This Decadent Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. With layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy chocolate ganache, and smooth peanut butter frosting, topped with Maltesers and shaved chocolate, it’s a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds—chocolate and peanut butter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, this Decadent Chocolate Cake will be your new go-to dessert. The cake itself is rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor. It’s layered with a velvety chocolate ganache and topped with a smooth peanut butter frosting that takes it over the top. Maltesers and shaved chocolate add the perfect finishing touch, making it both delicious and visually stunning. Whether for a birthday, celebration, or just a special treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup shaved chocolate
- 12-15 Maltesers
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and combined.
- Gradually add boiling water, mixing well until the batter is thin and well incorporated.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a heatproof bowl, heat the heavy cream in the microwave until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool and thicken.
- For the peanut butter frosting, beat together peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top, then drizzle with chocolate ganache. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the peanut butter frosting.
- Garnish with shaved chocolate and Maltesers.
- Serve and enjoy the ultimate indulgence!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 servings
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Frosting: Replace the peanut butter frosting with a classic chocolate buttercream frosting for a more chocolate-forward version.
- Caramel Layer: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the cake layers for an extra rich flavor combination.
- Nutty Topping: Add crushed peanuts or pecans on top of the frosting for some crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Mini Cake Version: You can bake this recipe in smaller pans or make cupcakes for individual servings.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Serve at room temperature. If you want to warm it up slightly, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Once they’ve cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers after they’ve cooled. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before frosting.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate, but keep in mind it will make the ganache sweeter and less intense.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the frosting?
You can use crunchy peanut butter, but it will add texture to the frosting. If you prefer a smoother frosting, stick with creamy peanut butter.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
Can I make the frosting without powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar helps give the frosting a smooth and creamy texture, but if you don’t have any, you can use regular granulated sugar. Just make sure to beat the frosting well to dissolve the sugar completely.
Can I use a store-bought ganache?
Yes, you can use store-bought ganache to save time, but homemade ganache gives a richer, smoother flavor.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container. If refrigerated, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
How can I make the frosting thicker?
If the frosting is too runny, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it up. Start with small amounts and beat until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can make this cake egg-free by using an egg substitute such as flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Keep in mind the texture may slightly differ.
Conclusion
This Decadent Chocolate Cake is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, indulgent desserts. With layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate ganache, and a smooth peanut butter frosting, it offers the ultimate chocolate and peanut butter experience. Topped with Maltesers and shaved chocolate, this cake is perfect for any celebration or as a special treat. It’s sure to satisfy even the most intense sweet cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Decadent Chocolate Cake
A rich, indulgent chocolate cake layered with creamy chocolate ganache and smooth peanut butter frosting, topped with Maltesers and shaved chocolate for the ultimate chocolate lover’s treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- For the chocolate ganache:
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- For the peanut butter frosting:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
- For the topping:
- 1/4 cup shaved chocolate
- 12–15 Maltesers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and combined.
- Gradually add boiling water, mixing well until the batter is thin and well incorporated.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a heatproof bowl, heat heavy cream in the microwave until just simmering. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth. Set aside to cool and thicken.
- For the peanut butter frosting, beat together peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Drizzle with chocolate ganache. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with peanut butter frosting.
- Garnish with shaved chocolate and Maltesers.
- Serve and enjoy the ultimate indulgence!
Notes
- For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting to enhance the chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
- Make sure the ganache is thickened to a spreadable consistency before applying it to the cake.
- If you prefer a sweeter frosting, you can increase the powdered sugar in the peanut butter frosting to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg