Indulge in the rich, velvety layers of a bittersweet chocolate peanut butter cake that's both sweet and savory. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. Follow these detailed steps and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter!
#### Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder (use this for a more bitter flavor)
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- â…” cup creamy peanut butter (look for natural varieties without added sugars)
- 1 cup hot water
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
#### Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Baking pans (9-inch round is ideal)
- Spatula
- Whisk
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
##### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with cooking spray or butter, then line the bottom with parchment paper.
##### Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
##### Step 3: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and peanut butter in another large bowl until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
##### Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the sugar to the butter-peanut butter mixture. Beat well for another 1-2 minutes to incorporate fully. Then mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
##### Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add half of the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, followed by a quarter of the hot water. Repeat this process with the remaining dry ingredients and water. Be careful not to overmix; stop once everything is just combined (about 2-3 minutes).
##### Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Stir in the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
##### Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
##### Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pans and place on a wire rack to fully cool before serving. Enjoy with a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of melted chocolate!
#### Tips and Variations
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of bittersweet.
- Serve this cake at room temperature for the best texture.
- Experiment with adding chopped peanuts on top just before baking for added crunch.
By following these steps, you'll create an exquisite bittersweet chocolate peanut butter cake that's both rich and satisfying. Perfect any time you need a sweet treat!