Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Earthquake Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 box dark chocolate fudge cake mix (plus ingredients needed: oil, eggs, water)
For the Filling:
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 cup softened butter
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
For the Topping:
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 cup miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups, unwrapped and halved
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the cake.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with the required amounts of water, eggs, and oil as indicated on the box. Whisk until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until smooth.
Layer the Mixtures:
Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Add the Toppings:
Sprinkle the chocolate chips and halved Reese’s peanut butter cups evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture.
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool:
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack.
Serve:
Cut the cake into slices and, if desired, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
Uniform Slicing: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave before serving if you prefer them warm.