Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering? This Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the creamy, salty punch of peanut butter, making it a must-try for all dessert lovers. Below is a detailed recipe to guide you through creating this delectable treat.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (228g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (414g) sugar
• 3/4 cup (85g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water

Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 2 cups (448g) salted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups (350g) peanut butter
• 9 cups (1035g) powdered sugar
• 6–7 tbsp (90-105ml) water or milk
• 6 Reese’s, chopped

Chocolate Ganache and Topping:

• 6 oz (1 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
• 8 Reese’s, cut in half
• Additional Reese’s, crumbled for garnish

Directions

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans with non-stick baking spray and parchment paper at the bottom.
2. In a large mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add hot water, mixing on low speed, and scrape the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 22-25 minutes. Allow the cakes to cool on a wire rack.

To Make the Frosting:

1. In a mixer, beat the butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with water or milk, to reach your desired consistency.

To Build the Cake:

1. Level the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife.
2. Place the first layer on a plate, spread generously with frosting, and sprinkle with chopped Reese’s.
3. Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with a smooth layer of frosting.

For the Ganache:

1. Microwave the cream until it begins to boil. Pour it over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes. Whisk until smooth.
2. Drizzle the ganache over the completed cake and decorate with Reese’s halves and crumbles.

Final Touches:

• Chill the cake until the ganache sets. For the best flavor, serve the cake at room temperature.

Nutritional Info:

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus cooling and setting time)
• Calories: 780 per serving
• Servings: 12

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight to your taste buds. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or any special occasion, this cake will surely steal the show! Enjoy baking and even more, enjoy devouring this sumptuous treat!

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