Ingredients:
For the chocolate cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the peanut butter cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and one 9-inch springform pan.
For the chocolate cake:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined (the batter will be thin).
- Pour the batter into the prepared round cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
For the peanut butter cheesecake layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge to loosen and remove the outer ring. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
For the frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Add the heavy cream and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
To assemble:
- Place one layer of the chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top. Place the peanut butter cheesecake layer on top of the frosted cake layer. Spread another thin layer of frosting on top of the cheesecake layer, then top with the second chocolate cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours
Kcal: 750 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
FAQs:
- What is a Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cake? A Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cake is a rich dessert combining layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter cheesecake. It’s typically covered in a luscious chocolate ganache or frosting, making it a luxurious treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.
- How do you make a Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cake from scratch? To make this cake from scratch, you’ll need to prepare a chocolate cake batter and a peanut butter cheesecake batter separately. Bake the cheesecake layer first, then bake the chocolate cake layers. Once cooled, assemble the cake by stacking the layers, then cover it with chocolate ganache or frosting. Refrigerate to set before serving.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Bake the cake and cheesecake layers up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble and frost the cake the day before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
- How should I store a Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cake? Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator, covered, to keep it fresh. It can be stored for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake (either whole or in slices) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I make a gluten-free version of this cake? Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour for the chocolate cake layers and ensuring all other ingredients (like peanut butter and chocolate) are gluten-free. There are many gluten-free flour blends available that work well in baking. Be sure to follow a gluten-free cheesecake recipe for the best results.