Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, nostalgic, and irresistibly nutty, this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is exactly the treat you need. Loaded with rich peanut butter flavor in both the cake and the luscious frosting, this classic dessert offers a perfect balance of moist texture and sweet, creamy indulgence. It’s the kind of cake that takes you back to warm family kitchens, brightening any occasion with its homey charm and unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this cake are wonderfully straightforward, using pantry staples that come together to build that trademark peanut butter richness. Each element plays a crucial role, from the fluffy buttermilk-tinged batter to the creamy frosting that crowns the cake.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender crumb and structure.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leaveners help the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to both the cake and frosting.
• Creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that infuses every bite with nutty warmth.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: Give sweetness plus a hint of molasses depth from the brown sugar.
• Eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to the cake’s structure.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates the peanut butter flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tanginess to complement the peanut butter.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for the smooth, fluffy frosting texture.
• Milk: Thins out the frosting just enough for easy spreading without losing body.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake lifts out effortlessly once baked. This simple prep step makes a huge difference when it comes time to serve.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients create the perfect base that balances the moist richness of the peanut butter in the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars

Using a mixer, cream the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for a tender, airy cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next to keep the batter smooth. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, which accentuates the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Slowly add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with buttermilk in two parts, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This gentle folding method ensures a creamy batter that bakes up moist and evenly textured.

Step 6: Pour Batter and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The warm smell filling your kitchen at this point is a true sign of the deliciousness ahead.

Step 7: Cool the Cake Completely

Allow the cake to cool fully in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. Patience here prevents the frosting from melting and keeps everything neat and delightful.

Step 8: Make and Spread the Frosting

Cream together softened butter and peanut butter until smooth. Then gradually beat in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to spread. Smother this luscious topping over the cooled cake, smoothing it evenly for a perfect finish.

Step 9: Slice and Enjoy

Cut your cake into generous squares and get ready to enjoy every bite of this charming Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to everyone at the table.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, consider sprinkling chopped roasted peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the frosting. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a swirl of caramel sauce also adds a beautiful, tasty contrast to the peanut butter richness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds creaminess and temperature contrast. Fresh berries also cut through the richness nicely, offering a refreshing burst of flavor alongside each slice.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this classic cake into mini individual servings by baking it in muffin tins and frosting each cupcake. Alternatively, layer the cake with whipped cream and banana slices to create a peanut butter trifle that’s perfect for a potluck or party dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and keep that delicious frosting creamy and stable.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Once thawed, prepare and spread the peanut butter frosting just before serving for best results.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, let it come to room temperature first and then warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings out the flavors beautifully without melting the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may affect the texture of both the cake and frosting since it tends to be less smooth and more oily. For the best results, stick with creamy peanut butter to maintain that classic consistency.

Is buttermilk necessary for this recipe?

Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and helps tenderize the cake crumb, making it moist and fluffy. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic its effect.

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

Gradually add milk when mixing the frosting and stop once you reach a spreadable consistency. If the frosting becomes too soft, chill it for a bit to firm up before spreading it over the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but the peanut butter flavor will still shine beautifully.

What’s the best way to transport this cake to a party?

Use a cake carrier with a secure lid or place the cake on a sturdy plate and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it cool during transport to avoid frosting smudges and enjoy the smiles it brings upon arrival.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is a true gem that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it creates a cake that feels handmade with love. I can’t encourage you enough to try this recipe and experience the warm, nutty magic yourself—it’s pure joy with each forkful!

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