Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
Looking for the ultimate dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter into a heavenly treat? Say hello to Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake! This decadent dessert features layers of moist chocolate cake swirled with a creamy peanut butter filling, topped with chocolate chips and miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings and impressing your guests with its irresistible taste.
Why Try This Recipe?
- Irresistible Flavor Combo: Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven, and this cake brings out the best of both worlds in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Using a boxed cake mix as the base makes this recipe a breeze to prepare, while the addition of homemade peanut butter filling takes it to the next level of deliciousness.
Summary of Ingredients
To make Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake, you’ll need:
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix, plus the ingredients listed on the box (oil, eggs, water)
- 12 oz of softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup of softened butter
- 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups of miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups, unwrapped and cut in halves
Serving Suggestions
Once baked to perfection, serve Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures. It’s the perfect indulgence for any special occasion or simply as a treat to enjoy with loved ones.
Storage Information
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a warm and gooey treat, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Techniques and Tips
- Ensure that your cream cheese, butter, and peanut butter are all softened to room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- When swirling the peanut butter mixture into the chocolate cake batter, aim for a marbled effect by gently spreading the spoonfuls around without fully mixing them together.
- Keep an eye on the cake while baking and perform the toothpick test to check for doneness. The center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Variation
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding extra toppings such as chopped nuts, caramel sauce, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for even more decadence. You can also experiment with different flavors of cake mix or substitute the peanut butter cups with your favorite candy bars for a unique twist.
FAQs About the Recipe
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? A: While creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smooth texture, you can certainly use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of extra crunch in your cake filling.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time and reheat it before serving? A: Yes, you can prepare the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy them warm and gooey.
Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
Equipment
- - Mixing bowls
- - 9 x 13 baking dish
- - Nonstick cooking spray
Ingredients
- 1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix plus oil, eggs, water as per package instructions
- 12 oz Softened cream cheese
- 1/2 Cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup Creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 Cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 Cup chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 Cup miniature Reese's peanut butter cups unwrapped and cut in halves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased baking dish and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until all 4 cups are incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Spoon dollops of the peanut butter mixture over the chocolate cake batter in the baking dish, then lightly spread it around to create a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle the halved Reese's peanut butter cups and chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cake batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake!
Notes
- Check the center of the cake with a toothpick after 45 minutes of baking to ensure it's cooked through.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
