Reese’s Dreamcake

Reese’s Dreamcake is a decadent dessert that perfectly combines rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter cheesecake. Topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting and garnished with Reese’s peanut butter cups, this cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Ideal for special occasions or indulgent treats, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Peanut Butter Cheesecake:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Decoration:

• 1 cup Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
• Chocolate ganache (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and an 8-inch springform pan.
2. For the chocolate cake: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin). Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans on wire racks for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
4. For the peanut butter cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add the sugar and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set. Allow to cool completely.
5. For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat on high speed for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
6. To assemble the cake: Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top. Carefully place the peanut butter cheesecake layer on top, then spread another thin layer of frosting over the cheesecake. Top with the second chocolate cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
7. Decorate with chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups on top. Drizzle with chocolate ganache if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-14 slices. The total time to prepare and bake the cake is around 2 hours, including 45 minutes of prep time and 70-75 minutes of baking time.

Variations

• Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute other types of nut butter, such as almond or cashew, in the cheesecake or frosting for a different flavor.
• Add layers of caramel sauce between the layers for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, let the cake come to room temperature or microwave individual slices for a few seconds until warmed.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the cakes and cheesecake ahead of time. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
2. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
   Make sure to grease and flour the pans thoroughly, or use parchment paper on the bottom of the pans.
3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly.
4. What can I use instead of eggs?
   You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer.
5. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
   Yes, both the cake and the cheesecake can be frozen.
6. Can I omit the boiling water?
   No, the boiling water helps create a moist cake.
7. How do I make chocolate ganache?
   Heat equal parts chocolate and heavy cream until melted, then stir until smooth.
8. What can I use to decorate besides Reese’s cups?
   You can use chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or sprinkles.
9. Is this recipe difficult for beginners?
   It requires some baking experience but is manageable for a motivated beginner.
10. Can I make mini versions of this cake?
    Yes, you can bake in smaller pans or cupcake tins, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Reese’s Dreamcake is an indulgent dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in an impressive layered cake. Whether for a special celebration or a delightful treat, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s a must-try for any dessert lover.

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