Decadent Chocolate Caramel Peanut Layer Cake – A Sweet Slice of Heaven

Introduction

Indulge in a dessert that will delight your senses with this Decadent Chocolate Caramel Peanut Layer Cake. This irresistible cake features layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy caramel filling, and a crunchy peanut topping, all drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for any celebration or when you simply want to treat yourself, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s explore how to create this incredible dessert from scratch!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water (or brewed coffee for extra depth of flavor)

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

For the Peanut Crunch Topping:

• 1 cup (120g) roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1 cup (120g) caramelized sugar (from the caramel sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually add the boiling water (or brewed coffee), stirring until fully incorporated. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly fine.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden amber color.
2. Add the butter and stir until it is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously (the mixture will bubble up).
4. Once smooth, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
5. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Crunch Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the roasted chopped peanuts with some of the cooled caramel sauce (around 3-4 tbsp). Stir until the peanuts are evenly coated in caramel.
2. Set the mixture aside to use as a topping later.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes have completely cooled, place the first layer of cake on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous layer of the caramel filling over the first cake layer.
3. Place the second layer of cake on top and gently press it down.
4. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
5. Scatter the peanut crunch mixture evenly over the top, creating a delightful contrast of texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

• Keep the Cake Moist: If you want to make the cake even more moist, lightly brush the cake layers with a simple syrup or a little extra caramel sauce before adding the filling.
• Make-Ahead: Both the caramel sauce and the peanut topping can be made in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat the caramel before using.
• Serve Clean Slices: To ensure clean slices, use a hot knife when cutting through the layers of this cake.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement its richness.
• A nice glass of dessert wine, such as a sweet Riesling, will complement the caramel and chocolate beautifully.
• This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests with a show-stopping dessert.

Conclusion

This Decadent Chocolate Caramel Peanut Layer Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth. With its rich, moist chocolate cake, creamy caramel filling, and crunchy peanut topping, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and enjoy every decadent bite!