Dessert

Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake Recipe

ByZoe Lane January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake is a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter and plenty of Reese’s peanut butter cups. This layered treat is easy to make and perfect for any celebration or cozy night in.

A rich dessert square is shown with three main layers: the bottom and top layers are dark, moist chocolate cake with a slightly crumbly texture, while the middle layer is thick and creamy peanut butter filling with a smooth, dense look. The entire cake is covered by a shiny, thick chocolate ganache dripping down the sides, creating a glossy, smooth finish. On top, there are small chunks of peanut butter cups and crushed peanut brittle pieces scattered, adding a crunchy texture and golden brown color contrast. The dessert is placed on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface. 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 your oven to the temperature specified on the chocolate 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 bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and well blended.
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 following the instructions on the cake mix box.
Step 7: Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before spreading the whipped topping evenly over it.
Step 8: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream together until smooth. Drizzle this chocolate ganache over the cake.
Step 9: Allow the cake to set before serving to let the flavors meld perfectly.

Tips & Variations

For a crunchy texture, add chopped peanuts or pretzels on top before baking.
Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more intense flavor.
Try substituting dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual slices briefly in the microwave, but it’s delicious served chilled as well.

How to Serve

The image shows a rich, square layered dessert on a white plate, sitting on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark, moist chocolate cake, followed by a thick, creamy caramel peanut butter filling in the middle. Above this is another layer of the dark chocolate cake. The top is covered with shiny chocolate ganache that drips down the sides, adding a glossy texture. Pieces of crushed peanut butter cups are scattered on top, adding texture and detail. 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 mix?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe if you prefer. Just make sure the batter isn’t too thin to support the peanut butter topping.

Is there a way to make this cake nut-free?

This cake’s signature flavor comes from peanut butter and Reese’s peanut butter cups, so it wouldn’t be nut-free. However, you can try substituting sunflower seed butter and nut-free chocolate candies as a possible alternative.