Peanut Butter Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Hey there, fellow food lover! If you adore peanut butter and have a soft spot for the cozy, crumbly goodness of coffee cake, then you’re in for a real treat. Imagine waking up to the smell of warm cake wafting through your kitchen, infused with that irresistible nutty peanut butter flavor, paired with a tender crumb and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping. Yes, peanut butter and coffee cake-two classics, joined in perfect harmony.

This isn’t just any coffee cake; it’s a peanut butter coffee cake that’s moist, flavorful, and downright comforting. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast star, an afternoon snack to pair with your favorite cup of joe, or a sweet treat for guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. So let’s dive in, shall we?

Peanut Butter Coffee Cake Recipe

Let’s get down to business. This peanut butter coffee cake combines the richness of peanut butter with the tender texture of classic coffee cake. Layers of peanut butter-infused batter are topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel that crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating the perfect sweet-nutty contrast. Every bite melts in your mouth, and you’ll be sneaking second (or third) helpings before you know it.

Ingredients Needed

Before we get our hands messy, here’s everything you’ll need to gather:

For The Cake Batter

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – the star of the show! Creamy works best for smooth incorporation.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – adds just the right sweetness.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – for moisture and a slight caramel undertone.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – brings richness and tenderness.
• 2 large eggs – bind everything together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the base structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – works with brown sugar for lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk – keeps the batter moist and soft.

For The Cinnamon Streusel Topping

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – for that crumbly texture.
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional) – for extra crunch and peanut punch!

How To Make Peanut Butter Coffee Cake

Alright, let’s get baking! Follow these steps carefully for the best results:

1. Preheat & Prep: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Streusel: In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped peanuts if you want a bit of texture. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy and fluffy – about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for that light, airy texture!
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Combine Wet & Dry: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the peanut butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently – don’t overdo it or your cake could turn tough.
7. Pour & Top: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over it.
8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with a fresh cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Here’s where things get nerdy but fun! Understanding why each ingredient matters will help you master this cake.

• Peanut Butter: Besides flavor, peanut butter adds fat and protein, which tenderize the crumb and boost moisture. The natural oils also help create a soft texture.
• Sugars: Granulated sugar gives sweetness and aeration when creamed with butter, while brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor due to its molasses content.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb by coating flour proteins and limiting gluten formation.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients, add structure, and trap air for lift.
• Baking Powder & Soda: Work together to make the cake rise-baking soda reacts with acidic brown sugar, creating bubbles that make the cake fluffy.
• Milk: Adds moisture and activates the leavening agents, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Streusel Topping: The cold butter in the streusel melts in the oven, creating a crisp, crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

Expert Tips

Ready for some pro tricks to make this cake next-level?

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temp for better mixing and fluffier texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your cake tender.
• Streusel Variety: Feel free to toss in some brown sugar or cinnamon variations to adjust sweetness and spice to your liking.
• Pan Prep: If you don’t want to fuss with greasing and flouring, parchment paper liners make cleanup a breeze and help the cake slide right out.
• Check Early: Ovens vary! Start checking your cake around 28 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. This cake also freezes well!

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up or cater to different tastes? Try these variations:

• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Swap creamy for crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for allergy-friendly options.
• Fruit Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped bananas or blueberries for added freshness.
• Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and dairy-free butter/milk substitutes to make it vegan-friendly.

Final Words

This peanut butter coffee cake is truly a crowd-pleaser – it’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any time of day. The balance of nutty richness and cinnamon sweetness will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend brunch or a casual get-together, this cake brings comfort and smiles in every slice.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make A Peanut Butter Coffee Cake?

To make a peanut butter coffee cake, you will need all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, peanut butter (smooth or crunchy), butter, and optional toppings like chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or a crumbly streusel topping.

Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter In This Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well before using. Natural peanut butter may be a bit more oily than regular peanut butter, so you might need to adjust the amount of butter or flour to get the right consistency.

How Do I Make The Crumbly Topping For The Peanut Butter Coffee Cake?

To make the crumbly topping, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture forms small crumbs. You can also add chopped peanuts or oats for extra texture and flavor.

Can I Substitute The Milk With A Dairy-free Alternative?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with any dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Make sure to choose an unsweetened version to avoid altering the taste of the cake.

What Type Of Peanut Butter Works Best For This Coffee Cake?

Smooth peanut butter works best for a uniform texture in the cake batter. If you prefer more texture, you can use crunchy peanut butter, but keep in mind it may alter the consistency and crumb of the cake.

How Can I Make The Peanut Butter Flavor More Pronounced In The Coffee Cake?

To enhance the peanut butter flavor, you can increase the amount of peanut butter in the recipe or add a tablespoon of peanut butter extract. Additionally, a peanut butter glaze or drizzle can be added on top of the cake once it’s baked.

Can I Freeze Peanut Butter Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze peanut butter coffee cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

How Long Does It Take To Bake A Peanut Butter Coffee Cake?

Typically, a peanut butter coffee cake takes around 35 to 45 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times may vary depending on the size of your pan and your oven, so it’s best to check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I Make This Recipe Into Cupcakes Instead Of A Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can easily turn this recipe into peanut butter coffee cake cupcakes. Pour the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

How Can I Add A Chocolate Element To This Peanut Butter Coffee Cake?

To add a chocolate element, you can incorporate chocolate chips into the batter or swirl melted chocolate into the cake for a marbled effect. A chocolate glaze or ganache on top would also be a delicious addition.