Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe

If you’re ready for the most indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert to ever hit your table, meet the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! This luscious treat brings together a rich chocolate cake base, a creamy peanut butter and cream cheese layer, gooey swirls, chocolate chips, and melty Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. The magic of this cake is that it looks wild and a little messy—like it’s been shaken by an earthquake—but delivers chocolate peanut butter bliss in every decadent bite. If you love classic earthquake cakes and can never resist a Reese’s, this dessert will become your new go-to for parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave something outrageously good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a breeze, but each one is absolutely crucial for bringing together those layers of flavor and irresistible textures. Every bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can create the most memorable desserts!

• Chocolate cake mix: Provides a soft, fudgy foundation and lets you skip extra steps without sacrificing taste.
• Eggs, oil, water (for cake mix): The trio that comes together to ensure the cake bakes up moist and tender every time.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps make that peanut butter layer extra smooth and luxurious.
• Cream cheese (softened): Brings a slight tang and creamy decadence to balance out all the sweetness.
• Peanut butter: The star of the show! Creamy peanut butter adds salty-sweet depth and a velvety texture.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances and rounds out the flavors in the peanut butter layer.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter mixture and creates that irresistible fluffy, smooth topping.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Little pockets of melty chocolate that dot the whole cake for extra richness.
• Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (halved): Brings bursts of classic Reese’s flavor in every bite and those instantly recognizable chocolate-peanut butter pockets.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and giving a 9×13-inch glass baking dish a good coating of non-stick cooking spray. This helps ensure that glorious gooey filling slides out without sticking and keeps the cake looking its best.

Step 2: Mix the Chocolate Cake Batter

Prepare your chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box, using the eggs, oil, and water as directed. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish—but don’t bake it just yet! This sets the stage for the gooey, layered effect that makes a Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake so unforgettable.

Step 3: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the melted butter and softened cream cheese. Don’t worry if things look a little lumpy at first—just keep mixing until it turns smooth and creamy. Then add in the peanut butter and vanilla extract, giving it a good mix until everything’s beautifully combined.

Step 4: Sweeten and Fluff

Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. You’ll end up with a thick, luscious, fluffy peanut butter mixture that spreads like a dream. This is the sweet magic that takes the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake over the top!

Step 5: Layer and Top

Scoop dollops of the peanut butter mixture generously over the unbaked chocolate cake batter. Don’t try to be perfect—it should look swirly and rustic. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and halved mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups evenly over the top, ensuring there’s a bite of Reese’s in every single serving.

Step 6: Bake to Wavy Perfection

Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the center is set but still a bit jiggly—think pudding-like rather than firm. The top may look a little cracked and marbled, which is exactly what you want in a Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! Let it cool slightly before serving so the layers cut beautifully.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Garnishes

This cake is eye-catching all on its own, but if you really want to wow your guests, top each slice with extra halved Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, a drizzle of warm fudge sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Even a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side takes it over the top.

Side Dishes

Because this cake is so rich and decadent, pair it with something simple. A tall glass of cold milk or a mug of freshly brewed coffee makes the perfect complement, letting the chocolate and peanut butter flavors shine. For an adult twist, try it with an espresso or peanut butter liqueur for dessert hour!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or potlucks, cut the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake into small squares and stack on a platter, alternating with mini peanut butter cups as decoration. Or, serve warm with a scoop of ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for the ultimate sundae-inspired treat. Individual ramekins work beautifully for an elegant, fuss-free dessert option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake (lucky you!), simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days; the rich flavors only improve as they mingle!

Freezing

This cake freezes extremely well. Cut cooled cake into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw a piece overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours.

Reheating

To enjoy that gooey, just-baked taste, microwave individual slices for about 15–20 seconds. If you’re heating a larger portion, pop it into a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes. The peanut butter and chocolate will melt slightly, giving you those heavenly, molten swirls all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of box mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe, you can definitely use it in place of the box mix. Just make sure the batter yields enough for a 9×13-inch pan so the layers bake up thick and decadent.

Do I need to use mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or can I use regular size?

You can use regular Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups—just chop them into small pieces so they distribute well over the cake. The mini cups are just a bit more convenient for even coverage, but either size works and delivers that classic flavor.

What kind of peanut butter is best for this recipe?

Creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) is ideal for the best texture and smoothest swirl. Natural peanut butters can be too oily or gritty, which may affect the consistency of your peanut butter layer.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The best way to check is to give the pan a gentle shake—the center should be just set but still have a slight jiggle, a bit like cheesecake. If you insert a toothpick, it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter. Since every oven is a little different, start checking after 45 minutes.

Can I make a gluten-free version of Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake?

Yes! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free chocolate cake mix (and double-check other ingredient labels) to create an indulgent gluten-free version. Your cake will be just as gooey and irresistible as the original.

Final Thoughts

If you want a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, you simply have to try Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake. It’s pure chocolate and peanut butter bliss in every wild, gooey bite—perfect for celebrations, sharing, or satisfying those serious sweet cravings. Go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable classic!

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