We’ve discovered the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds – our decadent chocolate peanut butter bundt cake. This showstopping dessert combines rich chocolate cake with swirls of creamy peanut butter that create an irresistible flavor combination in every single bite.
What makes this bundt cake special isn’t just its impressive ring shape that looks stunning on any dessert table. It’s the perfect balance of moist chocolate cake and that signature peanut butter ribbon that runs throughout. We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver bakery-quality results right from your home kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, bringing dessert to a potluck, or simply treating your family to something extraordinary, this chocolate peanut butter bundt cake delivers every time. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make and even better the next day.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected quality ingredients to create this show-stopping chocolate peanut butter bundt cake. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter flavors.
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 cup strong black coffee, cooled
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Peanut Butter Swirl
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the Chocolate Glaze
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
Creating our chocolate peanut butter bundt cake requires exact equipment to achieve the perfect texture and presentation. We recommend gathering all tools before starting to ensure smooth preparation.
Our primary piece of equipment is a 12-cup bundt pan, which creates the cake’s signature ring shape and allows for even baking. We suggest greasing the pan thoroughly with butter and dusting it with cocoa powder to prevent sticking and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Large mixing bowls are essential for combining our dry and wet ingredients separately. We use at least two bowls to maintain proper mixing techniques and prevent overmixing the batter.
An electric mixer streamlines the preparation process significantly. We can use either a stand mixer with paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer to cream ingredients and achieve the smooth consistency needed for both the cake batter and peanut butter swirl.
Wire cooling racks provide proper air circulation for cooling our finished cake. We place the bundt pan on the rack immediately after removing it from the oven to prevent condensation buildup.
Standard measuring tools ensure accuracy in our recipe. We need dry measuring cups for flour and sugar, liquid measuring cups for buttermilk and oil, and measuring spoons for smaller quantities like vanilla extract and baking soda.
A rubber spatula helps us fold ingredients gently and scrape bowl sides clean. We use this tool to incorporate the chocolate chips without overmixing the delicate batter.
Our oven thermometer guarantees accurate temperature readings. We verify that our oven reaches the proper 350°F (175°C) or 325°F (165°C) for dark pans before baking begins.
A toothpick or cake tester allows us to check doneness without cutting into the cake. We insert it into the thickest part of the cake to ensure it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Medium saucepan becomes necessary for preparing our chocolate glaze. We use this to gently heat the heavy cream before combining it with chocolate chips for a smooth, glossy finish.
Instructions
We’ll walk through each step to create this show-stopping chocolate peanut butter bundt cake with perfect results every time. Follow our detailed process for a moist cake with beautiful peanut butter swirls.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking throughout the cake. Thoroughly spray your 12-cup bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray, paying special attention to all the grooves and ridges. Dust the greased pan with cocoa powder to prevent sticking and add extra chocolate flavor. Tap out any excess cocoa powder before setting the prepared pan aside.
Make the Chocolate Cake Batter
Whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, ¾ cup cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt in a large mixing bowl. Create a well in the center of these dry ingredients. Beat together ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 cup buttermilk in a separate bowl until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Add 1 cup strong black coffee gradually while mixing to create a smooth, pourable batter. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl
Beat ½ cup creamy peanut butter with ¼ cup softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the mixture. Continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Sift in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt, mixing until fully incorporated. The filling should be smooth and spreadable without any lumps.
Assemble the Cake
Pour two-thirds of the chocolate cake batter into your prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Use a large spoon to dollop the peanut butter filling around the center ring of the batter, keeping it away from the edges. Pour the remaining chocolate batter over the peanut butter filling, covering it completely. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles and settle the layers.
Bake the Bundt Cake
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking as this can dry out the cake. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for exactly 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen any stuck areas before inverting onto a wire cooling rack. Let the cake cool completely before adding any glaze or frosting.
Chocolate Glaze
The glossy chocolate glaze transforms our bundt cake into a truly spectacular dessert. This rich finishing touch creates the perfect complement to the peanut butter swirls beneath.
