Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

A Nostalgic Slice of Homemade Comfort

If you’re someone who finds comfort in vintage desserts and timeless flavor combinations, this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake is about to become your new favorite treat. Moist, rich, and loaded with creamy peanut butter goodness in both the cake and the frosting, it’s the kind of classic dessert that instantly transports you back to simpler times—perhaps your grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of fresh-baked cakes would fill the air.

Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just someone looking to whip up a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. It strikes the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, with a tender crumb and a melt-in-your-mouth frosting that’s dangerously good. Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a nostalgic weeknight treat, this cake is a staple every baker should have in their repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake

  • Easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
  • Versatile – perfect as a casual treat or a showstopper dessert.
  • Rich, creamy frosting takes it over the top.
  • Nostalgic and comforting, yet appealing to modern palates.
  • Ready in under an hour and feeds a crowd!

This cake is especially perfect for peanut butter lovers. If Reese’s are your jam or peanut butter cookies never last long in your kitchen, this one’s for you. It’s also an excellent alternative to the usual chocolate or vanilla cakes when you’re craving something a little different.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.

3. Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to getting a soft, moist cake.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, and mix just until everything is combined.

6. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool Completely

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

8. Make the Frosting

In a bowl, cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

9. Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into squares and serve!

Tips and Variations

  • Crunchy twist: Use crunchy peanut butter in either the cake or frosting for added texture.
  • Chocolate drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for a peanut butter cup vibe.
  • Cupcake version: Turn this into cupcakes by adjusting the baking time to 18–22 minutes.
  • Nut-free option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version—great for those with allergies.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator: Will keep for up to a week in an airtight container, although the texture may firm up a bit in the fridge.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings

  • Drink: Pair with a cold glass of milk, a creamy latte, or even a hot cup of black coffee for the ultimate comfort treat.
  • Food: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside fresh fruit for a light contrast to the cake’s richness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

It’s best to use traditional creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) for optimal texture. Natural peanut butter can separate and may affect the consistency of both the cake and frosting.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Can I halve the recipe?

Absolutely. Halve all ingredients and use an 8×8 inch pan. Adjust the baking time to around 25-28 minutes and keep an eye on doneness.

A Slice of Nostalgia, a Taste to Remember

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a delicious throwback to the kind of homemade, heartfelt baking that never goes out of style. From the moist crumb to the indulgent frosting, every bite is a love letter to classic American baking.

So whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself to something sweet and soul-warming, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your fellow peanut butter lovers and subscribe to our blog for more timeless treats and modern twists on classic favorites!

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