# **Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake: A Decadent Dessert Delight**
## **Introduction**
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate and peanut butter experience with **Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake**! This rich, gooey, and irresistible dessert combines a moist chocolate cake base with a creamy peanut butter and cream cheese swirl, topped with melty chocolate chips. As it bakes, the cake “collapses” into a deliciously messy masterpiece—hence the name “Earthquake Cake.” Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or satisfying your sweet tooth, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
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## **Ingredients**
### **Cake Layer:**
– 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus required ingredients: eggs, oil, water)
### **Peanut Butter-Cream Cheese Filling:**
– ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup creamy peanut butter
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 cups powdered sugar
### **Topping:**
– ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Optional: Crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for extra decadence
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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat & Prepare**
1. Preheat oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Grease a **9×13-inch baking dish** or line it with parchment paper.
### **Step 2: Make the Cake Base**
1. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
### **Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling**
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the **cream cheese and peanut butter** until smooth.
2. Add the **melted butter and vanilla extract**, mixing well.
3. Gradually add the **powdered sugar**, beating until fully incorporated and creamy.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Earthquake Cake**
1. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the chocolate cake batter.
2. Use a knife or spatula to gently swirl the peanut butter mixture into the cake batter—don’t overmix!
3. Sprinkle **chocolate chips** (and optional Reese’s pieces) on top.
### **Step 5: Bake to Perfection**
1. Bake for **40-45 minutes**, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
2. Let the cake cool for **15-20 minutes** before serving.
### **Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!**
– Serve warm with **ice cream** or enjoy it at room temperature.
– Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to **5 days**.
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## **The History of Earthquake Cake**
Earthquake Cake originated as a fun, rustic dessert that “cracks” and sinks as it bakes, creating a marbled, gooey texture. The addition of **peanut butter and cream cheese** takes this classic to the next level, making it a favorite among Reese’s lovers.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Cake**
✅ **Rich & Decadent** – Chocolate + peanut butter = a match made in heaven!
✅ **Easy to Make** – Uses a boxed cake mix for convenience.
✅ **Impressive Presentation** – The cracked, swirled top looks amazing.
✅ **Crowd-Pleasing** – Perfect for parties, holidays, or just because!
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## **Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)**
– **Calories:** ~450
– **Fat:** 22g
– **Carbs:** 58g
– **Protein:** 6g
– **Sugar:** 45g
*(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)*
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## **Conclusion: A Must-Try Dessert!**
Whether you’re a **chocolate lover, peanut butter fanatic, or dessert enthusiast**, this **Reese’s Peanut Butter Earthquake Cake** is a must-make! Its irresistible combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds.
**Tag your baking adventures with #EarthquakeCakeLovers and share the deliciousness!** 🍫🥜
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### **For More Decadent Desserts, Try These:**
– **Peanut Butter Cup Brownies**
– **Chocolate Lava Cake**
– **Peanut Butter Pie**
Happy Baking! 😋🍰