Name: Heavenly Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared according to package instructions); 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; ½ cup crushed peanuts; Optional: chocolate bars or peanut butter cups for garnish

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Introduction

This Heavenly Chocolate Peanut Butter Ooey Gooey Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. Rich, decadent layers of chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and silky dark chocolate ganache come together in this indulgent dessert. Topped with crushed peanuts and optional candy garnish, it’s perfect for any special occasion.

A tall slice of chocolate cake with four distinct layers is shown on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The layers alternate between dark brown, moist chocolate cake and light brown creamy peanut butter filling. The top of the cake is covered with thick, shiny dark chocolate ganache that drips down the sides. Small clusters of peanuts and chocolate chips are scattered on the top, adding texture. The cake looks rich and indulgent with a mix of smooth, creamy, and crunchy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix (prepared according to package instructions)
1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
½ cup crushed peanuts
Optional: chocolate bars or peanut butter cups for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cake by baking the chocolate cake according to the instructions on the box, using two 8-inch round cake pans. Let the cakes cool completely.
Step 2: Make the filling by beating the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and powdered sugar, mixing until well blended and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the cake by placing one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the peanut butter filling generously over the top, then add the second cake layer on top.
Step 4: Make the ganache by heating the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just starts to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Smooth it out gently with a spatula.
Step 6: Garnish the cake by sprinkling crushed peanuts on top. Add chocolate bars or peanut butter cups if desired for extra indulgence.
Step 7: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a crunchier texture, toast the crushed peanuts before sprinkling on top.
Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet filling, adjusting powdered sugar to taste.
Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer filling.
Try milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache if you prefer a sweeter topping.
Make mini versions by using cupcake pans and layering smaller amounts of filling and ganache.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to soften slightly. Leftover slices can be reheated briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back some of the gooey texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a thick slice of chocolate cake with three layers of dark, moist chocolate sponge separated by two layers of creamy peanut butter filling. The cake is covered in a shiny, dark chocolate ganache that drips down the sides. The top layer is decorated with a mix of whole and chopped peanut butter cups, adding texture and color. The slice sits on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of box mix?

Absolutely! Any chocolate cake recipe you prefer will work well. Just make sure to bake two 8-inch layers for assembling the cake.

How do I prevent the ganache from seizing?

Be sure to pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. Stir gently until smooth. Avoid overheating the chocolate directly, and use good-quality chocolate for best results.