Heavenly Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake with Creamy Filling and Decadent Ganache Recipe
Heavenly Chocolate Peanut Butter is a decadent layered cake featuring moist chocolate cake, a creamy peanut butter and cream cheese filling, and a rich dark chocolate ganache topping finished with crunchy crushed peanuts. This indulgent dessert combines classic flavors that peanut butter and chocolate lovers will adore, perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a luscious treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared according to package instructions)
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
For the Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
For Topping:
- ½ cup crushed peanuts
- Optional: Chocolate bars or peanut butter cups for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Follow the instructions on your chocolate cake mix box to prepare the batter, then bake according to the package directions for two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
- Make Peanut Butter Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the filling is creamy and spreadable.
- Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of the peanut butter filling over the top. Place the second cake layer on top. Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle crushed peanuts over the ganache while it’s still soft. Optionally, decorate with chocolate bars or peanut butter cups for an extra indulgent touch.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let the ganache set and flavors meld before serving. Slice and enjoy your heavenly chocolate peanut butter cake!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling consistency.
- The ganache can be made ahead and refrigerated; gently rewarm before pouring over the cake.
- Use dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for a richer flavor contrast to the peanut butter.
- The crushed peanuts topping adds texture; you can toast them lightly for extra crunch and flavor.
- Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered tightly to maintain freshness.
Keywords: chocolate peanut butter cake, peanut butter filling, chocolate ganache, layered cake, dessert recipe, easy chocolate cake
