Peanut Butter Cake

I'm not one to ever back down from a challenge.  Those who know me well can attest to the fact that nothing motivates me more than the words "no" and "can't".  It's a problem. 😅  Walking away from a challenge just isn't a part of my DNA.  It's the reason that I couldn't give up on my dream to have a custom kitchen island - even though multiple experts told me that my design wasn't possible.  Some call it stubborn - I call it persistent.  🤣  It might seem like a positive trait to some but trust me when I tell you that my determination and competitive spirit doesn't always work in my favor. 😜 

A couple of weeks ago my family decided to tackle the 450 foot Sleeping Bear sand dune climb in Traverse City. #ifkyk I listened to them strategizing and preparing for the extreme hike for several days and I wanted nothing more than to join in on the sandy family bonding experience but in the end, I decided that the ankle pain that would inevitably follow the hike, wouldn't be worth the "climbers high."  It took some will power to turn down such a cool opportunity but I have no doubt that it was the best decision for me.  So... I went along as the hike photographer.  😂

I don't think that it's ever going to be easy for me to walk away from a challenge but I'm learning to accept my limitations.  Did I mention that this hike is so strenuous that there's a $3000.00 fine if you get to the bottom of the dune and you can't make it up and have to be rescued?  I'm proud of this crew for attacking the dune climb based on their ability level.  And, proud of myself for NOT participating. 🤪

The challenge of baking something new is also something that I have a really hard time walking away from.  I really enjoy the research and the testing phase of a new cheesecake or a cake flavor.  And the task of figuring out how to create a new cookie design is also favorite pastime.  So when I got a request for a peanut butter cake - without chocolate - I gladly accepted the challenge.  And here is the delicious result:

Peanut Butter Cake
4 1/2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
5 eggs
1 1/4 cups buttermilk

Cream together butter, peanut butter sugar and brown sugar.  

Beat in eggs, one at a time.  

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 

Add dry ingredients, 1/3 at a time, alternating with buttermilk.  

Divide between 3 nine inch, greased baking pans.  

Bake 35-40 minutes at 350.

Allow to cool 10 minutes in pan - remove from pan and let cool completely.  Frost with peanut butter buttercream.  Enjoy!

​Ciao!