Description
Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake Extravaganza
Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 container (16 oz) chocolate frosting
1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions with water, oil, and eggs. Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely.
Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over one cake layer. Place the second layer on top.
Frost the entire cake with chocolate frosting.
Sprinkle chopped mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips on top
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease two 9-inch round cake pans and dust them with flour, tapping out the excess to ensure easy release.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until smooth and well combined.
3. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cakes cool in their pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, carefully run a knife around the edges and invert them onto the rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.
5. While the cakes cool, make the peanut butter filling. In a medium bowl, stir together the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until a thick, smooth paste forms.
6. Place the first cake layer on your serving plate. Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the top, leaving a small border around the edge.
7. Gently place the second cake layer on top, pressing down lightly. Apply a thin “crumb coat” of chocolate frosting over the entire cake and chill for 15 minutes to seal in crumbs.
8. Frost the entire cake with the remaining chocolate frosting, using an offset spatula for a smooth finish. Immediately sprinkle the top with chopped mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips, pressing them in slightly so they adhere.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra-decadent presentation, drizzle the plated slice with a little extra melted peanut butter or chocolate sauce. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side perfectly balances the rich flavors. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of strong coffee.
How-to Summary
Bake two chocolate cake layers and let them cool fully. Create a simple peanut butter filling by mixing peanut butter with powdered sugar. Assemble the cake by spreading the filling between the layers. Frost the entire cake with chocolate frosting and decorate generously with chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different size pan? Yes, but adjust the bake time. A 9×13-inch pan will require 28-33 minutes. For cupcakes, bake for 18-22 minutes.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely. You can bake the layers 1-2 days in advance; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap once cool and store at room temperature. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
What if my peanut butter filling is too thick? Add a teaspoon of milk or vegetable oil and stir until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Can I use homemade frosting? Definitely. Any rich chocolate buttercream or ganache will work beautifully in place of the store-bought frosting.
How should I store leftovers? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let chilled slices come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid frosting a warm cake, as it will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Do not skip the step of letting the cakes cool completely. When making the peanut butter filling, ensure you use powdered sugar, not granulated sugar, to achieve the correct smooth texture. Finally, don’t overmix the cake batter once the dry and wet ingredients are combined, as this can lead to a dense, tough crumb.
Conclusion
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake Extravaganza is a show-stopping dessert that masterfully combines beloved flavors into one incredible treat. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a professional-looking and irresistibly delicious cake that is sure to impress any crowd. It’s the perfect celebration of the iconic chocolate and peanut butter pairing.