake, chocolate cake, peanut butter frosting, chocolate ganache, homemade cake, peanut butter chocolate dessert