Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
The Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese into a moist, decadent cake. Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, this pound cake is sure to impress everyone with its unique taste and texture. Its creamy glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that makes it irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with the glaze, or as a base for your favorite toppings like fresh fruits or whipped cream.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or just a cozy evening at home, this pound cake fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Serve it at your next potluck or picnic, and watch it disappear quickly!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- 12-cup bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the ingredients easy and ensures a light batter.
- Bundt pan: Provides the perfect shape for even baking and beautiful presentation.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients smoothly without lumps.
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
- 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 Pan
Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan. Set aside. DO NOT preheat the oven.
Step 2: Cream the Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Use a mixer to cream together the shortening, butter, cream cheese, and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the sugar while beating until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add this flour mixture to the creamed mixture while blending well.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
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.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
While cooling:
1. In another bowl, mix together sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and milk until smooth.
2. Pour over cooled cake once it has rested in the pan for about 10 minutes and you have inverted it onto a serving platter.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake with family and friends!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Serving Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions that enhance this delicious dessert.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Bananas: The sweetness of bananas pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of peanut butter.
- Berries: Use strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to add a fresh and tart contrast.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Classic Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream soars in flavor alongside the dense cake.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or chocolate extract for an extra twist.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Chocolate Sauce: A warm chocolate drizzle creates a decadent touch that elevates the cake.
- Nutella Spread: For hazelnut lovers, Nutella adds a creamy richness that complements the peanut butter.
Served with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing balances the cake’s richness with its cool creaminess.
- Peanut Butter Ice Cream: For true peanut butter enthusiasts, this option amplifies the flavor experience.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
To achieve the best Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you in creating a moist and flavorful cake every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake; overmixing can lead to toughness.
- Cold Oven Baking: Start baking in a cold oven as per the recipe; this helps create a crusty exterior while keeping the inside moist.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness 10 minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
- Cool Before Icing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any glaze or icing; this helps it adhere better.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some ideas that work beautifully together.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness next to the rich pound cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: This light dessert brings an elegant touch and balances out the dense texture of the cake.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel for an indulgent touch that perfectly complements peanut butter’s nuttiness.
- Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage like coffee or tea offers warmth and contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy ones like Brie, provides a savory counterpoint.
- Nutty Granola: Serve granola on the side for added crunch and a bit more peanut flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing and affect texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Once you combine the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Skipping the cold oven method: This recipe calls for starting in a cold oven. Skipping this step can result in uneven baking, so be sure to follow it.
- Not checking doneness early: Always check your cake with a toothpick a few minutes before the recommended bake time. Ovens vary, and overbaking can dry out your cake.
- Forgetting to grease the pan properly: Greasing and flouring your bundt pan is crucial. A well-prepared pan ensures easy release after baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap slices in foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm slices for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake.
What makes Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake unique?
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake stands out due to its rich flavor from both peanut butter and cream cheese, creating a moist and decadent dessert.
Can I use creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy?
Yes, you can substitute creamy peanut butter for crunchy if you prefer a smoother texture in your cake.
How do I know when my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is done?
Your cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I add chocolate chips to my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips will enhance the flavor and add extra sweetness; just fold them gently into the batter before pouring it into the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different frostings. It’s perfect for any occasion or as a comforting treat at home. Try it today and enjoy its rich flavors!
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, a rich and moist dessert that perfectly combines the creamy flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese. This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience that elevates any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. Its velvety texture and sweet glaze make it irresistible to everyone. Pair it with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an added touch, and watch it become an instant favorite at your next gathering.
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
- Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan (do not preheat oven).
- In a large bowl, cream shortening, butter, cream cheese, and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture along with vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan and place in a cold oven. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
