Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese into a moist, tender cake. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this cake stands out with its creamy texture and nutty taste. The unique combination of ingredients creates a flavor profile that everyone will love, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of peanut butter and cream cheese creates a rich taste that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this delightful cake without hassle.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as an everyday treat with coffee or tea.
- Moist and Tender: This pound cake remains wonderfully moist thanks to the addition of cream cheese and eggs.
- Impressive Presentation: The bundt shape makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather all necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- 12-cup bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for creaming ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
- Bundt pan: Provides an attractive shape for the cake while allowing even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Needed for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 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 Icing
- 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 Your Bundt Pan
Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan. Set aside. DO NOT preheat the oven just yet.
Step 2: Cream the Mixture
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together:
1. Shortening,
2. Butter,
3. Cream cheese,
4. Crunchy peanut butter until smooth.
Gradually add in the sugar while beating until light and fluffy. Add each egg one at a time, ensuring to beat well after each addition.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together:
– Flour,
– Baking powder,
– Salt.
Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, blending well. Finish by adding in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Place it in a cold oven. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving platter.
Step 5: Make the Glaze Icing
Mix together:
1. Sweetened condensed milk,
2. Peanut butter,
3. Milk until smooth.
Pour over your cooled cake to finish off this delightful dessert.
Enjoy your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up, there are many ways to make this cake shine at any gathering.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Bananas: Slices of banana add extra sweetness and complement the peanut butter flavor.
Topped with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a classic pairing that enhances the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this indulgent option brings an exciting twist to your dessert.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Warm Chocolate Sauce: Pouring warm chocolate sauce over each slice creates a decadent experience.
- Nutella Spread: For a hazelnut twist, drizzling Nutella can elevate the flavor profile.
With Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream balances the density of the pound cake beautifully.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract for an extra touch.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
To ensure your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven reaches the correct baking temperature of 325°F.
- Cool Gradually: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a platter to prevent breakage.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance its unique flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Pudding: Smooth chocolate pudding provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra sweet touch.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy alternative to balance the dense pound cake.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea can enhance the dessert experience and cleanse the palate.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle nutty granola on top for added crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making something as delightful as a Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Always use room temperature butter and cream cheese for a smooth batter. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can create a tough texture instead of a light pound cake.
- Skipping the cold oven method: This recipe calls for placing the cake in a cold oven. Ignoring this step may result in uneven baking and an undesirable crust.
- Not greasing the pan properly: Ensure your bundt pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. A stuck cake can ruin its beautiful shape.
- Not checking for doneness: Rely on the toothpick test to check if your cake is done. Inserting it should come out clean; otherwise, bake a bit longer.
- Forgetting to cool before glazing: Let your pound cake cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps it adhere better and enhances flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake unique?
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake stands out due to its rich peanut butter flavor combined with creaminess from cream cheese, creating a delightful texture.
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy?
Yes, you can substitute smooth peanut butter if you prefer a less textured cake. Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful bits but is not essential.
How do I know when my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is done?
You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I customize my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Experiment with mix-ins that you love!
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or toppings for added fun! Try this recipe today; you won’t regret it!
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, a luscious dessert that marries the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and tangy cream cheese. This moist and tender pound cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a sweet treat at home. With its impressive bundt shape and irresistible flavor, this cake will surely be a hit among family and friends. Easy to make with straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this crowd-pleaser effortlessly. Top it off with a sweet glaze for an added touch of decadence!
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 (do not preheat yet) and grease/flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together shortening, butter, cream cheese, and crunchy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat 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 add to the creamed mixture along with vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and place it in a cold oven. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a platter.
- Mix together sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and milk until smooth. Pour over your cooled cake to finish off this delightful dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 41g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
