Get ready to indulge in a dessert that’s as irresistible as it is unforgettable: Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! This rich, gooey cake combines a moist chocolate base with a creamy peanut butter swirl, studded with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for the ultimate treat. Known for its “earthquake” cracks and melty pockets, this cake is perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or any time you’re craving a chocolate-peanut butter explosion. At TastyRecipeHub.com, we’re passionate about indulgent American desserts, and this recipe is a star in our eBook, 60 Mouthwatering American Dishes Made Simple. Don’t lose this recipe—it’s a keeper! Let’s dive into this decadent delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a 2025 must-bake for dessert lovers, offering:
- Irresistible Flavor Combo: Chocolate and peanut butter with Reese’s candy for maximum indulgence.
- Show-Stopping Look: The cracked, swirled surface is a visual stunner, perfect for X posts with #TastyRecipeHub.
- Easy to Make: Uses a cake mix for simplicity, with a gourmet result.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or potlucks.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays delicious for days, if it lasts that long!
This cake is a perfect example of the decadent desserts in our eBook, available on Gumroad.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 12-16 and is baked in a 9×13-inch pan. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chocolate Cake Base:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz, plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (about 8-10 mini cups or 4 regular cups)
For the Peanut Butter Swirl:
- ½ cup butter, melted (unsalted)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (1 package, full-fat for best texture)
- ½ cup peanut butter (creamy, not natural)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
For Topping:
- ½ cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (for sprinkling)
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for extra chocolatey goodness)
- ¼ cup peanut butter chips (optional, for added crunch)
Optional Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle (melted chocolate)
- Extra chopped Reese’s for decadence
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (for powdered sugar)
- Knife or chopper (for Reese’s)
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a gooey, chocolate-peanut butter masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions (typically mixing with eggs, oil, and water). Fold in 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Swirl
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup peanut butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add ½ cup melted butter and ½ tsp vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add 4 cups sifted powdered sugar, beating on low speed until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the chocolate cake batter in the pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the batter, creating a marbled effect. Don’t overmix—keep distinct swirls for that “earthquake” look.
- Sprinkle ½ cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, ½ cup chocolate chips, and ¼ cup peanut butter chips (if using) evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cake will have cracks and gooey pockets, which is the signature “earthquake” effect.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a cooling rack for at least 30 minutes. The cake will continue to set as it cools.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. For extra decadence, top with whipped cream, a chocolate drizzle, or additional chopped Reese’s.
- For clean slices, chill the cake for 1 hour before cutting, then let it come to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Dessert Table: Serve alongside other sweets like brownies or cookies for a potluck spread.
- With Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla or peanut butter ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Holiday Vibes: Add festive sprinkles for Christmas or Halloween gatherings.
- Portion Control: Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized party treats.
Love This Recipe? Get More in Our eBook!
If this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake has you craving more indulgent American desserts, check out 60 Mouthwatering American Dishes Made Simple. This eBook is packed with 60 recipes, like Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Burrito, and Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups, all designed for busy cooks who love bold flavors. For just $4.99, download it instantly on Gumroad and elevate your dessert game with more crowd-pleasers!
Customization Options
- Cake Mix: Use devil’s food or fudge cake mix for richer chocolate flavor.
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter and use nut-free chocolate candies.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure candies are gluten-free.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts to the topping.
- Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cut powdered sugar to 3 cups.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container or covered pan for up to 5 days. Serve at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving.
- Make-Ahead: Bake up to 1 day in advance and store in the fridge. Add garnishes just before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)
- Calories: 450-550 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 50g
- Sodium: 400mg
Why This Recipe Shines in 2025
In 2025, desserts that combine nostalgia with indulgence are trending, and this Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake hits all the right notes with its chocolate-peanut butter combo and gooey texture. It’s perfect for sharing on X and wowing guests, much like the decadent recipes in 60 Mouthwatering American Dishes Made Simple. Want more? Grab the eBook on Gumroad!
Tips for Success
- Sift Powdered Sugar: Prevents lumps in the peanut butter swirl.
- Don’t Overbake: The jiggly center ensures a gooey, fudgy texture.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth, creamy swirl.
- Chop Reese’s Evenly: Uniform pieces distribute flavor throughout.
Join the Tasty Recipe Hub Community
Share your Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake on X with #TastyRecipeHub for a chance to be featured! For more indulgent American recipes, download 60 Mouthwatering American Dishes Made Simple on Gumroad and follow us on Pinterest or our Facebook Broadcast Channel for daily inspiration.
Enjoy your chocolate-peanut butter masterpiece!
