Introduction

Earthquake Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert combining fudgy chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter cream cheese frosting, and a delightful mix of chocolate chips and peanut butter cups. This irresistible treat is perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

A close-up of one square piece of dessert on a white plate with a white marbled textured background. The dessert has three visible layers: the bottom dense dark brown chocolate cake layer with a slightly crumbly texture, the middle creamy light brown peanut butter filling chunky with smooth parts, and the top thick layer of dark brown chocolate with a glossy, cracked surface. On the top surface, there are five halved peanut butter cup candies placed neatly, showing a smooth and shiny chocolate exterior with ridged sides and creamy light brown peanut butter inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box dark chocolate fudge cake mix
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 cup miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups (halved)
Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: In a large bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions, typically adding oil, eggs, and water. Whisk until smooth, then pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is thick and well combined.
Step 4: Spread the peanut butter cream cheese frosting evenly over the cake batter in the baking dish.
Step 5: Sprinkle the chocolate chips and halved miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups over the frosting, gently pressing them into the surface.
Step 6: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake.
Step 7: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Step 8: Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter and peanut butter cups with almond butter and chocolate chunks or your favorite allergen-free alternatives.
Softening the cream cheese and butter to room temperature makes beating the frosting easier and smoother.
Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
If you prefer a more pronounced peanut butter flavor, increase the peanut butter by an additional 2 tablespoons in the frosting.

Storage

Store leftover Earthquake Cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To serve, bring slices to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This cake does not freeze well due to the frosting texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a square brownie sits on a white plate with a white marbled background. The brownie has three visible layers: the bottom layer is dark brown and moist with a rich chocolate texture; the middle layer is creamy and light brown, showing smooth peanut butter embedded within the brownie; the top layer is a shiny, firm dark chocolate coating. On top, there are several halved peanut butter cups with ridged sides, dark brown glossy chocolate tops, and a rich peanut butter center. The edges of the brownie show slightly melted chocolate and peanut butter oozing out tightly. 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?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake batter. Just ensure it fits the 9×13-inch baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use both chocolate chips and peanut butter cups?

While both add great texture and flavor, you can customize the toppings. Use just chocolate chips, peanut butter cups, or other mix-ins like chopped nuts or crushed cookies to suit your taste.