Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe | Best Delicious

Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is a rich, chocolatey cake layered with creamy peanut butter frosting and topped with melted ganache and chunks of Reese’s cups.

This Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe delivers intense flavor and indulgent texture in every bite. I chose this recipe because the combination of chocolate and peanut butter is unbeatable and always a crowd favorite.

I’ve made this Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe several times, and each time it gets better. I made it bakery style once, but then started adding more Reese’s and thickening the frosting to suit my taste.

Now I’ll show the full step-by-step guide to making this Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe.

Why We Love This Recipe

We love this Reeses Peanut Butter Cake recipe because it delivers bold chocolate and peanut butter flavor in a rich, satisfying way.

The soft, moist cake layers pair perfectly with the creamy peanut butter frosting and smooth ganache topping. The addition of chopped Reese’s adds texture and enhances the taste with every slice.

This dessert stands out at gatherings, birthdays, or any celebration. It’s a favorite for peanut butter lovers and chocolate fans alike.

The final result looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and leaves everyone asking for seconds. This is one of those Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

How To Prepare Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe?

Let’s make this Reeses Peanut Butter Cake come out just right by following easy-to-understand steps together. I’ll list some helpful kitchen tools that make baking smoother, but you don’t need them all to succeed.

Use whatever you have on hand, and you’ll still end up with a delicious, moist, and flavorful Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 14 slices

Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Kitchen Utensils Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 2 round cake pans (8″)
  • Cooling rack
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)
  • Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)

Ingredients

For the Cake Base (using boxed mix):

Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 to 4 tbsp heavy cream or milk (adjust for consistency)
  • Pinch of salt (only if using unsalted peanut butter)

Chocolate Ganache:

  • ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream (room temperature)
  • ½ cup milk chocolate chips

Toppings:

  • 1 to 2 cups chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Mini Cups
  • Peanut butter drizzle (melted peanut butter or mix peanut butter with a little cream to thin it out)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8 round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the boxed cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and thick.

2. Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Tap them gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Beat for another 1–2 minutes until light and spreadable. Add a pinch of salt if needed.

4. Level the Cake Layers (Optional)

If the cake layers have domed on top, carefully slice off the rounded tops with a serrated knife so the layers stack evenly.

5. Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake board. Spread a generous layer of the peanut butter frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Use an offset spatula for smooth results.

6. Chill Before Ganache

Place the frosted cake in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes to help set the frosting before adding the ganache.

7. Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream just until hot (not boiling). Pour over the milk chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly so it thickens but is still pourable.

8. Drizzle Ganache Over Cake

Remove the cake from the fridge. Spoon or pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect. Work quickly so it sets evenly.

9. Add Final Toppings

While the ganache is still soft, sprinkle chopped Reese’s Cups generously over the top of the cake. Finish with a peanut butter drizzle by microwaving a few spoonfuls of peanut butter (with a splash of cream if needed) until pourable. Drizzle across the top for a bakery-style finish.

Notes:

Using milk instead of water in the cake mix adds richness and enhances the chocolate flavor. For a stronger peanut butter taste, add crushed Reese’s directly into the frosting between layers. You can freeze the cake layers ahead of time, wrapped well, for up to a month.

Nutrition Facts Of Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories600
Fat35g
Saturated Fat15g
Carbohydrates60g
Sugar45g
Protein7g

Why My Recipe Works

My recipe works because each element is carefully balanced for flavor and texture. Using milk instead of water in the cake mix makes the base richer and more moist.

The creamy peanut butter frosting adds smoothness and depth, complementing the chocolate without overpowering it. The ganache adds a silky finish, and the chopped Reese’s give it a bold, candy-filled bite.

Every layer is built with purpose from the soft cake to the final drizzle making the whole cake feel homemade but bakery-quality. It’s a reliable, tested recipe that delivers consistent, delicious results every single time.

Recipe Tips and Techniques

Use milk instead of water when preparing the boxed cake mix for a richer, more flavorful and moist cake base.

Let your cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting or sliding off.

Chill the frosted cake before adding ganache so the ganache sets nicely and drips cleanly over the sides.

Microwave peanut butter with a splash of cream for a smooth, pourable drizzle that adds a beautiful finishing touch.

Chop Reese’s cups just before topping to keep them fresh and prevent melting into the ganache.

Adjust frosting thickness by adding heavy cream one tablespoon at a time to get the perfect spreadable consistency.

Level your cake layers with a serrated knife if needed, for a professional, even stacked look.

My Favorite Ways to Serve It

I like to serve this Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe fresh, letting it sit out for a bit so the flavors fully develop. A small scoop of peanut butter ice cream alongside adds a cool contrast.

Occasionally, I dust the top with cocoa powder for a subtle extra touch. For get-togethers, I slice the cake into neat squares and add a drizzle of extra peanut butter over each piece.

This Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe also pairs wonderfully with a glass of cold chocolate milk or a simple black coffee, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Best Variations for Reeses Peanut Butter Cake

Salted Caramel Drizzle – Add a salted caramel sauce drizzle over the ganache for a sweet and salty twist that complements the peanut butter perfectly.

Crunchy Peanut Butter – Swap creamy peanut butter in the frosting for crunchy peanut butter to add texture and a nutty bite.

➤ Peanut Butter Mousse Filling – Layer a light peanut butter mousse between the cake layers instead of frosting for a fluffier, airy texture.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl – Swirl melted peanut butter into the chocolate cake batter before baking for marbled flavor.

