Molly Yeh Peanut Butter Cake
Molly Yeh Peanut Butter Cake is a delightful, indulgent dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a moist, fluffy cake. Topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting, this cake is perfect for peanut butter lovers and a delicious treat for any occasion or celebration.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch cake pans
- Cooling rack
- Sifter
Ingredients
For The Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup peanut butter smooth or chunky
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 1/4 cup flavorless oil
- 6 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk at room temperature
For The Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup peanut butter smooth or chunky
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream adjust for desired frosting consistency
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack. For the frosting, beat together the butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar. Add heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, adjusting the cream for desired consistency.
- Frost the cooled cakes with the peanut butter frosting and serve. Enjoy!
Notes
Peanut Butter Preference: You can use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter for the cake itself. I personally love the texture that crunchy peanut butter adds to the cake, but smooth works perfectly well if you prefer a more uniform texture.
Cake Variations: If you want to give this cake a twist, try adding chocolate chips or even a layer of jam between the cake layers. The peanut butter flavor pairs beautifully with chocolate or fruit spreads.
Frosting Tip: If the frosting is too thick for spreading, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, if you want a firmer frosting, you can add a bit more powdered sugar.