If you’re a fan of the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, then this Peanut Butter and Jelly Layer Cake is the perfect dessert for you! With layers of moist peanut butter cake, rich jelly filling, and a creamy peanut butter frosting, this cake is a delightful twist on a beloved childhood favorite. Topped with fresh berries and peanuts, this cake is both nostalgic and indulgent, making it ideal for special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself. Let’s dive into creating this deliciously layered masterpiece!
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Jelly Filling:
- 1 cup raspberry or grape jelly (or your favorite flavor)
- 1/4 cup water (optional, to thin the jelly if needed)
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (to achieve desired consistency)
For Garnish:
- Fresh raspberries or other berries
- Peanuts
- Drizzle of additional peanut butter or jelly (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Peanut Butter Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Jelly Filling
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the jelly filling. If the jelly is too thick, thin it with a bit of water to make it easier to spread.
- Set the jelly aside until ready to assemble the cake.
Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one layer of the peanut butter cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of jelly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and spread with more jelly. Top with the third cake layer.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the peanut butter frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Garnish and Serve
- Decorate the top of the cake with fresh raspberries or other berries, and sprinkle with peanuts.
- For an extra touch, drizzle additional peanut butter or jelly over the top.
- Slice and serve this rich, nostalgic cake to your guests!
Notes
- Feel free to use your favorite type of jelly or jam for the filling. Grape, strawberry, or raspberry all work wonderfully.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
- To make slicing easier, chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
What if I don’t have three cake pans? You can bake the cake layers in batches, or bake the cake in two pans and slice each layer in half to create four layers instead of three.
Can I use chunky peanut butter? Yes, chunky peanut butter will add a bit of texture to the cake and frosting, which can be a nice variation.
Text Me if You Have Any Problems
If you have any questions or need assistance while making your Peanut Butter and Jelly Layer Cake, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create the perfect dessert.
For more nostalgic and delicious dessert ideas, explore our other recipes. You might also enjoy this external article on creative layer cakes!