Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe
Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a decadent and indulgent dessert combining rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter, Reese’s peanut butter cups, and a luscious whipped topping. Finished with a smooth chocolate ganache drizzle, this crowd-pleasing cake is perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for a show-stopping treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients required for cake mix (typically eggs, oil, and water as per box instructions)
Peanut Butter Topping
- 1 jar (16 oz) creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- 1 cup crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups
- 1 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
Whipped Topping
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the chocolate cake mix box to ensure the cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Follow the package instructions to prepare the chocolate cake batter using the required ingredients like eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish evenly.
- Mix Peanut Butter Filling: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Layer Peanut Butter on Batter: Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture randomly over the prepared chocolate cake batter, allowing some ripples and pockets of peanut butter throughout.
- Add Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: Sprinkle the crushed and chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups generously over the top of the cake batter and peanut butter drops for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Bake the cake according to the instructions on the cake mix box, typically until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Add Whipped Topping: Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly so the toppings won’t melt. Then, spread the whipped topping evenly over the entire cake surface for a light and fluffy finish.
- Prepare Ganache Drizzle: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth and glossy.
- Drizzle Ganache: Carefully drizzle the warm chocolate ganache over the whipped topping, creating an attractive finishing touch.
- Set and Serve: Let the cake set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly to allow the ganache to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure to evenly disperse the peanut butter mixture over the batter for the characteristic ‘earthquake’ effect.
- Use a greased or parchment-lined baking dish to prevent sticking.
- For best results, allow the cake to cool enough before adding the whipped topping to avoid melting it.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator; allow to come to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk.
Keywords: Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake, chocolate peanut butter cake, peanut butter desserts, Reese’s cake, easy chocolate cake recipe, layered peanut butter cake
