Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Galaxy Cake

Instructions

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
• Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
• Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin). Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter together until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more cream if needed.

3. Assemble the Cake

• Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
• Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter frosting on top.
• Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides with the remaining peanut butter frosting, smoothing it out as you go.

4. Create the Galaxy Effect

• Divide the frosting into separate bowls and color each with black, purple, blue, and pink food coloring.
• Using a spatula or a knife, dollop the colored frosting around the cake, blending it slightly to create a galaxy effect.
• For added sparkle, sprinkle edible glitter over the top and sides of the cake.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Finish the cake by topping it with chopped chocolate peanut butter cups for a delightful crunch.
• Slice and serve this heavenly treat to your guests, watching their eyes light up as they experience the delightful flavors and stunning presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Galaxy Cake

• Chill the Cake: If the frosting becomes too soft while decorating, chill the cake briefly to firm it up before continuing.
• Make It Ahead: The chocolate cake can be baked a day in advance, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and stored at room temperature until ready to frost and assemble.
• Creative Variations: Experiment with different colors for the galaxy effect or use additional toppings like chocolate ganache or whipped cream for added flair.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Galaxy Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and creativity. This cake is bound to be the star of any gathering, offering a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, topped with a stunning galaxy design. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake promises to satisfy every sweet craving and leave your guests in awe. Dive into the cosmic indulgence and enjoy every heavenly bite!