Make the Glaze
We begin by gathering our chocolate glaze ingredients: ⅓ cup chopped semisweet chocolate and ⅓ cup heavy cream. Place the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it starts to simmer gently. Remove the saucepan from heat immediately to prevent the cream from boiling.
Add the chopped chocolate to the hot cream and let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. This resting period allows the chocolate to soften completely. Stir the mixture slowly with a whisk until the chocolate melts fully and creates a smooth, glossy glaze.
The finished glaze should have a pourable consistency that coats the back of a spoon. If the glaze appears too thick, we can add an additional tablespoon of warm cream. Allow the glaze to cool slightly before applying it to prevent it from being too runny.
Glaze the Cake
Ensure our bundt cake has cooled completely before glazing to prevent the chocolate from melting off the surface. Position the cake on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drips.
Starting at one edge, drizzle the chocolate glaze evenly over the top of the cake using a spoon or small ladle. Work our way around the entire cake, allowing the glaze to cascade down the sides naturally. The glaze will set within 10-15 minutes, creating a beautiful glossy finish.
For the best presentation, we recommend letting the glaze set completely before transferring the cake to a serving plate. Any excess glaze that drips onto the baking sheet can be scraped up and reused if needed.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage keeps our chocolate peanut butter bundt cake fresh and delicious for days. We recommend following exact storage methods based on how long you plan to keep the cake.
For short-term storage, we store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method works perfectly when the cake doesn’t contain highly perishable fillings or frostings. The room temperature storage maintains the cake’s ideal texture and flavor profile.
When we need longer storage, refrigeration becomes our preferred method. We place the cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, with some recipes allowing storage for up to a week. The peanut butter filling and chocolate glaze particularly benefit from refrigerated storage to preserve their freshness and prevent spoilage.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Cakes without perishable toppings |
| Refrigeration | 3-5 days (up to 1 week) | Cakes with ganache, peanut butter, or frosting |
| Freezing | 2-6 months | Long-term storage |
Refrigeration may slightly dry out the cake, but we easily remedy this by briefly reheating individual slices before serving. This gentle warming restores the cake’s moisture and enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
For long-term storage, we freeze the bundt cake using a careful wrapping method. We wrap the cake tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Basic cakes without excessive toppings or sauces freeze best, maintaining their texture for 2 to 6 months depending on the exact recipe and storage technique.
When we’re ready to serve frozen cake, we thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process preserves the cake’s moisture and prevents condensation from affecting the texture.
We always ensure the cake cools completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess. Using clean, airtight containers or quality plastic wrap gives us the best storage results and maintains our cake’s exceptional taste and texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love how this chocolate peanut butter bundt cake actually improves with time, making it perfect for advance preparation. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, creating an even more delicious dessert the next day.
Room Temperature Storage
Our bundt cake stays fresh and moist when stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. We recommend using a cake dome or tightly wrapping the cake with plastic wrap to maintain optimal moisture levels. This method works best for cakes that will be served within a few days of baking.
Refrigeration Options
When we need to store the cake longer, refrigeration extends its freshness for up to 5 days. We always allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to restore its ideal texture and flavor profile. The cold storage may slightly firm the cake, but bringing it back to room temperature returns it to its original moist consistency.
Freezing for Long Term Storage
For maximum make ahead convenience, we wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Double wrapping with aluminum foil provides extra protection against freezer burn. We always thaw the cake completely before adding any glaze or frosting to ensure the best presentation.
Party Planning Strategy
We recommend baking the cake up to 2 days ahead and storing it covered for special occasions. Adding glazes on the day of serving ensures the most attractive presentation and prevents the glaze from absorbing into the cake. This timing allows us to focus on other party preparations while still serving a fresh tasting dessert.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving this chocolate peanut butter bundt cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture balance. The cake reaches its peak taste when the chocolate and peanut butter flavors have time to meld together naturally.
