Peanut Butter Sundae Cake
A rich and indulgent peanut butter sundae cake features moist layers with peanut butter and caramel-like sweetness, perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- In an ungreased 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan, stir in flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix in milk, oil, and vanilla with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in peanut butter and spread evenly in the pan.
- Sprinkle with 3/4 cup brown sugar.
- Pour 1 3/4 cups hot water over the batter.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Spoon onto dessert plates or cut into squares.
- Top with ice cream and spoon sauce over each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. If you're out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar and a little molasses. Ensure you spread the peanut butter evenly for consistent texture. If you prefer a chocolate twist, add chocolate chips to the batter before baking, which pairs beautifully with the Peanut Butter Sundae Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best served warm, topped with a scoop of your favorite ice cream and drizzled with chocolate or caramel sauce. For an extra touch, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for added crunch. It makes a fantastic dessert for gatherings and pairs wonderfully with coffee or milk. Consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Serve with fresh ice cream again for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Sundae Cake contains roughly 376 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1095mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before pouring hot water over it and baking. This will ensure even cooking and a fluffy texture.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can easily customize this cake by adding ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a layer of jam between the batter and the peanut butter. For a healthier version, try replacing half of the flour with whole wheat flour. Explore more American recipes for additional ideas.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the Peanut Butter Sundae Cake without compromising on taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).