Name: Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond milk recommended); 1 cup sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 3/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter; 3/4 cup vegan butter, melted; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup unsalted vegan butter, softened; 1 cup smooth peanut butter; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups confectioners’ sugar; 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt; Peanuts for topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 2 reviews

If you adore the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter and want a dessert that’s both indulgent and completely plant-based, this Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe is going to steal your heart. Moist, tender, and bursting with authentic peanut flavor, this cake combines a perfectly fluffy crumb with a luscious, creamy frosting that will have you reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a fantastic treat to share with friends and family or savor as your new favorite comfort dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five bowls on a white marbled surface. The top right bowl is white and holds two long blocks of cream cheese, showing a smooth and soft texture. Below it and slightly to the left is a larger white bowl filled with a fine white powder, likely powdered sugar, with a light, fluffy look. To the right of this is a medium bowl filled with a thick, light brown mixture with small peanut pieces on top, possibly peanut butter. On the bottom left is a small wooden bowl with a small amount of salt, crystalline and white. On the bottom right is a tiny white bowl with a dark reddish-brown liquid, likely vanilla extract. The bowls and ingredients are neatly arranged on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic in this Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe lies in a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role in creating a moist texture, balanced sweetness, and that unmistakable peanut punch you crave.

Unsweetened non-dairy milk: Provides moisture and keeps the cake dairy-free; almond milk is a perfect choice for its mild flavor.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a tender crumb.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and complements the peanut butter beautifully.
Smooth natural peanut butter: The star ingredient adding creamy richness and authentic nutty taste.
Vegan butter: Adds moistness and richness, plus helps with the cake’s structure.
All-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and softness.
Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut flavor.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure the cake rises perfectly light and fluffy.
Confectioners’ sugar: Essential for a smooth, sweet frosting with the right consistency.
Peanuts for topping (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and extra peanut goodness on top.

How to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the unsweetened non-dairy milk, sugar, pure vanilla extract, smooth natural peanut butter, and melted vegan butter until mostly smooth. This combination creates the moist, flavorful base of your cake batter.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Batter

Next, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt to the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, so be sure to keep it light and airy.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake starts browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before gently removing it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely for at least 15 minutes—this helps the frosting adhere perfectly and keeps your cake moist.

Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

While the cake cools, beat together softened vegan butter, smooth peanut butter, vanilla extract, confectioners’ sugar, and a pinch of kosher salt until the frosting is smooth and creamy. This luscious frosting makes the Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe truly irresistible.

Step 7: Frost and Finish

Once the cake is fully cooled, generously spread the peanut butter frosting evenly on top. For an extra touch of texture and flair, sprinkle peanuts over the frosting if desired.

How to Serve Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

The image shows six square slices of a creamy peanut butter dessert arranged closely on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each slice has a thick, smooth layer of light tan peanut butter frosting spread on top, textured with soft swirls. Scattered unevenly atop the frosting on every slice are a small handful of mixed roasted peanuts, featuring light to medium brown shades and varied shapes and textures. The edges of the dessert are visible and slightly golden brown, creating a warm contrast to the creamy topping. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish can elevate your cake’s presentation and flavor. Chopped roasted peanuts bring a satisfying crunch, while a drizzle of melted dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter. Fresh berries also offer a bright contrast that complements the cake’s richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Consider serving this Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream to cool down the peanut butter’s richness. A warm cup of black coffee or herbal tea can also balance the sweetness and make for an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, cut the cake into small squares and serve as bite-sized desserts on a platter for parties. You can also layer the cake in a trifle dish with fresh banana slices and dairy-free yogurt for a stunning peanut butter parfait. Another fun option is to transform it into cupcakes with individual dollops of frosting and a single peanut on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe stays fresh when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled also helps the frosting stay firm and luscious.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layer wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then frost as usual. Frosted cake pieces can be frozen on a tray, then transferred to a container for quick, ready-to-eat treats later.

Reheating

For the best taste, enjoy the cake at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, microwave a slice for about 15 to 20 seconds, but avoid heating too long to keep the frosting from melting.

FAQs

Is this cake really vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe uses plant-based ingredients like non-dairy milk and vegan butter to keep everything free from animal products without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?

While peanut butter provides that classic nutty richness, you can try almond or cashew butter for a different twist. Keep in mind that flavors and textures will vary slightly.

What if I don’t have vegan butter?

You can substitute vegan butter with coconut oil, but it might subtly change the flavor and texture. Make sure it’s solid at room temperature for best results.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, but swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You may need to adjust the baking time and check for doneness carefully.

How do I keep the frosting from getting too soft?

Use chilled vegan butter and confectioners’ sugar and frost the cake once it’s completely cooled. Refrigerate if your kitchen is warm to help the frosting set.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh, this Vegan Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe is the answer. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent to brighten your day. Dive in and share this delight with your loved ones—you’re going to love every bite!