Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is a delightful twist on a classic childhood favorite. Imagine the rich, nutty aroma of peanut butter wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of jelly as it bakes to golden perfection. You can almost taste the nostalgia in every bite.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just because you want a slice of happiness. With each forkful, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you back to carefree days filled with laughter and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is unbelievably easy to prepare, making it perfect for any baking novice.
- Its unique flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds with creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly.
- The vibrant layers create an eye-catching centerpiece for any occasion.
- Whether served at a birthday party or as an afternoon treat, this cake adapts to any event effortlessly.
I once made this cake for my nephew’s birthday, and his face lit up like it was Christmas morning after taking his first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour to create a fluffy texture that holds everything together perfectly.
Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that light and airy feel.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in the cake without being noticeable.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Opt for smooth peanut butter for consistent texture; crunchy can add an interesting twist if preferred.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your cake just right; adjust according to your sweetness preference.
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
Milk: Whole milk adds moisture; feel free to substitute with nut milk for a dairy-free version.
Your Favorite Jelly or Jam: Choose any flavor you love; grape and strawberry are classics that always please!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round 9-inch cake pans. This ensures easy removal later on.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step lays a solid foundation for your cake.
Create the Batter Base: In another bowl, mix sugar and creamy peanut butter until smooth and fluffy. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add Milk Gradually: Pour in milk while mixing until fully incorporated. The batter should be silky and luscious—oh-so-inviting!
Fold in Dry Ingredients Carefully: Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into your wet mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to maintain that airy texture you desire.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Once cooled, spread jelly between layers before frosting with creamy peanut butter frosting or whipped cream! Enjoy every bite of nostalgia wrapped in this delightful treat.
You Must Know
- Mastering the Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is all about balancing flavors and textures.
- The creamy peanut butter with sweet jelly creates a delightful treat that everyone will love.
- Be sure to let it cool completely before serving for the best taste experience.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, bake the cake layers first, then prepare the frosting while they cool. This method saves time and ensures your cake is fully assembled in no time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist. Adding some chopped nuts will also elevate the texture and flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week; simply allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- The Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake shines when both flavors are balanced properly; too much jelly can overpower it.
- Use quality ingredients for richer flavors; natural peanut butter works wonders.
- Always measure carefully to ensure even baking and great texture in every slice.
Creating this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake reminds me of my childhood, where I often snuck spoonfuls of jam straight from the jar when my mom wasn’t looking.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
What’s the best jelly to use?
Use any favorite jelly or jam; grape and strawberry are classic choices.
How do I make this cake gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free baking blend for delicious results.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake
Peanut Butter & Jelly Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings together the rich flavor of creamy peanut butter and the delightful sweetness of jelly. This moist cake is perfect for celebrations or a simple afternoon snack, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. With its beautiful layers and easy preparation, this recipe guarantees smiles with every slice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk (or nut milk)
- 1/2 cup jelly or jam (your favorite flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the peanut butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Gradually mix in the milk until smooth, then fold in the dry ingredients gently.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
- Once cooled, layer with jelly and frost as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider using crunchy peanut butter. Substitute almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or refrigerate for up to one week.







