Dessert

Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe

ByLily Cross January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

The Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter and plenty of Reese’s candy for a truly indulgent treat. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, this cake layers flavors and textures that make every bite unforgettable.

A thick, square slice of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a white marbled background. The bottom layer is dark, moist chocolate cake, followed by a middle layer of rich, creamy peanut butter filling that is golden brown and smooth. Another thick layer of the same dark chocolate cake sits on top of the peanut butter. The top is covered with a shiny, thick chocolate ganache that drips down the sides, adding a glossy texture. Small pieces of chopped peanut butter cups are scattered on top and slightly embedded in the ganache, adding texture and color contrast. 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 according to the package directions and pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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 until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool slightly, then spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface.
Step 8: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream together until smooth, then drizzle the chocolate mixture over the whipped topping.
Step 9: Let the cake set before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts or Reese’s Pieces on top before serving.
Use natural peanut butter for a slightly different flavor and a less sweet option.
If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, substitute the semi-sweet chips with dark chocolate chips.
To make individual servings, bake the cake in muffin tins and adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the whipped topping fresh. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Reheating is not recommended due to the whipped topping and candy pieces.

How to Serve

The image shows a rich, layered chocolate dessert square placed on a white plate, set against a white marbled background. The bottom layer is a dense, dark chocolate cake with a slightly crumbly texture. Above it is a thick, smooth peanut butter layer in a warm tan color, followed by another dark chocolate cake layer. The top is covered in a glossy, thick chocolate ganache that drips down the sides, with small pieces of crushed peanut butter cups sprinkled on top, adding texture and 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 a box mix?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe—just pour the peanut butter mixture and candies on top before baking as instructed.

Can I freeze the Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake?

While you can freeze the cake before adding the whipped topping and chocolate drizzle, freezing the finished cake with these toppings may affect texture. For best results, add toppings after thawing.