Name: Peanut Butter Mousse Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¾ cup canola oil; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 cup hot water; 2 tablespoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 6 large eggs (at room temperature, separated); 1 cup granulated sugar (divided); 1 cup cake flour; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 2 cups creamy peanut butter; 28 ounces cream cheese (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons vanilla extract; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

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If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that will leave your guests in awe, look no further than this luscious Peanut Butter Mousse Cake. With its rich layers of chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter mousse, and silky chocolate ganache, this cake is the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for special occasions or simply to treat yourself, this cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The Peanut Butter Mousse Cake is a dessert that checks all the boxes: it’s decadent, visually impressive, and incredibly satisfying to eat. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic pairing that never fails to please. The light and airy mousse balances out the dense chocolate cake, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Plus, who can resist the allure of a dessert that features a rich chocolate ganache? This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a showstopper that will wow anyone who sees it.

Shopping List

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¾ cup canola oil
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup hot water
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
6 large eggs at room temperature, separated
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 cup cake flour
1 ½ cups heavy cream
2 cups creamy peanut butter
28 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Hardware & Gadgets

Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
Electric mixer – to achieve fluffy mousse and smooth batter.
Measuring cups and spoons – precision is key in baking!
Rubber spatula – for folding in ingredients and scraping down bowls.
Cake pans – two 9-inch round pans work perfectly for this recipe.
Cooling rack – essential for cooling the cakes properly.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate.

Mastering Peanut Butter Mousse Cake: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, eggs, milk, hot water, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mousse

In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add ½ cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Fold in the whipped egg whites carefully to maintain the airy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once the chocolate cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter mousse over the top, then gently place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining mousse on top and around the sides of the cake.

Step 6: Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a double boiler or microwave, melt the semi-sweet chocolate with 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 tablespoon of butter until smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over the assembled cake. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results, allowing the mousse to set. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy the layers of chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter mousse!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

Top with fresh berries in the spring for a fresh twist.
Add a sprinkle of crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet contrast.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Decorate with chopped nuts for added crunch during the fall and winter months.

Pro Tips & Notes

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth mousse.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the ganache.
If you prefer a sweeter mousse, adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste.
Make sure to fold the egg whites gently into the mousse to keep it light and airy.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

The Peanut Butter Mousse Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make it in advance, you can freeze the assembled cake for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Quick Q&A

Can I use natural peanut butter for the mousse?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly. Make sure it’s well-stirred and smooth for best results.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the mousse?

You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative, but the texture may be slightly different.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease and flour your cake pans thoroughly, or use parchment paper for an extra layer of protection.

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Final Thoughts

Indulging in a slice of Peanut Butter Mousse Cake is an experience that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in an unforgettable way. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is truly a masterpiece. With its fluffy mousse, decadent cake, and glossy ganache, it’s a dessert that will impress everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the baking magic begin!