Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake, a treat that combines creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly in a moist and fluffy cake. This dessert is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, bringing joy to both kids and adults alike! Its nostalgic taste will remind you of childhood favorites while making any gathering special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this cake accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of peanut butter and jelly creates a rich flavor profile that delights the taste buds.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different jelly flavors to suit your preferences.
• Perfect Texture: The moistness of the cake pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting, creating a delightful contrast.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess. They come in various sizes for different tasks.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating batter or frosting, ensuring a light, fluffy texture.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and folding ingredients gently, maintaining airiness in your batter.

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Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup milk (adjust for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Peanut Butter Mixture

In another bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing well. Incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Alternately add the dry mixture and milk to the peanut butter mixture. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Make Frosting

While cakes cool, beat together peanut butter and softened butter. Gradually add powdered sugar and adjust consistency with milk until creamy.

Step 7: Assemble Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread your favorite jelly on top followed by peanut butter frosting. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.

Step 8: Serve

Slice into pieces and enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake!

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Serving your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake can enhance its delightful flavors and elevate the overall experience. Here are some fun and delicious ways to present this cake at your next gathering.

Classic Slice

• Serve a classic slice of cake with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an added touch of sweetness.

Ice Cream Pairing

• A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream complements the rich peanut butter and jelly flavors beautifully.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add slices of fresh strawberries or bananas on top of each slice for a refreshing contrast.

Coffee Companion

• Pairing this cake with a cup of coffee creates a delightful afternoon treat, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments.

Cake Trifle

• Layer pieces of cake, jelly, and frosting in a glass for an elegant dessert trifle that looks as good as it tastes.

Picnic Treat

• Cut into bite-sized squares for an easy-to-serve option at picnics or parties, making it simple for guests to grab and enjoy.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing until just combined prevents the cake from becoming dense; gentle folding is key.
• Rotate the pans – Halfway through baking, rotate the pans to ensure even cooking and prevent uneven rise.
• Cool completely before frosting – Allowing the cakes to cool fully ensures that your frosting doesn’t melt and stays fluffy.
• Experiment with jelly flavors – Try different types of jelly like raspberry or apricot to add unique twists to your cake.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake can enhance its appeal and flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Vanilla Yogurt – Creamy yogurt acts as a cooling counterpart, balancing the sweetness effectively.
3. Chocolate Pudding – The richness of chocolate pudding pairs wonderfully with peanut butter’s nutty flavor.
4. Nut Mix – A crunchy nut mix offers texture that complements the softness of the cake while enhancing its peanut flavor.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast that balances out the sweetness.
6. Granola Bars – These provide a chewy texture that can enhance the overall dessert experience if served alongside slices of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Ingredients – Starting with cold eggs and butter can lead to a lumpy batter. Always let your ingredients sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter – Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Stir until just combined; small lumps are okay!
• Not Greasing the Pans Properly – This can lead to cakes sticking and breaking apart. Make sure to grease and flour your pans thoroughly or use parchment paper.
• Skipping the Cooling Time – Cutting into the cake while it’s still warm can result in a messy slice. Allow it to cool in the pans for at least 10 minutes before transferring.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature Accuracy – Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your temperature is correct for even baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake so special?

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake combines two beloved flavors into one moist dessert, evoking childhood memories while being suitable for any occasion.

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can! Just ensure that it’s well-stirred to eliminate separation before measuring.

How can I customize my Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake?

Feel free to experiment with different jellies or jams like raspberry or blueberry. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch!

Is this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake suitable for birthdays?

Absolutely! Its nostalgic flavor makes it a fun and unique birthday cake choice that appeals to both kids and adults.

How do I achieve the best frosting consistency?

Start with room temperature butter and adjust milk until you reach your desired creamy texture without it being too runny.

Final Thoughts

The Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different flavors of jelly or even add toppings like crushed nuts. This cake is bound to bring joy and nostalgia to any gathering—so why not give it a try?