Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake – Guilt-Free Indulgence

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is everything you love about dessert—rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and satisfying sweetness—all in a lighter, portion-friendly form. Designed for balance, this treat is perfect when you’re watching your intake but still want to enjoy a slice of something decadent. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Decadent Taste, Lightened Up – Full flavor with better-for-you ingredients
Chocolate + Peanut Butter Perfection – A classic combo that never fails
No Fancy Skills Needed – Simple to prepare with easy layering
Party-Ready or Meal-Prep Friendly – Great for celebrations or keeping a sweet treat on hand

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) sugar-free chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup water

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 package (8 oz) light cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered peanut butter (like PB2), mixed with 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar or zero-calorie sweetener equivalent
• 1 tub (8 oz) light whipped topping, thawed

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp skim milk
• Optional: crushed peanuts or mini chocolate chips for garnish

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake Layers
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray two 8-inch round cake pans with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, mix cake mix, applesauce, egg whites, and water until smooth.
Divide batter evenly between the pans and bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the reconstituted powdered peanut butter and powdered sugar until well combined. Fold in the whipped topping until fluffy and uniform.

3. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half the peanut butter filling evenly over the top. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining filling on top.

4. Add the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with milk in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Drizzle or spread over the top layer.

5. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to set the layers. Slice and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 210
Carbs: 26g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g
(Smart portioning makes this a sweet and sensible choice.)

Tips for Success

• Let Layers Cool Completely: A warm cake will melt the peanut butter filling.
• Go Nutty (Optional): Sprinkle crushed peanuts or a few mini chips on top for texture.
• Make Ahead: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—flavors get even better!
• Single-Layer Shortcut: Turn it into a sheet cake if you prefer simplicity.

Why This Recipe Works

This cake offers the best of both worlds: satisfying richness from peanut butter and chocolate, and a lighter approach that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s perfect for celebrations, meal prepping sweet treats, or any time a chocolate craving strikes.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake proves that indulgent doesn’t have to mean over-the-top. With smart swaps and thoughtful ingredients, you can have your cake and eat it too—literally. Every bite is rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, making this dessert a go-to for anyone looking to treat themselves while staying on track.