As I was scrolling through my favorite dessert blogs, a stunning Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll caught my eye, igniting an irresistible urge to recreate it. This delightful dessert features a moist chocolate sponge cake, lavishly filled with creamy peanut butter frosting and dotted with crunchy peanut butter cups, all topped with a rich chocolate ganache. What I love most about this recipe is its surprising ease of preparation, making it an ideal indulgence for both celebrations and cozy evenings at home. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets! Can you imagine the delight when you slice into this beautiful roll, revealing the luscious layers within? Let’s dive into this treat together.
Why is This Chocolate Roll a Must-Try?
Delicious Layers: Each slice unveils a perfect blend of soft chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting, tempting even the toughest critics.
Versatile: Easily customize this recipe by switching to almond or cashew butter or experimenting with different chocolate variations for the ganache.
Quick Prep: With simple steps, you can whip up this show-stopping dessert in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with friends and family.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s an indulgent treat that will have everyone asking for seconds at your next gathering; imagine the smiles as they savor every bite!
Diet-Friendly Options: Whether you’re looking for gluten-free alternatives or vegan substitutions, this recipe adapts beautifully, ensuring everyone can join in on the deliciousness.
Looking for more delightful ideas? Check out my Peanut Butter Chicken or Garlic Butter Beef for perfect pairings!
Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free blend for dietary needs.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; swap for Dutch-process cocoa for a milder taste.
- Baking powder – Helps the cake rise; baking soda can also work if paired with an acid.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; don’t skip it!
- Large eggs – Adds moisture and binds ingredients; flax eggs are a great vegan substitute.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist; melted coconut oil adds a lovely flavor.
- Vanilla extract – Adds aromatic depth; consider almond extract for a twist.
- Milk – Moistens and binds; non-dairy milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free version.
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- Creamy peanut butter – Provides a rich and creamy filling; chunky peanut butter adds delightful texture.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens while keeping the filling smooth; try a sugar alternative for lower sugar options.
- Heavy cream – Adds richness to the filling; coconut cream is perfect for a non-dairy option.
- Chopped peanut butter cups – Bursts of flavor surprise in every slice; feel free to mix in different candies.
For the Ganache
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Forms the base for your luscious ganache; dark chocolate can create an even richer topping.
- Heavy cream – Richness is essential; use coconut cream for a dairy-free ganache.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, get excited to create this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring that it covers the bottom and sides for easy release. This step is crucial for your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll, as it will help the cake retain its shape while baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture will provide the structure and rich chocolate flavor to your roll. Set this bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Beat Eggs and Combine Liquid Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and creamy. Gradually mix in the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. This will add moisture and flavor to your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll, ensuring it remains luscious and enjoyable.
Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The goal is to maintain the batter’s airiness for a light texture. Once combined, you should see a rich, chocolatey batter ready to be spread into the pan.
Step 5: Bake the Chocolate Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it to reach the corners. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back after gently touching the surface. This crucial step ensures a soft and tender cake for your roll.
Step 6: Cool and Roll the Cake
Immediately remove the cake from the oven and turn it out onto a sugared kitchen towel. Carefully roll the cake up with the towel inside, creating a spiral. Let it cool completely in this position; this technique helps prevent cracking, ensuring a beautiful Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll.
Step 7: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar, then add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once ready, gently fold in the chopped peanut butter cups. This filling will create rich layers within your cake roll.
Step 8: Unroll and Fill the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it from the towel and spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up tightly without the towel, placing the seam side down. This step is key for achieving a gorgeous, spiral effect for your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll.
Step 9: Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy, creating a luxurious ganache that will top your chocolate roll.
Step 10: Drizzle and Chill
Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the assembled Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll, allowing it to flow down the sides for a stunning look. Place the roll in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the ganache. This final step will help the flavors meld and make slicing easier for serving.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll
Indulging in a slice of this chocolate delight opens the door to a world of delicious complementary treats perfect for any gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the chocolate and peanut butter flavors. A scoop alongside your roll creates a blissful combination.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries lend a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the roll, making each bite a little lighter and more vibrant.
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Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream complements the decadent nature of the roll, offering a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with each slice.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Serve extra ganache on the side for those who crave an even richer experience. The glossy sheen appeals visually and indulgently.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the dessert experience, bringing out the chocolate notes and making it a lovely way to finish off a cozy meal.
