
There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter that evokes sweet childhood memories. Whether you remember sneaking spoonfuls of peanut butter from the jar or indulging in store-bought treats, this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake brings all those feelings back. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake 🥜🍫
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and in the oven in about 20 minutes.
- Easy: It’s a simple “brown and bake” method that even beginner cooks can master.
- Giftable: This is a sturdy dish that travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or as a “get well soon” meal.
- Crowd-pleasing: Even people who think they don’t like peanut butter usually fall in love with this creamy, chocolaty version!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Drip:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
For Decoration:
- Peanut butter cups, chopped
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake 🥜🍫
Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
- Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined. The batter will be thin. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. - Make the Peanut Butter Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, and mix until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Assemble the Cake:
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting. - Prepare the Chocolate Drip:
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Allow the chocolate ganache to cool slightly before drizzling over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. - Decorate:
Top the cake with chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate shavings if desired. - Serve:
Slice and enjoy your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are some ideas:
- For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Swap out creamy peanut butter for crunchy if you like some extra texture.
- Add some chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added flavor kick!
Tips for Success
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the cooling time! Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Store Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake 🥜🍫
To keep your cake fresh:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving again.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just frost and decorate before serving.
Can I use a different frosting?
Yes! Feel free to use chocolate frosting or even a whipped cream topping if that’s your style.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute it with milk, but the drip may not be as rich and glossy.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to three months in the freezer.
For more delicious recipes, check out Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl Rolls or Easy Key Lime Pie Cookies for treats you will love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more sweet inspiration!

Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake
Equipment
- oven
- Mixing Bowl
- Cake Pans
- saucepan
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 1.5 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Drip
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
For Decoration
- peanut butter cups chopped
- chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, and mix until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
- Step 4: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Allow the chocolate ganache to cool slightly before drizzling over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Step 5: Top the cake with chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate shavings if desired.
- Step 6: Slice and enjoy your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Drip Cake!
