Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Name: Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake: Indulge Today!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup milk

Posted on November 15, 2025

DESSERT

Difficulty

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Cooking time

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Introduction to Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious treat can feel impossible. That’s where this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake comes in! It’s a delightful combination of rich chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter, topped with everyone’s favorite Reese’s candies. Perfect for a quick solution on a busy day or a show-stopping dessert to impress your loved ones, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just about 55 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s a heavenly blend of chocolate and peanut butter that will have your family begging for seconds! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those leftover Reese’s candies. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Ingredients for Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Let’s dive into the deliciousness that makes up this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! Here’s what you’ll need:

Chocolate cake mix: The base of our cake, providing that rich, chocolatey goodness. You can use a regular or dark chocolate mix for a deeper flavor.
Water: This helps to hydrate the cake mix, ensuring a moist texture. You can also use brewed coffee for an extra flavor boost!
Vegetable oil: This adds moisture and richness to the cake. Feel free to substitute with melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
Large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add structure. They also contribute to the cake’s fluffiness.
Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show! It adds a luscious, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Powdered sugar: This sweetens the peanut butter mixture and gives it a smooth consistency. You can adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Reese’s peanut butter cups: Chopped up for that delightful surprise in every bite! You can use mini or regular-sized cups, depending on what you have on hand.
Chocolate chips: These add extra chocolatey goodness and a bit of texture. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Milk: This helps to thin out the batter slightly, making it easier to pour. You can use any milk you prefer, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now, let’s get ready to bake this indulgent treat!

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will wow your family and friends.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that perfect fluffy texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This batter is the foundation of our cake, so make sure there are no lumps. It should be thick and rich, just like a good chocolate cake should be!

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is where the magic happens! The peanut butter adds a delightful richness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate cake. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Now, it’s time to layer! Pour half of the chocolate cake batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the cake batter. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the layers will swirl together as it bakes. Pour the remaining chocolate batter on top, covering the peanut butter layer completely.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Here comes the fun part—adding toppings! Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups and chocolate chips over the top of the cake batter. This step is essential because it adds bursts of flavor and texture. Every bite will be a delightful surprise!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the cake to set, making it easier to cut. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget to add a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra indulgence!

Tips for Success

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
Don’t overmix the cake batter; mix just until combined.
For a gooey center, slightly underbake the cake.
Let the cake cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for the batter and a smaller one for the peanut butter mixture. You can use any size you have on hand.
Whisk or electric mixer: For blending the ingredients smoothly. A good old-fashioned whisk works just fine!
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal, but any similar-sized pan will do.
Spatula: Perfect for spreading the batter and peanut butter mixture evenly.
Toothpick: Essential for checking the cake’s doneness.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with sun butter or a similar nut-free spread for a safe option for schools or allergies.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based chocolate cake mix to create a vegan-friendly version.
Extra Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, add a layer of chocolate ganache on top after baking for an even richer experience.
Fruit Additions: Toss in some chopped bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist that complements the chocolate and peanut butter.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
Serve with fresh berries to add a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed Reese’s for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for the perfect pairing!

FAQs about Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Can I make this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, you can warm it up slightly in the oven or microwave for that fresh-baked taste.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute peanut butter with sun butter or any other nut-free spread. This way, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of this cake without the worry of allergies!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

For an extra indulgent experience, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for that extra touch of decadence!

Final Thoughts

Making this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter blend together in a way that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. Each slice is a delightful surprise, bursting with flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to bring joy to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. You won’t regret it, and neither will your family!