Imagine a dessert so decadent, so irresistibly rich, that it will have everyone begging for seconds - and thirds! This Chocolate Peanut Butter Reese's Cake is not just a dessert; it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the ultimate dream team of flavors: deep, dark chocolate and creamy, smooth peanut butter. Perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or when you simply need a show-stopping treat that will make you the instant hero of any gathering.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup chocolate frosting
- 1 cup Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, peanut butter, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-incorporated, ensuring no dry lumps remain.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a consistent layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for approximately 45-60 minutes. Cooling is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly across the top using an offset spatula or butter knife.
- Sprinkle the chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups generously over the frosted cake, covering the entire surface.
- Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Slice into 12 equal portions and serve. For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother, more evenly mixed batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the cake batter just until ingredients are combined to prevent a tough cake texture.
- Check Cake Doneness: Use the toothpick test, but remove the cake when a few moist crumbs still cling to the toothpick for maximum moisture.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Chopping Reese's Cups: Freeze the Reese's Cups for 10 minutes before chopping for cleaner, more precise cuts.
- Frosting Technique: Use an offset spatula for smooth, even frosting application.
- Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, so it's perfect for advance preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
