Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Indulge in a nostalgic slice of Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake, where creamy peanut butter meets sweet jelly in a moist, fluffy cake. Perfect for birthdays or any celebration, this delightful dessert will bring smiles to both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and jelly creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve a delightful result.
• Versatile Dessert: This cake is perfect for various occasions, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the classic flavors, making it an ideal treat for their celebrations.
• Customizable Options: Use your favorite jelly flavor to personalize the cake to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly without much effort.
• Cooling rack: Ensures cakes cool evenly, preventing sogginess.

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: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar while mixing. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

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

Step 5: Bake Cakes

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

Step 6: Prepare Frosting

While cakes cool, beat together peanut butter and softened butter. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until you reach a creamy consistency.

Step 7: Assemble Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread jelly on top followed by a layer of peanut butter frosting. Add the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 8: Serve

Slice your delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake and enjoy!

This recipe promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite! Enjoy your baking adventure!

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Serving your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake can elevate its delightful flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests and enhance their experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries – Fresh strawberries or blueberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Banana Slices – The creaminess of bananas complements the peanut butter flavor perfectly.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that balances the richness of the cake with creamy sweetness.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For chocolate lovers, this adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Warm Chocolate Sauce – A warm drizzle over each slice creates a decadent touch that enhances every bite.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Light Whipped Cream – A dollop on top or beside the cake adds airiness and freshness, making it even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Creating the perfect Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for a flawless dessert.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow eggs, butter, and milk to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off for accurate results; too much flour can make the cake dense.
• Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Cool Cakes Completely – Ensure cakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Enhance your dessert experience by pairing your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a healthy side that balances sweetness.
3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – These salty-sweet snacks add crunch and fun to your dessert spread.
4. Veggie Sticks with Hummus – Crisp vegetables paired with creamy hummus offer a savory option alongside dessert.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweet flavors beautifully.
6. Nut Mix – A bowl of assorted nuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs and butter can affect the texture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can dry out your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Neglecting to Preheat the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat for even cooking.
• Ignoring Cooling Times: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding making Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add texture and flavor, making your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake even more delightful.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

What type of jelly works best for this recipe?

Grape and strawberry jellies are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors for personalization!

Can I make this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works cup-for-cup to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

The Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is not just nostalgic; it’s versatile too! You can customize it with different jellies or even add nuts for an extra crunch. We encourage you to try this delightful dessert that brings joy and sweetness to any occasion.