Old Fashioned Peanut Butter cake has been a cherished part of my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s the aroma of roasted peanuts and sweet vanilla filling the kitchen, the promise of a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth. This traditional peanut butter cake recipe is my grandmother’s, passed down with love. Every bite brings back memories of lazy Sunday afternoons and the comforting taste of pure, simple ingredients. It’s the kind of cake that makes everyone feel right at home. Ready to bake some delicious memories? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

This cake is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the perfect balance of ingredients and a touch of buttermilk. You’ll adore the rich, authentic peanut butter flavor that isn’t overly sweet, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a reliable classic peanut butter cake recipe.

Incredibly moist and tender crumb
Rich, authentic peanut butter taste
Perfectly balanced sweetness
Simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests
A nostalgic trip back to simpler times
Versatile for different frosting or glaze options
Uses a traditional peanut butter flavor profile
Always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly homemade old-fashioned peanut butter cake experience. Using good quality peanut butter is key for that authentic flavor.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our tender cake
1 teaspoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – for lift and texture
1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – for richness and moisture
1 cup creamy peanut butter – the star of the show, choose a smooth variety for the best texture
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar – for sweetness and depth
3 large eggs – at room temperature to incorporate smoothly
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a classic flavor enhancer
1 1/4 cups buttermilk – adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the peanut butter
For the frosting/glaze:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk or cream – adjust for your desired glaze consistency
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings: roasted peanuts, crushed peanut butter cookies

How to Make Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

Creating this delightful cake from scratch is a rewarding experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is pure comfort. Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect homemade old-fashioned peanut butter cake every time.

Preparing the Cake Batter

First, let’s get our dry ingredients ready. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In a separate large bowl, I love to cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, and 1 cup creamy peanut butter with 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar. This creaming step is crucial for that light, fluffy texture that defines a great cake; don’t rush it! Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Your batter will look amazing!

Baking the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to properly grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so your cake releases beautifully. Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1 1/4 cups buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The scent of baking peanut butter is your cue!

Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake: 1 Amazing Recipe - Old Fashioned Peanut Butter - additional detail

Crafting the Peanut Butter Frosting/Glaze

While the cake is cooling, let’s whip up the irresistible frosting. In a bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, and 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, alternating with 1/4 cup milk or cream. Add more milk or cream, a tablespoon at a time, if you want a thinner glaze to pour. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic flavor boost. This frosting is the perfect complement to the cake’s rich peanut butter taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

I’ve baked this cake more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. These tips will help you achieve that incredible texture and authentic flavor.

Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for the smoothest batter and best rise.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Choose the right peanut butter: For the best traditional peanut butter flavor, use a smooth, creamy peanut butter that doesn’t separate much. Natural peanut butters can sometimes affect the cake’s texture.
Let it cool slightly before frosting: A warm cake can melt the frosting. Wait until it’s just slightly warm or completely cool for the best results.

What’s the secret to perfect Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake?

The secret lies in creaming the butter and sugars until very light and fluffy, and using buttermilk. This combination creates an incredibly tender crumb and enhances the authentic old-fashioned peanut butter taste without being too heavy. For more baking tips, check out our about Niki Air Fryer page.

Can I make Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake one day in advance and store it at room temperature, tightly covered. The frosting can also be made ahead and refrigerated; just let it soften slightly before spreading. For more information on recipe guidelines, please see our terms of use.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, as this leads to a dense cake. Also, be sure to grease and flour your pan well to prevent sticking. Using a good quality, creamy peanut butter is crucial for the best flavor and texture. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

This cake is wonderful on its own, but I love dressing it up a bit! A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always lovely, especially if you’re going for that authentic old-fashioned peanut butter look. For an extra special treat, I like to serve a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is divine! If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the peanut butter frosting adds another layer of indulgence. It’s perfect for dessert or even a decadent afternoon tea. You can find more last recipes here.

Nutrition Facts for Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

This classic peanut butter cake recipe is a treat, and here’s a look at its estimated nutritional breakdown per serving. Remember that these figures are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and brands you use for your homemade old-fashioned peanut butter cake. For details on data privacy, please review our GDPR policy.

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Fat: Approximately 25g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 12g
Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
Fiber: Approximately 2g
Sugar: Approximately 40g
Protein: Approximately 7g
Sodium: Approximately 250mg
Cholesterol: Approximately 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

Properly storing your delicious old-fashioned peanut butter spread cake ensures it stays fresh and flavorful. Once the cake has cooled completely, which is crucial to prevent condensation and sogginess, you can store it. I recommend an airtight container for countertop storage for up to two days. For longer freshness, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store it in a dedicated airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This method helps maintain the cake’s moisture and that wonderful old-fashioned peanut butter taste.

If you find yourself with more cake than you can enjoy within a few days, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. This protects it from freezer burn. Properly stored, your cake can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply let a frozen slice thaw overnight in the refrigerator. You can also gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick, comforting treat that brings back that delicious homemade old-fashioned peanut butter experience.

Variations of Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake You Can Try

While this classic peanut butter cake recipe is wonderful as is, I love experimenting with variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity for your next homemade old-fashioned peanut butter creation:

Gluten-Free Version: Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You might need to add a touch more liquid, so keep an eye on batter consistency. This is a great way to enjoy the old-fashioned peanut butter taste if you have gluten sensitivities.
Diet-Friendly Option: For a cake with less sugar, try using a sugar substitute like erythritol or a blend in place of granulated and brown sugar. You can also use a natural, unsweetened peanut butter for a lower-sugar profile.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl: Before baking, prepare a simple chocolate ganache or melted chocolate. Swirl dollops of the chocolate mixture into the cake batter in the pan. Bake as directed for a decadent fusion of flavors.
Cupcake Style: This recipe makes fantastic cupcakes! Line muffin tins with liners and fill about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. They’re perfect for parties and easier portion control.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

What makes this cake “Old Fashioned”?

The term “old-fashioned” refers to the classic, traditional method and flavor profile. This cake uses simple, familiar ingredients and techniques, focusing on a pure, rich peanut butter taste without fancy additions. It evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of baking from scratch in simpler times, offering that authentic old-fashioned peanut butter experience.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you absolutely can! Using crunchy old-fashioned peanut butter will add a delightful textural element to both the cake and the frosting. It provides little pockets of peanut crunch that many people love. Just be aware that it might slightly alter the smoothness of the batter and frosting, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

What can I serve with Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a rich chocolate shake, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more grown-up pairing, consider a dark roast coffee or a sweet dessert wine. It’s versatile enough to be a simple treat or dressed up for a special occasion, truly showcasing the best old-fashioned peanut butter flavor.

Why is my Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake dry?

A dry cake often results from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Make sure to bake only until a toothpick comes out clean, and mix the batter until just combined. Using buttermilk and ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature also helps create a moist crumb for this traditional peanut butter cake. For more baking tips, visit our homepage.