A Sweet Treat That Will Delight You
If you’re in the mood for something rich and delicious, this Chocolate & Peanut Butter Bar Cake will hit the spot. This cake combines layers of fudge brownie with a creamy peanut butter filling, all topped with a glossy ganache. It’s perfect for celebrations or just a special dessert at home.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Chocolate & Peanut Butter Bar Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! The combo of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic that everyone loves. The brownie base is rich and fudgy, while the peanut butter filling is light and fluffy. Plus, the chocolate ganache on top brings everything together in a sweet, dreamy way.
Crafting Your Chocolate & Peanut Butter Bar Cake
Ingredients
- 170 g butter
- 100 g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 5 g vanilla extract
- 60 g flour
- 30 g cocoa powder
- 2 g salt
- 450 g cream cheese, softened
- 200 g smooth peanut butter
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 5 g vanilla
- 360 g cold heavy cream
- 5 g instant vanilla pudding mix (optional)
- 200 g milk chocolate
- 100 g cream
- Peanut butter cups (for decoration)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line it with parchment paper. Melt the butter and chocolate together. Then, mix in the granulated and brown sugars. After that, add in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until everything is well blended. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Let it cool after baking.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and optional pudding mix. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Fold the whipped cream gently into the peanut butter mixture. Divide the filling into three equal parts.
- For assembling, spread one portion of the filling over the cooled brownie base. Place it in the freezer for 30 minutes. Repeat this for the remaining two layers, ensuring to freeze each time.
- To make the ganache, gently heat the milk chocolate and cream together until smooth. Once it has slightly thickened, pour it over the top layer of the cake and spread it evenly.
- Allow the cake to rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving. Once it’s set, remove it from the mold and decorate with peanut butter cups for an extra treat!
Enjoying Your Delightful Cake
When you’re ready to serve, slice the cake into generous portions. This cake is delightful when chilled and pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any cake left, cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Just be sure to keep it well-wrapped to maintain its flavor and texture!
Tips for a Perfect Cake
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Don’t skip the chilling steps; it helps the layers set properly.
- Experiment with different toppings—sprinkles or crushed nuts can add a fun twist.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? You can swap the smooth peanut butter for crunchy peanut butter for an added texture. You can also try adding a layer of banana slices between the brownie and filling for a delicious banana-peanut butter combo!
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional data depends on portion sizes, this cake is a treat meant for special occasions. Moderation is key to enjoying this decadent dessert!
Serving Ideas for Family
This cake is a great centerpiece for family gatherings or celebrations. Pair it with fresh fruit on the side for a pop of color and flavor. It’s also delightful with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Pairing Suggestions
Consider enjoying this cake with fresh berries or a warm cup of hot chocolate. A scoop of your favorite ice cream also makes for a fantastic pairing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese.
Chocolate & Peanut Butter Bar Cake
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 170 g butter Melted
- 100 g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 5 g vanilla extract
- 60 g flour
- 30 g cocoa powder
- 2 g salt
Peanut Butter Filling
- 450 g cream cheese, softened
- 200 g smooth peanut butter
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 5 g vanilla
- 5 g instant vanilla pudding mix Optional
- 360 g cold heavy cream
Chocolate Ganache
- 200 g milk chocolate
- 100 g cream
Decoration
- Peanut butter cups For decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter and chocolate together. Then, mix in the granulated and brown sugars.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Let it cool after baking.
Filling
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and optional pudding mix.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Fold the whipped cream gently into the peanut butter mixture.
- Divide the filling into three equal parts.
Assembly
- Spread one portion of the filling over the cooled brownie base. Place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Repeat this for the remaining two layers, freezing each time.
Ganache
- To make the ganache, heat the milk chocolate and cream together until smooth.
- Once it has slightly thickened, pour it over the top layer of the cake and spread it evenly.
Chill
- Allow the cake to rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Once it’s set, remove it from the mold and decorate with peanut butter cups.
