When dinner feels a little uninspired and you need a quick treat to bring a smile, my Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll always comes through. One evening a few months back, I whipped it up because I was out of most dessert ingredients. What I had were a few simple staples and that trusty recipe. Everyone’s honest reaction? Pure delight. This Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll is more than just a dessert; it’s that dependable friend in your kitchen that lifts the mood with every bite.
In real home cooking, dishes like the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll remind me why I keep going back to simple, reliable recipes. They don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps, just a bit of care and familiar flavors. This chocolate peanut butter roll recipe hits the comfort zone hard, combining the richness of chocolate and the creamy peanut butter filling into an easy-to-make roll everyone loves.
If you’re looking for a homemade peanut butter chocolate dessert that feels like a little celebration without all the fuss, this one’s it. It works for weeknight treats, weekend gatherings, or just anytime you want something special but fuss-free. I’m thrilled to share this with fellow home cooks who appreciate trustworthy recipes that deliver every time. Once you make this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll, I promise it will find a regular spot in your kitchen rotation.
What You’ll Need:
To get started on your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll, here’s the simple, reliable ingredient list:

- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a nuttier twist)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (you’ll find this in your baking aisle)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (feel free to swap for brown sugar for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (I like using natural for that subtle peanut taste)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (the secret for that rich cream cheese peanut butter chocolate roll filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped (these add the perfect surprise chunk)
- Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts for topping
No worries if you’re missing peanut butter cups—I often use chopped chocolate chips in my Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll. They add a similar texture and chocolate punch at a lower cost.
Shopping tip: Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll keeps costs reasonable because you’re not hunting for specialty items. Grab what you need during your regular grocery trip.
Prep shortcut: Soften cream cheese and peanut butter quickly by microwaving them in short bursts (10-15 seconds each).
If you have leftovers, wrap the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes even better chilled, so don’t be shy about making it ahead.
Let’s Make It Together:
Now for the fun part—making your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll from scratch. It takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, including baking and cooling.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, then lightly grease it. This step helps your roll come out clean and neat.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 3-4 minutes. This gives your roll that light, tender crumb—don’t rush this step.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix. Your batter should be smooth and glossy.
- Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Tap the pan lightly to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Your kitchen will smell incredible by now—that chocolate aroma is pure happiness.
- While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar. This prevents sticking when you roll your cake.
- Once done, immediately invert the cake onto the towel, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake with the towel inside to form the shape. Let it cool this way.
- For the filling, beat softened peanut butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach a creamy, spreadable consistency.
- Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the peanut butter cream cheese mixture evenly. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups all over the filling.
- Roll it back up without the towel, gently tucking in the sides as you go. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to set.
- When ready to serve, slice and enjoy your beautiful Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll!
Don’t worry if your roll isn’t perfectly round—it’s supposed to look homemade and inviting.
While your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll chills, you can use the time to tidy up your kitchen or prepare a simple cup of coffee to enjoy with dessert.
How to Serve & Enjoy:

This Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll shines best fresh from the fridge, where the cream cheese peanut butter chocolate roll filling is cool and creamy. I usually slice it into generous pieces and serve alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of black coffee to balance the sweetness.
For side ideas, chopped fruits like strawberries or bananas pair surprisingly well, adding a fresh, juicy touch to this rich, satisfying homemade peanut butter chocolate dessert. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it extra indulgent for special occasions.
This roll is a natural fit for casual family get-togethers, weeknight desserts, or even packed in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise. I’ve served it during holiday brunches too—it’s that versatile.
Presentation tip: dust with a little extra cocoa powder or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before slicing. The peanut butter cups on the inside add a fun surprise, so be sure to highlight those in your presentation.
If you have leftovers, turn slices into mini peanut butter roll-up bites for snacks that kids and adults alike enjoy. Just cut into smaller pieces and serve with toothpicks.
For a seasonal twist, I’ve tried swapping mini peanut butter cups with peppermint candies around winter, which was a hit with friends.
Your Questions Answered:
I often get asked if you can make the Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll ahead of time. The answer is yes, and I recommend making it the day before to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Looking for a good substitute for cream cheese in this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll? Greek yogurt can work in a pinch for a lighter filling, though the texture and richness will differ.
Adjusting this recipe for more or fewer people? It scales well either way. Just keep the same ratio of flour, eggs, and filling ingredients. I’ve doubled it easily for larger crowds.
Can you make a no-bake peanut butter cup roll variation? Yes! Using crushed cookies and a chilled cream cheese peanut butter mixture can create a similar no-bake peanut butter cup roll that’s quick and just as tasty.
Some friends ask if they can swap regular peanut butter for natural or crunchy. I say go for whatever you love. Crunchy adds great texture in your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll.
How do you store the roll to keep it fresh? Wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate. It lasts well for 2-3 days.
Are there gluten-free versions? Yes, gluten-free flour blends work well here. Just ensure your cocoa powder and baking powder are also gluten-free.
Every time I’ve made this chocolate peanut butter roll recipe, small tweaks add a fun spin, like adding chopped nuts or trying different cream cheese peanut butter chocolate roll fillings.
Final Thoughts:
Why do I keep this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll in my recipe collection? Because it’s one of those rare recipes that’s easy, delicious, and requests keep rolling in.
My Best Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll Tips:
- Take your time folding the batter for a tender cake layer
- Using cream cheese in the filling is a game changer for richness
- Refrigerating the roll before slicing helps keep its shape intact
My tested variations include swapping the filling for more whipped cream and natural peanut butter, making a no-bake peanut butter cup roll version, and sprinkling chopped nuts on top for crunch. The cream cheese peanut butter chocolate roll filling remains the crowd favorite.
I hope you make this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll your own and enjoy the simple comfort it brings. It’s a sweet, straightforward recipe that won’t let you down in your home kitchen.
If you love this, your family might also enjoy my Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Pie or these easy Peanut Butter Cookie Bites for more peanut butter goodness.
For those curious about other roll ideas, check out this Peanut butter roll up cookie recipe ideas needed. If you want something a little different but equally delicious, consider these chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls from The Baking Fairy.
And for a no-bake twist, here’s an Easiest Peanut Butter Treat I make a cheesecake peanut butter chocolate no-bake that’s got lots of fans.
I’m excited for you to try this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll and make it a dependable go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll
This Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Roll combines rich chocolate sponge cake with a creamy peanut butter filling, creating a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 peanut butter cups, chopped
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until thick and pale.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread to the edges.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and sprinkle it lightly with powdered sugar.
- As soon as the cake is out of the oven, invert it onto the towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting at the short end, roll the cake up with the towel inside. Let it cool completely in this rolled shape.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.
- Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the surface.
- Sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups over the filling, then carefully roll the cake back up, without the towel this time.
- Chill the roll for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving, if desired.
Notes
For an extra rich flavor, use natural peanut butter and add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the roll before chilling.

