Deliciously Indulgent Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Introduction

If you're a fan of rich, chocolatey desserts, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake will quickly become your new favorite. This delightful confection combines the irresistible flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, creating a decadent treat that's perfect for any occasion.

The cake features a moist chocolate base, topped with a luscious cream cheese mixture, and loaded with pieces of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces. Its unique ‘earthquake’ appearance comes from the way the cream cheese filling sinks into the cake as it bakes, creating a delightful surprise in every slice.

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation of this mouthwatering dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces candy
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, and half of the chopped pecans into the batter.
4. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and melted butter together until creamy.
6. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and creamy peanut butter, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
7. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, then use a knife to swirl it slightly into the batter for a marbled effect.
8. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and Reese’s Pieces on top of the cake.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares.

FAQs

Why did my cake come out too dense?

If the cake is dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake mix with a vanilla or peanut butter cake mix for a different flavor.

What can I do if my cream cheese mixture is too thick?

If your cream cheese mixture is too thick, try adding a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, consider using dark chocolate chips and cutting back on the powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture.

How can I make the cake more chocolatey?

You can add an extra 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an even richer chocolate flavor.

What if I don’t have pecans?

You can replace pecans with walnuts or omit them entirely if you prefer.

How do I prevent the cream cheese from sinking too much?

Ensure your cake batter is thick enough before adding the cream cheese mixture, and avoid over-swirling.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead, but it's best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Conclusion

The Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a stunning dessert that delivers on flavor and presentation. With its rich chocolate base and creamy peanut butter topping, it's sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the mix-ins or customize the toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy every delicious bite of this indulgent treat!

Recipe Card

Deliciously Indulgent Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake

Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake with clear steps, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces candy
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, and half of the chopped pecans into the batter.
4. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and melted butter together until creamy.
6. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and creamy peanut butter, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
7. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, then use a knife to swirl it slightly into the batter for a marbled effect.
8. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and Reese’s Pieces on top of the cake.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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