Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Layers

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the buttermilk to the mixture, stirring well. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients gradually, mixing until just combined. Add the hot water to the batter; it will be thin, but that’s normal.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to steam, but avoid boiling it. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of the cooled chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Use the remaining frosting to coat the sides and top of the cake evenly.

Step 7: Add the Ganache Drizzle

Once the frosting is complete, pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides for a beautiful and decadent finish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

For an added touch, garnish the top of the cake with chopped peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts. Slice the cake and serve to your guests or enjoy it yourself!