Peanut Butter and Jelly Cake Recipe evokes memories of childhood lunchboxes, carefree afternoons, and simple pleasures.
This recipe captures that essence beautifully, transforming the beloved sandwich into a delectable dessert.
Imagine moist, fluffy cake layers infused with rich peanut butter and a swirl of sweet, tangy jelly—it’s a delightful twist that pays homage to the classic flavor combination.
Creating this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cake Recipeis an opportunity to explore baking while reminiscing about the joys of youth. It’s a great way to introduce baking to children or to bond with friends in the kitchen.
So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to whip up a cake that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also spark a bit of nostalgia.
How To Prepare Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake Recipe?
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Serves: 12 people
Equipment Needed
- 2 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Knife or cake leveler
- Offset spatula for frosting
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar added)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Jelly Filling
- 1 cup of your favorite jelly or jam (strawberry, grape, or raspberry work well)
For the Peanut Butter Frosting
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency, and mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a layer of jelly evenly over the top of the first cake layer.
- Add a generous layer of peanut butter frosting over the jelly.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For a fun touch, you can drizzle additional jelly on top or sprinkle crushed peanuts around the base of the cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Note:
- Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If you want an even smoother finish, chill the cake in the fridge for 20 minutes after applying the first layer of frosting
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture! Just keep in mind that it may alter the consistency of the frosting slightly. If you prefer a smooth finish, consider using creamy peanut butter for the frosting.
What kind of jelly or jam works best?
While traditional flavors like grape and strawberry are popular choices, feel free to experiment with your favorites! Raspberry, apricot, or even homemade jams can add a unique twist to the cake.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warm climate, it’s best to refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cake Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories.
As you enjoy each slice, you’ll be reminded of those cherished moments of childhood, wrapped up in the comforting embrace of peanut butter and jelly.
The versatility of this cake means you can customize it for any occasion switching up the jelly flavors, adding chocolate, or even garnishing it with crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch.
So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, consider this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cake. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, evoking smiles and nostalgia with every forkful.
Don’t forget to share it with others, creating new memories while savoring the flavors of the past. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 2 (9-inch) round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Knife or cake leveler
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar added
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Jelly Filling
- 1 cup of your favorite jelly or jam strawberry, grape, or raspberry work well
For the Peanut Butter Frosting
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool the Cakes
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency, and mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a layer of jelly evenly over the top of the first cake layer.
- Add a generous layer of peanut butter frosting over the jelly.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- For a fun touch, you can drizzle additional jelly on top or sprinkle crushed peanuts around the base of the cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If you want an even smoother finish, chill the cake in the fridge for 20 minutes after applying the first layer of frosting