The Sweet Nostalgic Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake Recipe

Nostalgic memories dance through this delightful peanut butter & jelly cake that bridges childhood comfort with grown-up sophistication.

Sweet strawberry jam swirls between soft layers of tender cake.

Creamy peanut butter frosting adds rich complexity to every delectable bite.

Unexpected textures create a playful dessert experience that sparks conversation.

Classic sandwich flavors emerge in an elegant presentation sure to impress.

Baking becomes an adventure when familiar ingredients transform into something magical.

You’ll want to slice into this crowd-pleasing treat and savor each remarkable moment.

Sweet Things About PB&J Cake

• Transforms the classic childhood sandwich into an elegant, delightful dessert that sparks warm memories and brings playful joy to any gathering.
• Requires basic baking skills with straightforward steps, making it accessible for home bakers of all experience levels who want to create something special without complicated techniques.
• Combines beloved peanut butter and jelly flavors in a cake format, guaranteeing universal appeal for both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be excited to taste this unique dessert.
• Involves simple mixing and layering techniques that can be completed within a short timeframe, perfect for spontaneous baking adventures or last-minute dessert needs.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake Ingredient List

• All-Purpose Flour: A fundamental dry ingredient that provides structure to the cake.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

• Peanut Butter: Adds rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the cake.
• Butter: Provides moisture and contributes to the cake's tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a soft texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the cake's flavor.
• Milk: Provides moisture and helps create a smooth batter.

• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet frosting.
• Jelly: Adds a fruity layer of flavor between the cake layers.
• Peanut Butter, Butter: Form the base of the creamy frosting.
• Milk: Helps adjust the frosting's consistency.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350F (175C).

Prepare two round cake pans by giving them a light coating of grease and dusting of flour, or line them with parchment paper for easy cake removal.

Step 2: Blend the Dry Components

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they’re perfectly combined and free of lumps.

Step 3: Create a Creamy Peanut Butter Base

In a separate large bowl, whip the peanut butter and softened butter until they become silky smooth.

Gradually sprinkle in the sugar, mixing thoroughly.

Crack in the eggs one by one, then splash in the vanilla extract, stirring until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Marry the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and milk to your peanut butter blend.

Start with flour and end with flour, mixing gently until just combined.

Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

Slide the pans into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Let the cakes rest in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Whip Up the Frosting

While the cakes cool, create the frosting by beating peanut butter and softened butter together.

Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until you achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Build Your Cake Layers

Once the cakes are completely cool, place the first layer on your serving plate.

Spread a generous layer of jelly across the top, followed by a smooth layer of peanut butter frosting.

Carefully position the second cake layer on top, then frost the entire cake – top and sides.

Step 8: Slice and Celebrate

Cut into this nostalgic dessert and enjoy the perfect blend of childhood flavors in every bite!

Tips to Help Your PB&J Cake Turn Out Right

• Let butter sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free creaming with peanut butter.
• Use parchment paper circles in pan bottoms for guaranteed easy cake release and perfect shape preservation.
• Select high-fruit-content berry jam or preserves for intense, authentic flavor that complements the rich peanut butter layers.
• Add milk gradually to powdered sugar mixture, stopping when frosting reaches spreadable texture that holds peaks without being too runny.
• Chill cake for 15-20 minutes before cutting to achieve neat, clean slices without frosting smearing or crumbling.

How to Store and Reheat Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake

• Store covered cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep in the refrigerator to maintain frosting's texture and prevent spoilage.
• Wrap entirely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Place individual slices in sealed containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated for 3-5 days. Consume within recommended timeframe.
• Warm cake slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Microwave briefly (10-15 seconds) for slightly warm texture, but avoid overheating to prevent drying out.

What Goes Well with PB&J Cake

• Pair with Smooth Milk Stout: Rich, creamy dark beer complements the cake's nutty and sweet profile, creating a velvety dessert experience that balances the peanut butter's richness.
• Complement with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Cold, smooth vanilla ice cream cuts through the cake's dense texture, providing a refreshing contrast and enhancing the nostalgic PB&J flavor memories.
• Match with Raspberry Moscato: Sweet, light wine echoes the jelly's fruity notes while its delicate bubbles cleanse the palate between each decadent cake bite, creating a harmonious dessert pairing.
• Serve with Cold Glass of Whole Milk: Classic childhood drink perfectly mirrors the cake's comfort food essence, delivering a creamy backdrop that softens the peanut butter's intensity and ties together all flavor elements.

PB&J Cake Style Ideas to Explore

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour to create a celiac-friendly cake that maintains the classic PB&J flavor profile.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based butter, and select dairy-free milk to transform the recipe into a completely vegan dessert that's creamy and rich.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free jelly to reduce overall sugar content while keeping the cake's delicious taste.
• Nut-Free Adaptation: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for those with nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy this nostalgic dessert.

FAQs

• Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well and choose a brand that isn’t too runny. Conventional creamy peanut butter works best for consistent texture and binding.

• How do I prevent the cake from being dry?

Don’t overmix the batter and be careful not to overbake. Check the cake around 25 minutes and remove it from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.

• What type of jelly works best for this cake?

Grape or strawberry jelly are classic choices that complement the peanut butter flavor. Choose a smooth, seedless jelly for easier spreading and a cleaner cake appearance.

• Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free and check their labels carefully.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Childhood nostalgia meets gourmet baking in this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake, a delightful dessert that bridges comfort and creativity. Sweet raspberry jam and creamy peanut butter frosting elevate this classic sandwich into a memorable celebration you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients:

Main Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (473 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Main Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (237 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) of your favorite jelly (grape or strawberry)

Frosting Ingredients:

Main Components:

• 1 cup (240 ml) creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (454 g) powdered sugar

Liquid Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (adjust for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing, flouring, or lining with parchment paper.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and uniform. Gradually incorporate granulated sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs individually to the peanut butter mixture, blending completely after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until well integrated.
5. Alternately fold dry ingredients and milk into the peanut butter mixture, beginning and concluding with flour. Mix gently until just combined to maintain cake’s tender texture.
6. Evenly distribute batter between prepared pans, smoothing surfaces with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
7. Remove cakes from oven and allow to rest in pans for 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely.
8. Prepare frosting by beating peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until achieving a smooth, spreadable consistency.
9. Place first cake layer on serving plate. Spread a generous layer of jelly across the surface, followed by a smooth layer of peanut butter frosting.
10. Position second cake layer on top. Frost entire cake, covering top and sides evenly with remaining peanut butter frosting.
11. Slice and serve the decadent peanut butter and jelly cake, enjoying the nostalgic flavor combination.

Notes

• Choose natural, unsweetened peanut butter for a less sweet, more authentic flavor that enhances the cake’s richness.
• Room temperature ingredients ensure smoother mixing and a more consistent cake texture, preventing lumpy batter.
• For gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a blend of almond and gluten-free flour to maintain cake’s soft structure.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of frosting to balance sweetness and create a gourmet touch that elevates the classic PB&J flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 36 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg