Homemade chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting
Chocolate Cake with Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting
This Chocolate Cake with Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting is rich, chocolatey, and absolutely decadent!
Some days just call for a nice big, fat piece of chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting, don’t they? How about we make today THAT day? Deal?
My favorite chocolate cake of all time is from a quaint tavern called McNally’s in my husband Tom’s hometown of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. It’s a small place, but they serve the most amazing food. The soups, the sandwiches, the desserts… I think I gain five pounds just thinking about this place. They have this famous sandwich called the “Schmitter.” It’s crazy good, but that story is for another day. Today, let’s focus on this delicious cake. As I mentioned, it’s my favorite chocolate cake ever. I kid you not. When Tom and I order it, it’s like the waitress sets it down, turns her back, and boom—it’s gone. Not a crumb left. McNally’s makes theirs with chocolate buttercream frosting and a hint of coffee flavor, which I absolutely love, but today, we’re mixing things up with peanut butter frosting and some chocolate curls on top. Trust me, it’s a winner and a refreshing change from the usual double chocolate combo.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the texture is soft and moist, thanks to the applesauce. Plus, it’s easy to make with a few simple ingredients!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- 13×9-inch baking dish
- Small bowl
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 package devil’s food cake mix (regular size)
- 1 cup water
- 3 eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat creamy peanut butter
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup cold fat-free milk
- 1 package (1.4 ounces) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat creamy peanut butter
- 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen reduced-fat whipped topping, thawed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, eggs, and applesauce. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Transfer the batter to a 13×9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Immediately drop small amounts of peanut butter over the hot cake; return to the oven for 1 minute. Carefully spread the peanut butter over the cake. Cool on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, in a small bowl, whisk the milk and pudding mix for 1 minute.
- In another small bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually beat in the pudding mixture.
- Beat in half of the whipped topping, then fold in the remaining whipped topping. Frost the cake.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Use a serrated knife to create chocolate curls for an elegant decoration.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try adding a layer of sliced bananas between the cake and frosting for a fruity twist. You can also sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any chocolate cake mix you prefer. Just follow the package instructions for baking.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it before serving.
Can I use regular cream cheese and peanut butter?
Yes, but it will increase the calorie and fat content of the cake.
Conclusion
There you have it—a deliciously rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter frosting that’s sure to delight any crowd. Give this recipe a try and let the flavors take you on a sweet adventure. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!