Peanut Butter Cookies Crust – Add a crushed peanut butter cookie crust at the bottom of the cake pan for extra crunch.

Additions And Substitutions

Additions

● Chocolate Chips: Add ½ to 1 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips into the cake batter for extra chocolatey bites.

● Chopped Nuts: Fold in ½ cup chopped peanuts or pecans for crunch and texture.

● Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the frosting or between layers for a sweet-salty combo.

● Espresso Powder: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the cake batter to deepen the chocolate flavor.

● Banana or Pumpkin: For a twist, substitute ½ cup mashed ripe banana or pumpkin puree for some of the oil or butter.

Substitutions

● Peanut Butter Alternatives: Use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if allergic or for a different nut flavor.

● Butter: Substitute with margarine or coconut oil (solid) in frosting for a dairy-free option.

● Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.

● Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol (adjust quantity per product guidelines).

● Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for gluten intolerance.

● Cream Cheese: Replace cream cheese in filling with mascarpone or whipped coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.

Is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake Best Comfortsble cake?

Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe definitely ranks as one of the most comforting cakes for many people. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a familiar, warm flavor that feels like a cozy treat.

Its moist texture and smooth frosting make it satisfying without being too heavy. This Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe often brings back happy memories and feels like a special reward after a long day.

Whether shared with family or enjoyed alone, it has a way of making moments feel a little sweeter and more comforting.

Storage Recommendations

Store the Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe covered in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe best kept in the refrigerator because of the buttercream frosting and ganache, which helps maintain their texture and prevents spoilage.

The Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe will stay fresh for up to 4–5 days when refrigerated. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes to soften the frosting and enhance the flavors.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

FAQs about Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it’s thinner and less sweet. You may need to add a bit more powdered sugar to the frosting to get the right texture and sweetness.

How do I prevent the ganache from dripping too much?

Let the ganache cool and thicken slightly before pouring it over the cake. This helps control the drip and creates a cleaner finish.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day or two ahead and store them wrapped in the fridge or freezer. Assemble and frost the cake on the day you plan to serve.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the ganache?

You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, but the ganache might be a bit thinner and less glossy.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Conclusion

After making this easy and delicious Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe, I truly enjoyed every bite. The flavors came together perfectly, and it was a big hit for everyone who tasted it.

I hope you feel inspired and confident to try making Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe yourself. Once you do, you’ll see how simple and rewarding it is.

This recipe brings happiness to the table and satisfies every sweet craving. Now that you’ve seen the steps, I believe you understand it well and will be making Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe soon.

More Cake Recipes You’ll Love

Apple Butter Cake Recipe [Best Comfortable]

Old-Fashioned Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe

French Vanilla Cake Mix [Moist And Fluffy]

Brown Butter Cake Recipe [Make At Home]

Half Chocolate Half Vanilla Cake Recipe [Two Flavors]

Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Sophia

This Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe features rich chocolate cake layers filled with creamy peanut butter frosting and chopped Reese’s candies. Topped with chocolate ganache and more Reese’s, it’s a decadent treat for peanut butter lovers. Perfect for celebrations, it combines sweet, salty, and chocolaty flavors in every bite for an indulgent dessert experience.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 14 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Base (using boxed mix):
  • 1 box Devil’s Food or Chocolate Cake Mix
  • 1 cup milk substitute for water
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 to 4 tbsp heavy cream or milk adjust for consistency
  • Pinch of salt only if using unsalted peanut butter
Chocolate Ganache:
  • cup heavy whipping cream room temperature
  • ½ cup milk chocolate chips
Toppings:
  • 1 to 2 cups chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Mini Cups
  • Peanut butter drizzle melted peanut butter or mix peanut butter with a little cream to thin it out

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 2 round cake pans (8″)
  • Cooling rack
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)
  • Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8 round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the boxed cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and thick.
  3. Bake the Cakes
  4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Tap them gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
  6. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Beat for another 1–2 minutes until light and spreadable. Add a pinch of salt if needed.
  7. Level the Cake Layers (Optional)
  8. If the cake layers have domed on top, carefully slice off the rounded tops with a serrated knife so the layers stack evenly.
  9. Frost the Cake
  10. Place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake board. Spread a generous layer of the peanut butter frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Use an offset spatula for smooth results.
  11. Chill Before Ganache
  12. Place the frosted cake in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes to help set the frosting before adding the ganache.
  13. Make the Chocolate Ganache
  14. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream just until hot (not boiling). Pour over the milk chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly so it thickens but is still pourable.
  15. Drizzle Ganache Over Cake
  16. Remove the cake from the fridge. Spoon or pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect. Work quickly so it sets evenly.
  17. Add Final Toppings
  18. While the ganache is still soft, sprinkle chopped Reese’s Cups generously over the top of the cake. Finish with a peanut butter drizzle by microwaving a few spoonfuls of peanut butter (with a splash of cream if needed) until pourable. Drizzle across the top for a bakery-style finish.

Notes

Using milk instead of water in the cake mix adds richness and enhances the chocolate flavor. For a stronger peanut butter taste, add crushed Reese’s directly into the frosting between layers. You can freeze the cake layers ahead of time, wrapped well, for up to a month.

Nutrition Facts Of Reeses Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories 600
Fat 35g
Saturated Fat 15g
Carbohydrates 60g
Sugar 45g
Protein 7g
Admin Pic

Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating