Dessert

Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe

Name: Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; Ingredients required for cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water); 1 jar (16 oz) creamy peanut butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups; 1 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped; 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup heavy cream

ByOlivia Monroe January 26, 2026January 26, 2026

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Introduction

Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a decadent treat that combines rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter and plenty of Reese’s candy. This indulgent dessert is perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for a fun and easy-to-make cake that bursts with flavor.

A rich dessert square with three distinct layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom and top layers are dark, moist chocolate cake with a soft texture. Between them is a thick, creamy caramel-colored filling that looks smooth and slightly gooey. The top of the cake is covered with a shiny, thick dark chocolate sauce that drips down the sides. On top of the sauce are broken pieces of peanut butter candy, adding a crunchy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
Ingredients required for cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water)
1 jar (16 oz) creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups
1 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box.
Step 2: Prepare the chocolate cake mix as directed on the box and pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cake batter.
Step 5: Sprinkle the crushed and chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups over the top.
Step 6: Bake the cake according to the cake mix instructions.
Step 7: Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before spreading the whipped topping evenly over the surface.
Step 8: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream together until smooth. Drizzle this chocolate ganache over the whipped topping.
Step 9: Allow the cake to set for a bit before serving so the flavors can meld.

Tips & Variations

For an extra peanut butter punch, swirl some peanut butter directly into the chocolate cake batter before baking.
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy if you prefer texture.
Try topping with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for added crunch and decoration.
If you want a dairy-free option, substitute the whipped topping and cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the whipped topping fresh. To serve, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This cake can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a rich, layered chocolate dessert on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three main layers: the bottom and top layers are dark, moist chocolate cake with a rough texture, while the middle layer is a creamy, light brown peanut butter filling, smooth and thick. The top of the dessert is covered with thick, glossy dark chocolate sauce dripping down the sides. Crushed pieces of chocolate and peanut butter candy are sprinkled on top, adding texture and color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of the boxed mix?

Absolutely! Homemade chocolate cake works great and adds a personal touch. Just be sure the batter is thick enough to hold the peanut butter dollops without them sinking completely.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just keep it refrigerated and covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.