Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Cake – A Rich and Decadent Delight

Introduction

Satisfy your dessert cravings with this Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Cake. With indulgent layers of chocolate cake, a creamy caramel filling, and a crunchy peanut topping, this cake is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The luscious caramel drizzle and peanut butter add a unique richness, making every bite a true treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a decadent dessert, this cake will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water (or strong brewed coffee for deeper flavor)

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of sea salt

For the Peanut Butter Topping:

• 1 cup (120g) roasted peanuts, chopped
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• ½ cup (100g) caramel sauce (from the filling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the hot water (or coffee) and mix until the batter is well combined and smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden amber color.
2. Add the butter and stir until fully melted and smooth.
3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously (the mixture will bubble).
4. Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped peanuts with peanut butter and a few tablespoons of the cooled caramel sauce. Stir until well coated.
2. Set the peanut mixture aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first layer of chocolate cake on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of caramel filling over the top.
2. Add the second layer of cake and gently press it down.
3. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
4. Sprinkle the peanut butter topping evenly over the cake, allowing the peanuts to add a delightful crunch and flavor.

Pro Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs and milk are at room temperature to help the batter mix together smoothly.
• Perfectly Layered Cake: If the cakes are uneven, trim the tops with a serrated knife to make them level before stacking.
• Caramel Consistency: If your caramel thickens too much while cooling, simply reheat it gently to make it easier to drizzle over the cake.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this decadent cake with a side of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Pair with a rich glass of dessert wine, like a port or late-harvest Riesling, to balance the sweet flavors.
• This cake is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or whenever you’re in the mood for a truly indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Cake is the ultimate indulgence, offering a perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter flavors. Each layer is packed with rich textures, from the moist chocolate cake to the creamy caramel filling and crunchy peanut butter topping. Whether you’re celebrating an important occasion or enjoying a sweet treat, this cake will steal the spotlight every time. Try it today and enjoy every bite of this extraordinary dessert!