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Mint Tea: For a refreshing palate cleanser alongside the rich flavors, mint tea provides a soothing contrast, perfect for a light after-dinner sip.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Elevate the indulgence further with strawberries dipped in chocolate, offering a decadent yet fresh bite alongside the roll.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A small bowl of nutty trail mix introduces crunchy elements that echo the peanut butter within while providing a delightful texture contrast.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Why not go all out? A thick, rich chocolate milkshake will create a dessert experience that feels like a party in your mouth, sweet and satisfying.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll
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Eggs Matter: Beat your eggs until they are pale yellow—this crucial step helps the cake rise beautifully, ensuring a soft texture.
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Cool Completely: Make sure to cool the cake while it’s rolled up to maintain its flexibility. A properly cooled cake will prevent cracks when unrolling.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid over-mixing when folding in the dry ingredients. This preserves the airiness of the batter, which is key for a light, fluffy Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll.
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Custom Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Experiment with different nut butters or include a variety of candies for unique flavor twists in your roll.
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Ganache Magic: Ensure your cream is hot but not boiling when pouring over chocolate chips. This guarantees a luscious, smooth ganache that melts perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the chocolate sponge cake and cool it up to 24 hours in advance, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The peanut butter filling can also be mixed ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling, re-roll, and drizzle the ganache over the top. This way, you’ll get to enjoy a deliciously impressive dessert with minimal effort, even on hectic weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll
Room Temperature: Keep the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll in a cool, dry place for up to 1 day, covered with a clean kitchen towel for freshness.
Fridge: Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This preserves the cake’s moistness while allowing the flavors to develop further.
Freezer: Slice the roll and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for an easy dessert option whenever you crave it.
Reheating: Allow frozen slices to thaw overnight in the fridge. For a warm treat, gently heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delicious recipe your own!
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Nut Butters: Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings a unique twist, adding its own delightful essence.
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Crushed Nuts: Add crushed nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the filling for an extra crunch. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as white or dark chocolate. Each option will create a distinctly beautiful and flavorful cake.
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Vegan Twist: For a vegan version, use aquafaba instead of eggs and full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You won’t lose any lusciousness but gain a wonderful cruelty-free dessert!
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Sugar Alternatives: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative to lighten the sweetness. This can give the cake a lovely caramel flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
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Flavored Extracts: Try adding a splash of almond or hazelnut extract to the batter for an aromatic upgrade. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference in flavor!
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Fruity Surprise: Incorporate fresh fruits like banana or strawberries into the filling for a refreshing burst in each bite. Fruit adds a lovely contrasting taste that brightens the overall dessert.
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Spices for Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, mix in a dash of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the chocolate batter. This brings an unexpected warmth that plays beautifully against the sweetness of the chocolate.
This Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll is versatile and fun to customize! If you’re still craving more inspiration, don’t forget to check out my mouthwatering Grilled Cowboy Butter or indulgent Garlic Butter Steak for more delicious options!
Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for its perfect structure in the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll. If you’re gluten-sensitive, opt for a gluten-free flour blend, which retains a similar texture while accommodating dietary needs.
How should I store leftover rolls?
To keep your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping to maintain that delightful moisture!
Can I freeze this dessert for later?
Absolutely! Slice the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a treat, simply thaw a slice overnight in the fridge or gently reheat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What if my cake cracks when rolling it up?
No worries! If your cake does crack, it could be due to not cooling it fully while rolled, which helps retain flexibility. To avoid cracks, I suggest ensuring the cake is cool before unrolling. Also, if it does crack, just use some extra ganache to cover those imperfections when presenting—it’s all part of the charm!
Are there any substitutions for the ingredients?
Very! You can replace creamy peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor. If you need a dairy-free dessert, swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use plant-based milk. Sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or erythritol can also be used to adjust sweetness without the extra calories. Enjoy experimenting!
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll! Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) in lieu of regular eggs, and choose a plant-based cream and non-dairy milk. This allows everyone to enjoy this decadent dessert without compromising dietary choices.
Decadent Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together for 4 to 5 minutes until thick and creamy. Gradually mix in the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven and turn it out onto a sugared kitchen towel. Carefully roll the cake up with the towel inside and let it cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar, then add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth, then gently fold in chopped peanut butter cups.
- Once cooled, unroll the cake and spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up tightly and place seam side down.
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
- Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the assembled roll and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
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