Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances rich flavors and a moist texture. Ideal for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake features the creamy goodness of peanut butter and cream cheese. Its unique taste will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and cream cheese creates a rich, decadent taste that stands out.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious pound cake.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it at birthdays, holidays, or as an everyday treat; this cake fits any occasion seamlessly.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- 12-cup bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by efficiently creaming ingredients together.
- Bundt pan: Provides the classic shape and allows even baking throughout the cake.
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1/2 cup butter flavored solid shortening
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Glaze
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons milk
How to Make Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan. Set aside. DO NOT preheat the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Use a mixer to cream together shortening, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and crunchy peanut butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add sugar while beating until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until blended.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan:
1. Place in a cold oven.
2. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving platter.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
To make the icing:
1. Mix sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and milk together until smooth.
2. Pour over cooled cake before serving.
Enjoy your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake with friends and family!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the cake with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a fruity contrast.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on each slice for extra richness and creamy texture.
Accompanied by Ice Cream
- Vanilla or chocolate ice cream makes for a delicious pairing, offering a creamy balance to the cake’s peanut butter flavor.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce on top can intensify the dessert’s appeal.
Served with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying a slice alongside your favorite coffee or tea can create a comforting and enjoyable treat.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include it in a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies or brownies for variety during gatherings.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t skip the cold oven method: Baking in a cold oven helps the cake rise evenly, creating that perfect pound cake texture.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it comes out clean; this ensures it’s fully baked.
- Let it cool properly: Allow the cake to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it; this helps maintain its shape.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Store correctly: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: This rich, airy dessert complements the dense pound cake beautifully.
- Pecan Pie: For those who love nutty flavors, pecan pie offers an indulgent pairing that enhances your meal.
- Caramel Sauce: A side of caramel sauce can be drizzled over slices for an added layer of sweetness.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake makes an excellent brunch companion alongside your pound cake.
- Cheesecake Bites: These bite-sized treats provide another creamy option that pairs well with peanut butter flavors.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Combine two slices of pound cake with ice cream in between for an inventive twist on dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the greasing step: Always grease and flour your bundt pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures a beautiful release after baking.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements lead to the right texture and flavor.
- Adding eggs too quickly: Incorporate each egg one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a smooth batter and improves the cake’s structure.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture you want.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Place the cake in a cold oven as directed. Preheating can alter baking times and ruin the texture.
- Not letting the cake cool properly: Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a platter. This step is crucial for maintaining its shape.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator, keeping it fresh.
Freezing Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- The cake freezes well for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: For a warm slice, place it in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake.
What makes Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake different from regular pound cake?
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake includes creamy peanut butter, giving it a rich flavor and moist texture that sets it apart from traditional pound cakes.
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy?
Yes, you can substitute smooth peanut butter if you prefer a uniform texture without chunks.
How do I know when my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips complement peanut butter beautifully. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pan.
How should I serve my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake?
This cake is delightful on its own but can also be served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is an irresistible dessert that brings comfort and joy with every slice. Its rich peanut butter flavor makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite mix-ins or toppings—try adding chocolate chips or drizzling caramel over each slice for added indulgence! Enjoy baking this delightful treat!
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, where rich flavors and a moist texture come together to create a truly comforting dessert. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to something sweet. The harmonious blend of creamy peanut butter and velvety cream cheese ensures each bite is packed with decadence. Topped with a luscious glaze, this pound cake not only pleases the palate but also impresses at gatherings, leaving everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter flavored solid shortening
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together shortening, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and crunchy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the creamed ingredients along with vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan and place in the cold oven. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a platter.
- For the glaze, mix sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and milk until smooth; drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
