Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake

Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese in a moist, dense cake. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence, this cake stands out with its creamy texture and nutty taste. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack with coffee, this pound cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and cream cheese creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up effortlessly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, topped with icing, or paired with ice cream for an extra special treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake is suitable for birthdays, holidays, or casual family dinners.
• Keeps Well: Enjoy delicious leftovers; this cake stays fresh for several days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are the must-have items you’ll need for preparing Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixer
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Bundt pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixer: A quality mixer ensures that your batter is well-blended for optimal texture.
• Bundt pan: This specific pan shape adds an elegant presentation to your cake while allowing even baking.

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 yet.

Step 2: Creaming the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, use a mixer to combine:
2. butter flavored solid shortening
3. unsalted butter
4. cream cheese

5. crunchy peanut butter

6. Beat until smooth. Gradually add:

7. sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.

8. Add eggs one at a time, ensuring you beat well after each addition.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together:
– all-purpose flour
– baking powder
– salt

1. Gradually add this flour mixture to the creamed mixture and blend well.
2. Finally, mix in:
3. vanilla extract

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
2. Place it in a cold oven.
3. 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 the cake cools:
1. Mix together:
– sweetened condensed milk
– peanut butter
– milk

1. Stir until smooth and pour over cooled cake once it’s removed from the pan.

Enjoy your homemade 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 hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and complement the richness of the cake.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas provide a sweet contrast and enhance the peanut butter taste.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the cake’s density with creamy sweetness.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this combination creates an indulgent dessert experience.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Rich Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle adds an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the peanut butter.
• Caramel Sauce: This sweet addition creates a luxurious experience, enhancing every bite.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop brings airiness and lightness to the dense cake.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or cinnamon for a twist on traditional whipped cream.

Garnish with Nuts

• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle crunchy peanuts on top for added texture and flavor contrast.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans elevate the cake’s nuttiness and provide delightful crunch.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake

Achieving the perfect Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Cream Thoroughly: Beat the butter mixture until light and fluffy; this helps create a lighter cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix just until combined to prevent a dense texture.
• Cool Gradually: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before inverting; this helps maintain structure and prevents breakage.
• Adjust Baking Time: Check for doneness early; ovens vary, so your cake may need less or more time than stated.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake

Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake pairs well with several side dishes that can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies add variety and are always a crowd-pleaser alongside any dessert.
3. Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing your tasting experience.
4. Custard: A smooth custard sauce creates a creamy base that works wonderfully with each slice of cake.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a different texture while remaining rich and satisfying.
6. Pudding: Chocolate or vanilla pudding adds moisture and an indulgent addition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the outcome of your cake. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing and flouring the bundt pan can cause your cake to stick. Always prepare your pan before pouring in the batter.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a fluffier texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring bake time: Every oven is different. Always check your cake with a toothpick towards the end of the suggested baking time.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat slices for 15-20 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake different?

Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake stands out due to its rich peanut butter flavor combined with creamy textures from butter and cream cheese, making it incredibly moist.

Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy?

Absolutely! Using smooth peanut butter will give you a more uniform texture, while crunchy adds delightful bits of peanut for extra crunch.

How do I know when my Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It should also have risen nicely and have a golden-brown appearance.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and make your Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake even more delicious.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate, or even fruits. This cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. Try it today and enjoy every slice!