Easy Peanut Butter Tandy Cake Recipe From Scatch

Peanut Butter Tandy Cake, also known as a Kandy Kake, is a classic American dessert bar made with three key layers: a soft vanilla sponge cake base, a creamy peanut butter layer, and a rich chocolate topping. It’s especially popular in the Northeastern United States and is often associated with the Tastykake baking company.

The cake begins with a fluffy, yellow butter cake baked in a sheet pan. Once it cools slightly, a layer of smooth peanut butter is spread over the warm cake, allowing it to melt and soak slightly into the surface. Finally, a melted layer of semi-sweet or milk chocolate is poured on top and allowed to set, creating a firm, glossy finish. After chilling, it’s cut into square or rectangular bars.

Ingredients of Peanut Butter Tandy Cake

For the cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the peanut butter layer:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of salt

For the chocolate layer:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Method

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and beat until well combined. Gradually add in the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, until the batter is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out with a spatula.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth to create the peanut butter layer. Spread this mixture over the top of the cake batter in the pan, using a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 6: Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: While the cake is baking, make the chocolate layer. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt together the chocolate chips and butter until smooth and fully melted.

Step 8: When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. Then, pour the melted chocolate over the top of the peanut butter layer, using a spatula to spread it out evenly.

Serving Ideas

Serve homemade Peanut Butter Tandy Cake warm or at room temperature. Spread extra peanut butter on top for added flavor.

Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to enhance sweetness. Sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed cookies for crunch.

Pair the cake with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. For a dessert option, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

These simple ideas make the cake more enjoyable and flavorful.

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