Screwball Cake – Moist & Nutty Chocolate Delight

Screwball Cake is a rich, moist chocolate cake layered with nutty flavors and finished with a luscious chocolate glaze. This dessert combines the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess, making it ideal for birthdays, gatherings, or any celebration. Easy to make and irresistible to chocolate lovers, this cake is a showstopper both in flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist, rich, and chocolatey texture
• Crunchy peanut flavor with every bite
• Easy to make with pantry ingredients
• Perfect for celebrations and special occasions
• Can be made ahead and stored for convenience

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• ½ cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee
• 1 cup (150g) chopped peanuts
• 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips

Chocolate Glaze

• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 4 oz (115g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
6. Stir in brewed coffee, chocolate chips, and chopped peanuts.
7. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
10. For the glaze, heat heavy cream until simmering, pour over chopped chocolate and butter, and stir until smooth. Pour glaze over cooled cake.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute peanuts with pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth.
• Make mini cupcakes using this batter, bake 20–25 minutes.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Store cake wrapped in foil to retain moisture.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Keep glaze covered separately if storing frozen slices.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve warm or at room temperature with extra chocolate drizzle.
• Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or milk for a decadent treat.
• Garnish with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings.
• Slice into small portions for dessert platters at gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake without coffee?

Yes, you can substitute coffee with milk or water. Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor but is not essential.

Is Screwball Cake suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Freeze individual slices without glaze for best results; add glaze after thawing.

Can I make it nut-free?

Yes, simply omit the peanuts or replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

What is the best way to serve this cake?

Serve at room temperature with glaze poured just before serving. Pair with ice cream or fresh fruit for extra appeal.

Ready to Make It?

Screwball Cake is moist, nutty, and chocolatey—a dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or indulgent treat times. Simple to bake and impressive to serve, this cake will delight every chocolate lover.

You Might Also Like

• Chocolate Chip Muffins – Soft and chocolate-studded breakfast treat.
• Salted Caramel Brownies – Gooey, rich dessert bars for chocolate lovers.
• Cheesecake Bars – Creamy, easy-to-slice dessert for gatherings.
• Caramel Rice Krispie Treats – Sweet, crunchy, and perfect for parties.

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