As I pulled my Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll from the oven, the rich aroma of chocolate and peanut butter enveloped the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café setting. This delightful dessert is not just a feast for the senses but also incredibly simple to make—perfect for home chefs eager to elevate their dessert game. The beauty of this cake roll lies in its tender, chocolatey sponge wrapped around a creamy, peanut buttery filling, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a comforting treat for a quiet night in. Plus, with minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll find it both accessible and rewarding to whip up. Ready to make your kitchen the happiest place on Earth with this indulgent twist on a classic? Let’s dive in!
Why is this cake roll a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates an explosion of taste that will leave you craving more.
Easy to Make: With simple instructions, even novice bakers can impress friends and family in no time.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights at home—this cake roll fits every occasion!
Decadent Yet Light: Enjoy a guilt-free indulgence with reduced-fat ingredients, making it a smart treat.
Visual Appeal: Roll it up and watch as it transforms into a stunning centerpiece that looks as good as it tastes!
Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll Ingredients
• Gather these delightful components!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – the base for a tender sponge.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – adds rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder – ensures the cake rises perfectly.
- Salt – enhances the sweetness and flavor profile.
- Large eggs – binds ingredients and adds moisture.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture.
- Vanilla extract – deepens the overall flavor of the cake.
- Low-fat milk – keeps the batter moist without excess calories.
For the Filling
- Reduced-fat cream cheese – creamy base for a luscious filling.
- Powdered peanut butter – delivers rich peanut flavor with less fat (or use regular creamy peanut butter).
- Powdered sugar – adds sweetness and helps thicken the filling.
- Vanilla extract – elevates the taste of the filling.
- Skim milk – helps achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
For Optional Toppings
- Dark chocolate – creates an indulgent drizzle if desired.
- Coconut oil or light butter – adds a silky texture to the melted chocolate.
Dive into these ingredients, and you'll soon find the joy of creating a Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll that's as beautiful as it is delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll
Step 1: Prepare to Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan, line it with parchment paper, and lightly coat it with cooking spray. This will help your Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll release easily after baking, ensuring a smooth finish as you work your way through this delightful dessert.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This mixture will create a rich chocolate base for your cake. Make sure there are no lumps for an even texture, allowing the aromas of chocolate to fill your kitchen as you prepare.
Step 3: Whip Up the Batter
In a separate large bowl, beat together 4 large eggs, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture becomes thick and pale, approximately 3 minutes. Stir in ¼ cup of low-fat milk, and then gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. This batter is the heart of your Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll, with a beautiful texture ready to be baked.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Carefully pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly in all corners. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Keep an eye on it; the goal is a moist yet firm texture, perfect for rolling later!
Step 5: Cool and Roll the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel off the parchment paper. Starting from the short end, carefully roll the cake together with the towel. This helps shape the roll and prevents cracking. Allow it to cool completely in this position.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of softened reduced-fat cream cheese, ¼ cup of powdered peanut butter, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of skim milk until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what makes your Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll irresistible, with a texture that complements the cake perfectly.
Step 7: Assemble the Roll
Unroll the cooled cake gently, taking care not to crack it. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly across the surface of the cake. Once the filling is spread, roll the cake back up without the towel, ensuring a tight and smooth roll. Wrap your creation in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set beautifully.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
If desired, melt 2 oz of dark chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or light butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Drizzle this decadent mixture over the chilled Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll before serving. This optional step adds a delightful touch that enhances both the flavor and presentation of your delicious creation!
Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll Variations
Feel free to explore these tempting twists and options to make your cake roll uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy. The texture will still be delightful!
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Nut-Free: Use sun butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter for those with nut allergies while still maintaining that creamy, rich flavor.
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Vegan: Swap eggs for flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use almond milk and a plant-based cream cheese for a vegan-friendly treat. The flavors will still shine through!
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Fruity Surprise: Add a layer of thinly sliced bananas or strawberries inside the roll before spreading the filling—this fruity twist will add freshness and a pop of color!
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the batter for an extra chocolatey explosion. They melt beautifully and add a delightful surprise in each bite.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling—it creates a quirky contrast to the sweetness. It’s an adventurous twist that’s sure to impress!
