Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese. This cake is moist, dense, and incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simply as an indulgent treat at home. The unique combination of creamy textures and nutty flavors makes this pound cake stand out from the rest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The blend of crunchy peanut butter and cream cheese creates a rich taste that peanut butter lovers will adore.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe yields impressive results without requiring extensive baking skills.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dress it up with glaze, or serve with ice cream for an extra treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual afternoon snack, this cake fits right in.
- Leftover Friendly: This pound cake stays fresh for days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 12-cup bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- 12-cup bundt pan: Provides the perfect shape for even baking and easy serving.
- Electric mixer: Ensures a light and fluffy texture by thoroughly creaming the ingredients together.
- Whisk: Ideal for combining dry ingredients quickly and efficiently.
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 Your Pan
Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan. Set it aside for later use. Remember to not preheat the oven at this stage.
Step 2: Cream Your Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to cream together the shortening, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and crunchy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth.
2. Gradually add in the sugar while mixing until the batter is light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture into the creamed mixture while blending well.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix again until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan:
1. Place it 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.
3. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving platter.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
To make the glaze icing:
1. In a bowl, mix together sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and milk until smooth.
2. Pour over your cooled cake before serving to add an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with family, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
Pairing with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combo that balances the rich flavors of the cake.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this pairing adds an extra layer of decadence.
Enjoying with Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Strawberries: The sweetness of strawberries complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- Bananas: Their creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the cake’s moistness.
Drizzling with Sauce
- Chocolate Syrup: A drizzle adds a rich, indulgent touch to each slice.
- Caramel Sauce: Sweet and buttery caramel enhances the cake’s flavors beautifully.
Serving with Beverages
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee brings out the cake’s rich flavors.
- Milk: Classic and refreshing, milk is perfect for a nostalgic experience.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
To create the most delicious Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips to elevate your baking game.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps achieve a smoother batter and ensures even mixing.
- Alternate dry and wet ingredients: Adding flour and wet ingredients alternately keeps the batter light and fluffy.
- Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents dense cake; stop as soon as you see no flour streaks.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean for perfect baking.
- Let it cool before glazing: Allowing the cake to cool prevents the glaze from melting off, preserving its beautiful finish.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
Serving side dishes alongside Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that contrasts nicely with the pound cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness that balances the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats pair well by adding an elegant touch to your dessert table.
- Cheesecake Bites: Small portions of cheesecake bring creamy goodness that complements peanut butter flavor.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and pairs wonderfully with any creamy additions.
- Sweet Tea: This Southern staple enhances flavor while providing refreshment alongside dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and improves the cake’s texture.
- Skipping the flour measurement: Accurate flour measurement is key. Too much flour can make the cake dense. Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method for precision.
- Not greasing the pan properly: Failing to grease and flour your bundt pan can lead to stuck cake. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny of the pan.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long after adding flour can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until combined for a tender pound cake.
- Ignoring bake time: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easier access.
Freezing Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for extra protection.
- It can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake:
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may alter the texture slightly because of different oil content.
How do I know when my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips will create a delightful flavor combination and add extra sweetness.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
This cake is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
How long does this cake last at room temperature?
At room temperature, it lasts about 2-3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich peanut butter flavor makes it both comforting and satisfying. Feel free to customize it by adding chocolate or nuts based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
Description
Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a heavenly dessert that perfectly marries the creamy richness of peanut butter with the delightful tang of cream cheese. This moist, dense cake not only satisfies sweet cravings but also stands out as an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Easy to prepare, it is ideal for birthdays, holiday feasts, or simply as an indulgent treat at home. Dress it up with a luscious glaze or serve it with ice cream and fresh fruits for a versatile dessert experience. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, each bite delivers a burst of nutty flavor and comfort.
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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together shortening, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually fold into the creamed mixture along with vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a platter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
