Introduction
Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is an ultra-decadent dessert loaded with chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter swirls, chunks of Reese’s candies, and a rich cream cheese layer that “erupts” as it bakes—creating that signature cracked, gooey top. It’s indulgent, dramatic, and perfect for serious chocolate-peanut butter lovers.
Why You’ll Love It
- Rich, gooey texture
- Easy semi-homemade recipe
- Perfect for parties and potlucks
- Loaded with chocolate + peanut butter flavor
Ingredients (Serves 12)
Cake Base
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients listed on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter chips
Optional Add-Ins
- Crushed Oreos
- Chopped peanuts
- Caramel drizzle
- Extra peanut butter swirl
Tips for Success
✔ Don’t overmix cream cheese layer—keep it thick
✔ Scatter toppings evenly so every bite has flavor
✔ Use a glass or light pan to prevent overbrowning
✔ Let cake cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat to 350°F / 175°C and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Cake Batter
Mix cake batter according to package directions and pour into prepared pan.
3. Make Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and thick.
4. Layer
Spoon dollops of cream cheese mixture over cake batter (don’t spread). Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups, chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips on top.
5. Bake
Bake 40–45 minutes until edges are set but center is still slightly gooey.
6. Cool & Serve
Let cool at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Flavor & Texture
- Fudgy chocolate base
- Creamy cheesecake-like swirls
- Gooey center
- Crunchy candy bites
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice)
- Calories: 520
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Protein: 7 g
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a show-stopping dessert that looks rustic but tastes bakery-level indulgent. With its molten pockets of cream cheese and candy-filled richness, it’s guaranteed to impress anyone who loves bold, sweet treats.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm with vanilla ice cream
- Drizzled with chocolate syrup
- With a glass of cold milk
- As a celebration dessert
Healthful Indulgence Tip
Cut smaller squares—this cake is very rich, so even a small piece satisfies cravings.