Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 6-inch cake pans by greasing and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a heat-safe bowl, combine unsalted butter and semisweet baking chocolate. Melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk in granulated sugar and dark brown sugar until blended, mixture will be warm but not hot.
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Combine these dry ingredients evenly.
- Whisk in the eggs one at a time into the chocolate mixture, then add vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Beat together unsalted butter and peanut butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy.
- Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a plate and spreading frosting on top. Repeat with the second layer and chill for 15 minutes.
- Prepare ganache by melting more chocolate with cream, stir until smooth and drizzle over frosted cake.
- Optionally, sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top for additional decoration and flavor.
Nutrition
Notes
Ensure eggs are at room temperature and let layers cool completely before frosting for best results.
