Get ready for the ultimate dessert that will make chocolate and peanut butter lovers weak in the knees! This Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a mind-blowing combination of rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter filling, and a swirled texture that looks like it’s been hit by a delicious dessert earthquake. Each slice promises an indulgent experience that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (+ ingredients required on box)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for topping
Metric Measurements
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (+ box instructions)
- 113g unsalted butter, melted
- 226g cream cheese, softened
- 120g creamy peanut butter
- 2.5ml vanilla extract
- 480g powdered sugar
- 85g semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preparation and Cooking Details
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12-16 slices
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base
- Preheat oven to temperature specified on cake mix box (typically 350°F/175°C)
- Prepare chocolate cake mix according to package instructions
- Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan thoroughly
- Create Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth
- Add peanut butter and mix until well combined
- Incorporate vanilla extract
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until creamy and lump-free
- Assemble the Cake
- Pour prepared chocolate cake batter into the greased pan
- Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter cheesecake mixture randomly over cake batter
- Use a knife to create swirling patterns
- Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips across the top
- Baking Process
- Bake for 40-45 minutes
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick
- Toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs
- Avoid overbaking to maintain moisture
- Cooling and Serving
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan
- Allow at least 1 hour of cooling time
- Cut into squares and serve
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Sugar: 42g
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps
- Create dramatic swirl patterns by using figure-eight motions
- Chill cake for easier cutting
- Line pan with parchment paper for easy removal
Possible Variations and Substitutions
- Peanut Butter Alternatives:
- Almond butter
- Cashew butter
- Sunflower seed butter (for nut-free version)
- Chocolate Chip Variations:
- Milk chocolate chips
- Dark chocolate chips
- Peanut butter chips
- Topping Ideas:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate ganache
- Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Caramel drizzle
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this cake gluten-free? Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Q2: How long will this cake stay fresh? Refrigerated in an airtight container, it will last 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator overnight.
Q4: What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan? Use two 8-inch square pans, adjusting baking time slightly.
Q5: Can I reduce the sugar? Reducing sugar may affect texture, but you can try using a sugar substitute.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Room Temperature: Best consumed within 2 days
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap
- Make-Ahead: Prepare a day in advance for enhanced flavors
- Serving: Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature
Prepare for a dessert that will absolutely rock your world – the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake awaits!