There’s something magical about the moment you pull a freshly baked cake from the oven, especially when it’s a Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake. As the warm, nutty aroma wafts through your kitchen, memories of family gatherings and cozy nights come rushing back. This cake is not just a dessert; it embodies love, comfort, and the simple joys of life.
Why make this recipe
This Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a delightful celebration of flavors. The combination of rich chocolate cake with swirls of creamy peanut butter frosting creates a heavenly bite that is simply irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just because, this cake brings smiles to faces young and old alike. Plus, who can resist a dessert that includes both chocolate chips and Reese’s peanut butter cups? It’s a slice of bliss that you deserve to treat yourself to!
How to make Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
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)
Directions:
- 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!
How to serve Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
This cake is best enjoyed warm, when the chocolate and peanut butter are slightly oozy and decadent. Serve it on a cozy family dinner night or for a casual get-together, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want to elevate the experience, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for added indulgence!
How to store Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
If you have any leftovers (which may be a big if, considering how delicious this cake is!), you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for about a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving again—this cake is comfort food, after all!
Tips to make Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate cake mix instead of classic.
- If you want more peanut butter goodness, feel free to add a few more halved Reese’s on top!
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened—not melted—for the best consistency when mixing.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Swap the chocolate cake mix for a funfetti mix for a cheerful twist! Or use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a unique flavor profile. There are endless possibilities to make this cake your own!
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and simply reheat it slightly in the oven before serving. It tastes just as delicious the next day!
2. Can I freeze Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes beautifully! Just wrap it in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
3. Will other nut butters work in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer, but keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly. Each nut butter brings its own unique twist to the cake.
Embrace the magic of baking this Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake, and indulge in every luscious layer. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a slice all to yourself, remember that life is too short to skip dessert. So go ahead—let this cake bring a little joy and sweetness to your day!
Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
Method
- 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.