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Creamy Decadence: Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for an even richer filling. This will elevate the creaminess, making every bite a heavenly treat.
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Frosted Finish: Top the rolled cake with whipped cream or a light cream cheese frosting after chilling, adding an extra layer of sweetness and elegance to your dessert. Enjoy the fluffy contrast!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll
- Room Temperature: The Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days; use an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolled cake wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Reheating: If you prefer it warm, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm, but avoid overheating to maintain the texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Cup Cake Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and then rolling it up with the towel to cool. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its moisture and prevent drying out. The filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, spread the filling, re-roll, and chill for at least 1 hour before drizzling with melted chocolate. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready without any last-minute fuss!
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll
- Cake Texture: Ensure your cake batter is mixed just until combined to maintain a light and airy texture while baking.
- Cooling Trick: Rolling the cake while warm in a kitchen towel prevents it from cracking, so don’t skip this step!
- Filling Consistency: Be sure to achieve a creamy filling that spreads easily. Adjust skim milk if necessary for perfect texture.
- Chilling Time: Allow the cake to chill for at least 1 hour; this helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate slowly and drizzle it just before serving for an eye-catching finish that elevates your Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll
Imagine an enchanting family gathering filled with laughter, the air rich with the aroma of chocolate and peanut butter, perfectly complemented by delightful side dishes.
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Berry Compote: A vibrant mix of berries adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cake and enhancing your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the dish, creating a classic combination that's hard to resist.
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Espresso: A shot of bold espresso intensifies the flavors, offering a delightful pick-me-up that pairs beautifully with the indulgence of the cake.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce brings a luscious sweetness that harmonizes with the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
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Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the texture, adding a creamy layer to each slice.
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Chocolate Dip Strawberries: These make a charming finger food accompaniment that complements your cake roll, enhancing the chocolatey delight of the overall dessert.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit medley brings brightness and a hint of acidity, providing a fresh counterpoint to the rich flavors.
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Nutty Granola: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some nutty granola on top for added flavor complexity and a satisfying bite.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink option, sparkling lemonade adds a zesty sparkiness, enhancing the overall lightness of your dessert feast.
Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, when selecting your eggs, opt for large, fresh eggs that feel heavy and have clean, uncracked shells—this often indicates freshness. As for the cream cheese, it should be softened but cold enough to maintain its shape. If you're using regular creamy peanut butter instead of powdered peanut butter, ensure it's smooth and free of any dark spots or oil separation, which can indicate staleness.
How should I store my Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll?
Very! You can keep your Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll at room temperature for up to 2 days by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. If you’d like to enjoy it longer, move it to the fridge, where it can last for up to 5 days in an airtight container, keeping it moist and delicious.
Can I freeze my Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For a delightful twist, you can warm slices briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they don’t get too hot—nobody likes a rubbery cake!
What if my cake cracks while rolling?
Oh, don’t worry—this can happen to even the best bakers! If your cake cracks, it’s often due to rolling it while it’s too cold or not following the cooling step. If it does crack, you can still fix it! Just gently press the edges together and cover with the filling, smoothing it out. Once rolled up, no one will know, and it will still taste divine!
Is this cake recipe safe for those with allergies?
Very! It’s important to be mindful of allergies. This recipe contains eggs and dairy products, so if you or your guests have specific dietary restrictions (like nut allergies), you might consider substituting the peanut butter with sunbutter and ensuring all ingredients are allergen-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to be safe. If you’re serving pets, please keep this treat away from them! Peanut butter is generally safe, but sugar and chocolate can be harmful to dogs.
Indulge in Peanut Butter Cup Cake Roll Bliss Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan, line it with parchment paper, and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat together 4 large eggs, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until thick and pale, about 3 minutes. Stir in ¼ cup of low-fat milk, then gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Carefully pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven and invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll the cake with the towel and let it cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of softened reduced-fat cream cheese, ¼ cup of powdered peanut butter, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of skim milk until smooth.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread the peanut butter filling evenly. Roll the cake back up without the towel and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Melt 2 oz of dark chocolate with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or light butter and drizzle over the chilled cake before serving.
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