Directions to follow
Follow these easy steps to bake your Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans and shredded coconut across the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package directions and pour it over the nut and coconut layer in the pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the mixture, ensuring a creamy consistency.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter cream cheese filling over the cake batter without mixing it in.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups on top.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before serving. For best results, chill for 2-3 hours to achieve clean slices.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving this cake, the possibilities are endless! A warm slice is delightful on its own, but if you really want to elevate the experience, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For extra flair, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top or sprinkle some additional chopped Reese’s for garnish. This cake pairs wonderfully with milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is simple. Once the cake has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Pro chef tips
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, here are a few insider tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth filling.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter; just combine the ingredients until moistened for a fluffier texture.
- If you accidentally overbake, a simple layer of whipped cream on top can hide any dryness and add a delicious touch.
Creative twists
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing plenty of room for creativity. You can swap the chocolate cake mix for a vanilla or spice cake mix if you’d like a different flavor base. Consider adding crushed pretzels or toffee bits for an added crunch. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the filling.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation time is about 20 minutes, with baking taking an additional 40-50 minutes.
Can I use a homemade chocolate cake recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chocolate cake mix with your favorite homemade recipe. Just ensure it’s a similar volume to the boxed mix.
Is it safe to leave cake out overnight?
Yes, this cake can be safely stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just be sure it’s covered to keep it fresh.
If you’re craving a dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, this cake is sure to impress! Enjoy baking and savor every bite of this decadent treat.
