A Sweet and Salty Masterpiece

If you love desserts that combine rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, gooey caramel, crunchy pretzels, and the unique flair of Take 5 candy bars, then this Take 5 Cake recipe is for you. Designed to tantalize your taste buds, this cake brings together layers of decadence and a medley of flavors and textures that will impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply craving a next-level treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Take 5 Cake is perfect for chocolate lovers, peanut butter fanatics, and anyone who adores a sweet-salty combo. It’s an excellent choice for:

• Birthdays and celebrations: Its show-stopping layers and toppings make it the centerpiece of any dessert table.
• Family gatherings: A surefire crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Baking enthusiasts: The combination of fillings and ganache offers a fun yet approachable challenge.

This recipe’s versatility means you can adapt it to suit different preferences or dietary needs, making it a great addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

For the Cake

• 1 box Devil’s Food Cake Mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules

Peanut Butter Filling

• ½ cup butter, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup cream or milk

Caramel Filling

• 1 (13 oz) package caramels
• ¼ cup butter
• ⅓ cup milk

Milk Chocolate Ganache

• 12 oz milk chocolate chips
• 6 oz heavy cream

Toppings

• 7 snack-sized Take 5 candy bars, chopped
• Mini pretzels, broken

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• 2 round cake pans
• Saucepan
• Heatproof glass bowl
• Whisk
• Cooling racks
• Offset spatula (optional, for smoother spreading)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven and prepare your cake pans according to the Devil’s Food Cake Mix instructions.
2. Mix the cake batter as directed on the package, adding 1 teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the dry ingredients. This enhances the chocolate flavor.
3. Bake the cake as a two-layer cake according to the package instructions. Allow the layers to cool completely on wire racks.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. Add the cream or milk a few tablespoons at a time until the filling is stiff but smooth.
5. Divide the filling in half. Spread one portion evenly across the top of each cake layer, just to the edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped Take 5 candy bars on top of the peanut butter filling.

3. Prepare the Caramel Filling

1. Unwrap the caramels and place them in a saucepan with butter and milk.
2. Heat over low, stirring continuously until the mixture is completely smooth.
3. Drizzle the caramel over the peanut butter filling and candy bar pieces on each layer.

4. Make the Milk Chocolate Ganache

1. Bring the heavy cream to a boil and immediately remove it from heat.
2. Pour the cream over the milk chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
3. Stir slowly until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Let the ganache thicken slightly before drizzling it over the caramel filling.

5. Assemble the Cake

1. Stack the layers carefully.
2. Add broken pretzels to the top of the cake as a finishing touch.
3. Chill the assembled cake for at least an hour to set the layers.

Tips and Variations

• Make it your own: Swap out Take 5 candy bars for your favorite chocolate bars if you prefer.
• Salted caramel: Use sea salt caramels for an extra salty twist.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free pretzels.
• Storage tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Pairings

• Beverages: A cold glass of milk, hot coffee, or a rich stout beer pairs beautifully with this cake.
• Ice cream: Serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for added indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them, wrapped, at room temperature. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought caramels?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade caramel recipe, feel free to use it for the caramel filling.

How can I prevent the layers from sliding?

Chill each layer briefly after adding the fillings before stacking them. This helps the layers firm up and hold their shape.

Try This Recipe Today

This Take 5 Cake is an irresistible dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its layers of rich flavors and textures, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your household. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious creations. Happy baking!