There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the creamy, slightly salty sweetness of peanut butter. From school lunch sandwiches to late-night spoonfuls straight from the jar, peanut butter holds a special place in the hearts of many. But perhaps one of the most underrated uses for this pantry staple is in baking—specifically, in the form of a peanut butter cake.
Peanut butter cake is a warm, indulgent dessert that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. It combines the nutty richness of peanut butter with the soft, fluffy texture of a well-made cake. Whether you're baking for a celebration or simply craving something sweet, a peanut butter cake is sure to satisfy.
A Brief History of Peanut Butter in Baking
Peanut butter has long been a staple ingredient in American kitchens, having risen to prominence in the early 20th century. It gained popularity during wartime for its protein content and long shelf life, and quickly found its way into sweet treats. By the 1930s and 1940s, cookbooks featured recipes for peanut butter cookies, pies, and yes, cakes.
Though less common than chocolate or vanilla cakes, peanut butter cake has endured as a beloved dessert in Southern cuisine and among peanut butter enthusiasts. Its dense, moist crumb and bold flavor make it an excellent base for experimentation—frosted or unfrosted, layered or simple.
Classic Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Let’s dive into a classic, straightforward peanut butter cake recipe that’s easy to follow but rich in flavor. This version makes a single-layer cake perfect for everyday enjoyment but can also be doubled for a showstopping layer cake.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
For the frosting (optional but delicious):
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8x8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
3. Cream the Fats
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and well combined. Add the sugar and beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to a dense cake.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
7. Cool
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Frosting (Optional)
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the peanut butter and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until well combined. Add the vanilla and milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
9. Frost and Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly across the top. Cut into slices and serve!
Variations and Additions
The basic peanut butter cake is a canvas for many creative additions. Here are some popular variations to customize your dessert:
1. Chocolate-Peanut Butter Combo
Peanut butter and chocolate are a classic duo. You can:
- Add chocolate chips to the batter.
- Top the cake with a rich chocolate ganache.
- Frost the cake with a chocolate buttercream instead of peanut butter frosting.
2. Banana and Peanut Butter
Add 1 mashed banana to the batter for a moist, naturally sweet twist. It pairs beautifully with peanut butter and gives the cake a denser, more banana bread-like texture.
3. Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake
After the cake cools, slice it in half horizontally and spread your favorite jam (like strawberry or raspberry) in the middle. Frost the top with peanut butter frosting for a nostalgic, sandwich-inspired dessert.
4. Layered Celebration Cake
Double the recipe and bake in two round pans. Frost between the layers and around the cake. Add chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for crunch and decoration.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cake
Even simple recipes can benefit from a few insider tips:
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Cold butter or eggs can lead to a lumpy batter and uneven texture. Allow all dairy ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing activates the gluten in flour, which can make your cake tough instead of soft and tender. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated.
Check for Doneness
Use a toothpick or cake tester. Insert it into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
Let It Cool Completely Before Frosting
Warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Make sure the cake is fully cooled to room temperature before applying any frosting.
Serving and Storage
Peanut butter cake is versatile—it can be served warm (without frosting) or cold with a rich layer of frosting. It pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, hot coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
To store:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Lasts up to 5 days when covered tightly.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.
Peanut Butter Cake for Special Diets
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients (like baking powder) are certified gluten-free.
Vegan Variation
- Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
- Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk (like almond or soy milk).
- Ensure your peanut butter is free from animal-based additives.
Lower Sugar Option
Use natural peanut butter (with no added sugar) and reduce the sugar in the batter to ¾ cup or even ½ cup if you prefer a more subtly sweet cake.
Conclusion: A Simple Pleasure Worth Baking
Peanut butter cake may not be as flashy as a towering chocolate truffle cake or as elegant as a lemon chiffon, but it offers something arguably better—comfort, familiarity, and heartwarming flavor. It’s a cake that brings people together, whether shared over a casual family dinner or wrapped up as a sweet gift for a friend.
By mastering this simple yet satisfying dessert, you’re not just baking a cake—you’re tapping into a tradition of cozy, homemade goodness that celebrates the joy of sharing something delicious.
So go ahead, preheat your oven, grab that jar of peanut butter, and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of peanut butter bliss.