Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
If you’re a lover of chocolate and peanut butter, then the Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake is going to be your new favorite dessert. This decadent treat combines a rich dark chocolate cake with a luscious, creamy peanut butter frosting stuffed with halved Reese’s cups and chocolate chips. The result is a mouthwatering combination that will have you and your loved ones coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try making this cake. Not only is it simple to whip up using boxed cake mix, but the flavor profile is absolutely divine. The cake is incredibly moist, thanks to the frosting that bakes into it, creating a delightful “earthquake” effect. The addition of halved Reese’s cups not only enhances the peanut butter flavor but also adds a fun texture to the cake. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a dinner party or a cozy night at home.
How to Make Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
Creating this heavenly dessert is straightforward. Follow the step-by-step guide below to make your own Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake.
Ingredients
- 1 box dark chocolate fudge cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups (halved)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions (typically requires adding oil, eggs, and water). Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing until it becomes thick and creamy.
- Spread the frosting mixture over the cake batter in the dish.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and halved Reese’s cups on top, pressing them gently into the frosting.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Serve Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
For a delightful presentation, cut the cake into generous squares and place each piece on dessert plates. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast in temperature and flavor. You can also drizzle some chocolate syrup on top of the ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
How to Store Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze leftover cake (without the ice cream) in individual servings wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and enjoy it later.
Tips to Make Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for an easier mixing process.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting.
- For an extra crunch, try adding chopped peanuts along with the chocolate chips and Reese’s.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to your taste! You can try using milk chocolate cake mix instead of dark chocolate or incorporate flavors like caramel or butterscotch. For a nut-free version, simply omit the peanut butter and replace it with a nut-free alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade cake mix instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can use your homemade chocolate cake recipe if you prefer. Just make sure it yields about the same quantity.
2. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! The cake can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure it is properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
3. Can I substitute the peanut butter with something else?
You may substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunbutter for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind it will alter the taste of the cake.
Now, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your baking skills! Enjoy making and indulging in this delicious Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake!
Reese's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions (typically requires adding oil, eggs, and water). Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing until it becomes thick and creamy.
- Spread the frosting mixture over the cake batter in the dish.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and halved Reese's cups on top, pressing them gently into the frosting.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
