Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake
Description: This rich and moist Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake features two layers of homemade chocolate cake filled with creamy peanut butter frosting, covered in silky chocolate ganache, and topped with chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. It's the perfect dessert for birthdays, holidays, and chocolate lovers!DessertAmericanLayer CakePrep Time: 30 minutesCook Time: 30–35 minutesCooling & Decorating: 90 minutesTotal Time: About 2½ hoursServings: 12–14 slicesOven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)IngredientsFor the Chocolate Cake- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour- 2 cups granulated sugar- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder- 1½ teaspoons baking powder- 1½ teaspoons baking soda- 1 teaspoon salt- 2 large eggs- 1 cup whole milk- ½ cup vegetable oil- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract- 1 cup hot coffee or hot waterFor the Peanut Butter Frosting- 1 cup creamy peanut butter- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened- 3 cups powdered sugar- 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract- ¼ teaspoon saltFor the Chocolate Ganache- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips- ½ cup heavy creamFor the Topping- 8–10 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped- 6–8 mini Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (optional)- ¼ cup chocolate shavings (optional)Instructions1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined.4. Slowly stir in the hot coffee or hot water until incorporated. The batter will be thin.5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.7. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.2. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting1. Beat softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and fluffy.2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined.3. Add vanilla extract, salt, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream.4. Beat for 2–3 minutes until light and creamy.5. Add the remaining cream if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache1. Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.2. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming, but not boiling.3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes.4. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.5. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until thickened but still pourable.4. Assemble the Cake1. Place one cooled chocolate cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.2. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting evenly over the cake.3. Carefully place the second cake layer on top.4. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.5. Spread the remaining peanut butter frosting over the top and sides of the cake.6. Slowly pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the edges.7. Decorate with chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, mini peanut butter cups, and chocolate shavings.8. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to help the frosting and ganache set before slicing.Notes- Room-temperature ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs, milk, and softened butter for smoother mixing.- Peanut butter: Regular creamy peanut butter works best for a stable, fluffy frosting.- Coffee substitute: Replace hot coffee with hot water if preferred.- Extra chocolate flavor: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache.- Make ahead: Bake the cake layers one day in advance and store them tightly wrapped.- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–5 days.- Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.- Serving tip: Allow refrigerated cake slices to soften slightly at room temperature before serving.Allergens: Contains peanuts, wheat, eggs, and dairy.Recipe tip: For the prettiest presentation, arrange halved Reese's Peanut Butter Cups around the top edge and add chopped candy in the center.