Calling all baking enthusiasts in the UK! We've got the perfect recipe for you to try out this weekend - a delightful Twix Cake. This heavenly treat combines the classic peanut butter and chocolate flavours of Twix bars, all enclosed in a soft, moist sponge cake. So, let's grab our ingredients and dive right into this decadent baking adventure!
Before we get started, it's worth noting that this recipe makes a two-layer 8-inch round cake, which serves around 16 people. So, it's perfect for when you've got friends and family over, or if you just fancy some leftovers to indulge in throughout the week. Without further ado, let's begin!
Gathering Your Ingredients
The great thing about this Twix Cake recipe is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Here's what you'll need:
For the Cake
- 2 and 1/4 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (90g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons (8g) baking soda
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or boiling water
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 and 1/2 cups (350g) smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 and 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting
- 1 and 1/2 cups (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 and 1/2 cups (240g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (28g) unsalted butter, softened
Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to begin. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan-forced) or 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake tins, and set them aside.
Preparing the Twix Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside. In another bowl, combine the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Then, pour in the hot coffee or boiling water, and stir gently until the batter is smooth. The mixture will be thin, but don't worry – it's supposed to be that way!
Baking the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins, and smooth the tops with a spatula. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
When the cakes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the tins for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely before assembly.
Preparing the Peanut Butter Filling
While the cakes are cooling, it's time to prepare the peanut butter filling. Beat the peanut butter and softened butter together in a medium bowl until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Then, add the heavy cream (and salt, if using unsalted peanut butter), and beat until the filling is light and fluffy.
Assembling the Twix Cake
Now that your cakes and filling are ready, it's time to assemble the deliciousness! Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top of the filling. Now, it's time to make the chocolate ganache frosting.
Making the Chocolate Ganache Frosting
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Place the chocolate chips in a medium bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to soften the chocolate. Then, whisk the chocolate and cream together until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Stir in the softened butter until fully incorporated. Let the ganache cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes before frosting the cake. This will give the ganache time to thicken slightly, making it easier to spread.
Final Touches
Once the ganache has cooled, spread it evenly over the top and sides of the cake. If you're feeling fancy, you can pipe some extra ganache around the edges or drizzle it over the top for an extra touch of indulgence. Finally, slice the cake and serve it to your eagerly awaiting family and friends!
And there you have it – your very own Twix-inspired masterpiece to enjoy and share! This cake is sure to become a firm favourite, and with its moist chocolate sponge and creamy peanut butter filling, it's the perfect treat for any occasion. Happy baking!