We love how peanut butter and chocolate create a silky swirl of indulgence. This luscious ganache elevates any dessert with its creamy texture and bold flavor.
We find it’s perfect as a frosting or drizzle and it only needs a handful of simple ingredients. We’ll show you how to whip it up quickly so you can enjoy every spoonful. Whether you’re dressing up a cake or adding a sweet surprise to brownies this peanut butter ganache is the definition of pure decadence.
Peanut Butter Ganache Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Creamy peanut butter | ½ cup |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup |
| Unsalted butter (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
- We measure each ingredient carefully.
- We place the peanut butter and chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- We warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan until small bubbles form at the edges.
- We remove the saucepan from heat and pour the hot cream over the peanut butter and chocolate chips.
- We let the mixture sit for about 1 minute.
- We stir slowly until the chocolate melts and the ganache looks smooth.
- We whisk in the unsalted butter if we want extra sheen.
- We allow the ganache to rest for 5 minutes.
We use this rich and creamy ganache to top our favorite cakes or brownies.
Tools And Equipment
We rely on a few basic items to create our peanut butter ganache recipe. These essentials help us achieve a smooth and rich consistency with minimal effort.
Essential Utensils
- Heatproof mixing bowl: Holds our chocolate and creamy peanut butter without scorching
- Rubber spatula: Scrapes every drop of ganache from the bowl
- Sturdy whisk: Blends melted chocolate and peanut butter thoroughly
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise amounts of heavy cream and other ingredients
Recommended Appliances
- Microwave: Quick method for softening chocolate chips or reheating the ganache
- Double boiler: Provides gentle heat control for slow and even melting
- Electric mixer: Speeds up integration if we want a fluffier texture
Ingredients
We rely on a handful of Main Components for our peanut butter ganache and these items blend seamlessly for a silky finish.
Main Components
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Peanut Butter | 1/2 cup (120g) | Smooth texture for consistent blending |
| Chocolate Chips | 1 cup (170g) | Use semi-sweet or dark |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup (120ml) | Warm just until steaming |
| Unsalted Butter (optional) | 1 tablespoon (14g) | Adds extra richness |
Directions
We bring our ingredients together to create a velvety ganache that blends sweet and salty notes. We strive for a rich texture that spreads effortlessly over our favorite treats.
Prep
- Gather our creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips, and heavy cream in one place.
- Measure each ingredient carefully so we achieve a consistent texture.
- If we are using the unsalted butter, place it nearby for easy access.
Cooking And Combining
- Warm the heavy cream until it is just steaming.
- Pour the hot cream over our chocolate chips and peanut butter in a heatproof bowl.
- Let the mixture rest for 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
- Whisk in a steady circular motion until the ganache looks smooth and glossy.
- Add the unsalted butter if we want added richness. Whisk again until fully incorporated.
- Allow the ganache to rest for 5 minutes before using.
| Step | Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Warm heavy cream | 30 seconds |
| Rest mixture after pouring | 1 minute |
| Whisk until glossy | 2 minutes |
| Final resting time | 5 minutes |
Make-Ahead Instructions
We store our peanut butter ganache in an airtight container once it cools. Refrigerating it extends freshness so we can prepare it a few days ahead. When we are ready to use it we set it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it softens. If it feels too thick we warm it in short bursts in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop. We stir frequently to prevent scorching.
Storage Guidelines:
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
We freeze our ganache for longer storage. When frozen we thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and whisk briefly to restore a smooth consistency. If needed we stir in a small amount of warm heavy cream to achieve the desired texture.
Serving Suggestions
We love how our Peanut Butter Ganache transforms everyday desserts into indulgent creations. We spoon a warm drizzle over brownies and top it with whipped cream for extra flair. We also pipe it onto cupcakes in a swirling pattern to give them a bakery style look. We prepare cookie sandwiches by spreading a thick layer of ganache between crisp cookies for a sweet treat. Some of us even swirl it into homemade ice cream to create a peanut butter ribbon that surprises with every scoop.
We recommend customizing our ganache to match your dessert. We thin it with a small amount of warm cream for an easily pourable drizzle. We keep it thicker when using as a frosting or filling. We also garnish our creations with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for added texture. We love hearing our friends say “I never knew peanut butter could be this decadent” because it shows just how special this ganache can be.
| Dessert Option | Ganache per Serving |
|---|---|
| Cupcakes | 2 tablespoons |
| Brownies (2×2 inches) | 2 tablespoons per piece |
| Ice Cream Topping | 1 tablespoon |
| Cookie Filling | 1 tablespoon per sandwich |
| Cake Filling | 1/4 cup between each layer |
Conclusion
We love how peanut butter ganache adds a burst of flavor to our dessert repertoire. Its creamy texture offers a crowd pleasing element that never fails to impress. Whether we use it as a drizzle or spread it thick our taste buds rejoice in every bite.
We appreciate the simplicity that comes with a handful of ingredients and basic equipment. There is something truly satisfying about seeing it come together so seamlessly. Let’s keep our kitchen stocked with these essentials so we can whip up a decadent treat whenever the craving strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is peanut butter chocolate ganache?
Peanut butter chocolate ganache is a smooth, creamy blend of warmed heavy cream, peanut butter, and chocolate chips. It’s thick like a frosting but can be thinned for drizzling. The peanut butter adds rich flavor and a velvety texture, making this ganache perfect for topping cakes, brownies, ice cream, or even swirling into cookies.
Which ingredients are essential?
You’ll need creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark), heavy cream warmed just until steaming, and optionally unsalted butter. High-quality chocolate and peanut butter help ensure a silky finish. A pinch of salt, if using unsalted peanut butter, can also enhance the flavor.
How do I make it smooth?
Heat the cream until steaming, then pour it over the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Let it sit for a minute before whisking. This resting step helps the chocolate melt evenly. If adding unsalted butter, stir it in at the end. Use slow, gentle whisking motions to create a glossy, lump-free texture.
Can I store the ganache ahead of time?
Yes. Place it in an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. If it seems too thick, warm it gently in the microwave or on low heat, whisking until smooth again.
Can I freeze leftover ganache?
Absolutely. You can freeze peanut butter chocolate ganache for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then let it sit on the counter for half an hour. If needed, warm it in short bursts in the microwave or on low heat, whisking until it reaches the desired consistency.
What desserts work best with peanut butter chocolate ganache?
It’s versatile and pairs deliciously with brownies, cupcakes, cookies, and cakes. Drizzle it over ice cream, or use it as a filling between cookie layers. Spread it on warm pastries or swirl it into homemade ice cream. It easily upgrades everyday treats into irresistible desserts.
Do I need special equipment?
Basic kitchen tools like a heatproof bowl, sturdy whisk, rubber spatula, and measuring cups are essential. A microwave or double boiler helps melt the chocolate. An electric mixer is optional if you want an extra-fluffy texture. Overall, you don’t need any fancy gadgets to prepare this ganache.
How can I adjust the thickness?
For a thinner drizzle, warm your ganache or stir in a bit more heavy cream. To maintain a thicker frosting consistency, let it cool slightly or add less cream. You can also chill it briefly. Experiment with small changes in temperature or cream amounts until you reach your desired texture.