Name: Heavenly Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared according to package instructions); 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; ½ cup crushed peanuts; Optional: Chocolate bars or peanut butter cups for garnish

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Introduction

This Heavenly Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Rich, decadent layers of chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and silky dark chocolate ganache come together in this indulgent dessert. Topped with crushed peanuts and optional candy garnish, it’s perfect for any special occasion or sweet craving.

A tall slice of chocolate cake with four distinct layers is shown on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The layers alternate between dark brown, moist chocolate cake and light brown creamy peanut butter filling. The top of the cake is covered with thick, shiny dark chocolate ganache that drips down the sides. Small clusters of peanuts and chocolate chips are scattered on the top, adding texture. The cake looks rich and indulgent with a mix of smooth, creamy, and crunchy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared according to package instructions)
1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
½ cup crushed peanuts
Optional: chocolate bars or peanut butter cups for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cake by baking the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box. Use two 8-inch round cake pans. Let the cakes cool completely.
Step 2: Make the filling by beating the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter and powdered sugar, mixing until well-blended and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the cake by placing one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the peanut butter filling generously over the top. Add the second cake layer on top.
Step 4: Make the ganache by heating the heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Top the cake by pouring ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Smooth it out with a spatula.
Step 6: Garnish by sprinkling with crushed peanuts and adding chocolate bars or peanut butter cups if desired.
Step 7: Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet filling or crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter ganache.
For extra richness, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter filling.
Make cupcakes instead of a layer cake for individual servings.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To serve, bring it to room temperature for about 20 minutes or warm slices gently in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften the ganache and filling.

How to Serve

A close-up of a thick slice of chocolate cake with three layers of dark, moist chocolate sponge separated by two layers of creamy peanut butter filling. The cake is covered in a shiny, dark chocolate ganache that drips down the sides. The top layer is decorated with a mix of whole and chopped peanut butter cups, adding texture and color. The slice sits on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Just make sure to bake two 8-inch round layers and let them cool completely before assembling.

How do I prevent the ganache from becoming grainy?

Ensure the cream is hot but not boiling when pouring over the chocolate, and let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring gently. This helps the chocolate melt smoothly, preventing graininess.