Temperature and Timing
Warm servings create an indulgent experience as the chocolate glaze becomes slightly soft and the peanut butter swirls turn creamy. We suggest heating individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer this approach. Cooled servings offer a firmer texture that highlights the cake’s structural beauty and allows for cleaner slicing.
Garnishing Options
Additional peanuts transform each slice into a textural masterpiece. We sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the chocolate glaze while it’s still slightly tacky for the best adherence. Mini peanut butter cups create an extra layer of indulgence when placed strategically around the cake’s crown or pressed gently into the glaze.
Crushed peanut butter cups provide both visual appeal and flavor enhancement. We pulse full-size peanut butter cups in a food processor until they form chunky pieces perfect for sprinkling.
Presentation Ideas
Special occasions call for elegant presentation techniques. We place the glazed bundt cake on a decorative cake stand to showcase its beautiful ring shape. Dusting the serving plate with cocoa powder creates a professional bakery appearance.
Fresh berries offer a delightful color contrast against the rich chocolate glaze. We arrange strawberries or raspberries around the cake’s base for special celebrations.
Portion Considerations
This rich dessert serves 12-16 people when cut into standard bundt cake slices. We recommend thinner slices for after-dinner service since the chocolate and peanut butter combination creates a very satisfying dessert experience.
Beverage Pairings
Cold milk complements the rich flavors perfectly and helps balance the cake’s sweetness. We also suggest serving with hot coffee or espresso to enhance the chocolate notes while providing a pleasant temperature contrast.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted a dessert that truly delivers on both flavor and presentation. This chocolate peanut butter bundt cake combines the best of both worlds – rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter – in a stunning ring-shaped package that’s perfect for any gathering.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. With quality ingredients and straightforward techniques we can create a bakery-worthy dessert right in our own kitchen. The glossy chocolate glaze adds that professional finishing touch that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Whether we’re planning ahead for a special occasion or looking for a weekend baking project this bundt cake fits the bill perfectly. It’s a showstopper that tastes even better the next day making it our go-to choice for stress-free entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this chocolate peanut butter bundt cake special?
This bundt cake features a rich, moist chocolate base with creamy peanut butter swirls throughout, creating the perfect balance of flavors. The cake is topped with a glossy chocolate glaze that adds both visual appeal and extra chocolate richness. It’s designed for easy preparation and actually tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for parties and special occasions.
What ingredients do I need for this bundt cake?
For the chocolate cake: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, eggs, buttermilk, strong black coffee, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. For the peanut butter swirl: creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. For the chocolate glaze: semi-sweet chocolate, heavy cream, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
What equipment is essential for making this cake?
You’ll need a 12-cup bundt pan for the signature ring shape, large mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, wire cooling racks, and a toothpick for testing doneness. For the glaze, you’ll need a medium saucepan. Thoroughly grease your bundt pan with butter and dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
How do I make the chocolate glaze?
Heat heavy cream in a medium saucepan, then pour it over chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. Drizzle methodically over the cake and let it set for the best presentation.
How should I store this bundt cake?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 3-5 days. For long-term storage, wrap tightly and freeze for 2-6 months. The cake actually improves with time, so it’s perfect for making ahead. If refrigerated, let it return to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is perfect for advance preparation as it tastes even better the next day. You can bake it up to 2 days in advance and store it covered at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months, then add the glaze on serving day.
How should I serve this bundt cake?
Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture balance. The cake serves 12-16 people and pairs wonderfully with cold milk or hot coffee. For extra indulgence, warm individual slices slightly. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts or mini peanut butter cups, and consider presenting it on a decorative cake stand with fresh berries for color contrast.
Why does the recipe call for strong black coffee?
The strong black coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. It’s a common baker’s secret that intensifies the cocoa taste and adds depth to the chocolate cake. The coffee flavor is not detectable in the finished cake, but it makes the chocolate taste richer and more pronounced.
