Some cakes are nostalgic. Others are comforting. But this one? It’s pure decadence. If you’ve ever dreamed of eating a slice of Reese’s candy in cake form, this recipe is exactly what you need.

Moist chocolate cake layers, creamy peanut butter frosting, and a rich ganache drip come together to create the ultimate Reese’s experience. It’s a showstopper for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you want to indulge your sweet tooth.

Whether you’re a baking pro or just looking for something special to wow your guests, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake will not disappoint. Each layer is designed to complement the next, with balance and bold flavor in every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Category	Details
Yield	1 layered 9-inch cake
Serving Size	1 slice
Prep Time	45 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 20 minutes
Calories per Serving	~680
Primary Cooking Method	Baking
Cooling Time	1 hour
Occasion	Birthdays, Celebrations
Diet Type	Vegetarian

Calories are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

Recipe by Angela JonesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Intermediate

Servings

slice

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

680

kcal

This recipe is inspired by the iconic chocolate and peanut butter combination found in every Reese’s treat. It takes that familiar flavor and turns it into an irresistible dessert with multiple layers of indulgence.

From the moist chocolate cake to the luscious peanut butter frosting and the rich ganache drip, every element in this cake plays a role in making it unforgettable.

You’ll also get the joy of decorating with your favorite Reese’s candies to create a centerpiece-worthy dessert. Perfect for any celebration or a Saturday night indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot water (or hot coffee for a richer chocolate flavor)
For the Peanut Butter Frosting
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
¼ cup heavy cream (adjust as needed)
½ tsp salt
For the Chocolate Ganache
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
Optional Decorations
Mini Reese’s cups (halved or whole)
Crushed roasted peanuts
Chocolate curls, sprinkles, or extra ganache drizzle

Directions

Get Your Oven and Pans Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line the bottoms with parchment paper to make removal easier after baking.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures a smooth batter and helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa.
Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Ensure everything is at room temperature—this helps the batter blend more smoothly.
Blend Wet and Dry, Then Add Heat
Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking gently. Mix just until the flour disappears.

Then pour in the hot water (or hot coffee, if using) and whisk until the batter becomes smooth and glossy. It will be thinner than most cake batters—this is intentional for a moist crumb.
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Let the cakes rest in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. You can even wrap and refrigerate them at this point if making in advance.
Whip Up the Peanut Butter Frosting
Using a hand or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed.

If the frosting feels too thick, add the heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until it’s smooth and spreadable. Finally, mix in the salt to cut the sweetness slightly.
Assemble and Frost
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a cake board or serving plate. Spread a thick, even layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second cake layer over it, and apply a thin crumb coat around the entire cake.

Chill the cake for 15–20 minutes to help set the frosting. Then apply a final, thicker coat of frosting using an offset spatula. Aim for clean edges, or go rustic for a homemade charm.
Make and Apply Ganache Drip
To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream until it’s just starting to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 3–4 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool for 5–10 minutes.

Drizzle the ganache over the cake using a spoon or a piping bag. Start from the edge and work inward, letting it drip naturally down the sides. Pour a bit over the top and spread it gently for a shiny, delicious topping.
Decorate Like a Pro
Top the cake with halved or whole mini Reese’s cups, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, or even a ring of ganache piped in small swirls. You can get creative here—use whole Reese’s, drizzle extra peanut butter, or even add chocolate curls. This is your moment to shine!

Tips to Master the Perfect Peanut Butter Cake

Room temperature ingredients create a smoother batter and fluffier frosting.
Don’t overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. This keeps the cake soft.
For a stronger chocolate flavor, substitute hot water with hot brewed coffee.
Let your ganache cool slightly before drizzling so it won’t melt your frosting.
Want to add crunch? Sprinkle chopped Reese’s or roasted peanuts between the layers.

Must-Have Tools for This Recipe

You don’t need a fancy bakery setup, but the right tools make the process smoother:

Two 9-inch cake pans
Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Hand or stand mixer
Sifter
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk and rubber spatula
Offset spatula for frosting
Wire cooling rack
Parchment paper
Cake turntable (optional but helpful for frosting evenly)
Heatproof bowl and small saucepan for ganache

Make-Ahead Tips to Save Time

Want to break this recipe into manageable parts? Here’s how to prep ahead:

Bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Frosting and ganache can be made 1 day ahead. Store in airtight containers in the fridge and let come to room temperature before using.
Fully frosted cake can be kept in the fridge overnight. Add decorations just before serving for best presentation.

How to Store and Serve Reese’s Cake

This rich dessert holds up well for several days, especially if stored correctly:

Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let slices sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before eating to soften the frosting.
Freezer: You can freeze individual slices. Wrap them in plastic wrap, then foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~680 kcal
Total Fat	42g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	330mg
Total Carbohydrates	72g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	55g
Protein	8g

Values are estimates and will vary based on brands and portion sizes.

FAQs About Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

Q: Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: It’s best to use creamy peanut butter to get a smooth frosting. Chunky varieties can affect texture and spreadability.

Q: Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?
A: Absolutely! This recipe makes about 24 standard cupcakes. Bake for 18–20 minutes, then frost and drizzle as desired.

Q: How can I make this cake less sweet?
A: You can slightly reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting and opt for dark chocolate in the ganache.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Q: Can I skip the ganache?
A: Yes! The cake is still fantastic without it, but the ganache adds a luxurious touch.

Final Thoughts: A Cake That Speaks to Your Sweet Side

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake is more than just dessert—it’s an edible celebration. Each slice delivers the beloved harmony of chocolate and peanut butter, elevated into a rich, bakery-worthy treat. Whether you’re baking it for someone special or indulging your own cravings, this cake promises satisfaction in every bite.

Feel free to personalize it with your favorite candies or get creative with decorations. But no matter how you slice it, the result is always indulgent, satisfying, and unforgettable.