Reese’s Ice Cream Sundae Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Reese’s Ice Cream Sundae Cake is an easy-to-make dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite. You’ll love how the chocolate cake complements the cold, creamy ice cream, while the peanut butter and Reese’s add rich flavor and crunch. It’s perfect for birthday parties, potlucks, or any special occasion, and the best part? It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead for ultimate convenience. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, peanut butter, or both, this cake is guaranteed to become a favorite!

Ingredients

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 pint vanilla ice cream, softened
  • 1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
  • 1/2 cup crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups
  • 1/2 cup whipped cream
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Prepare and bake the cake in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely.

  2. Add Ice Cream: After the cake has cooled, poke several holes in the surface of the cake with a fork. Spread the softened vanilla ice cream over the cake and freeze for 2-3 hours until firm.

  3. Layer Toppings: Once the ice cream is set, drizzle the warm hot fudge sauce and peanut butter over the frozen ice cream layer. Sprinkle with crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, mini chocolate chips, and graham crackers (if using).

  4. Finish Off: Top with whipped cream and a final drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness and flavor.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Freezing Time: 2-3 hours
  • Servings: 12 servings

This dessert takes minimal time to prepare, but the freezing time allows the cake to fully set, ensuring each slice is perfectly chilled and layered.

Variations

  • Peanut Butter Ice Cream: Swap the vanilla ice cream for peanut butter ice cream for an even more indulgent flavor.
  • Nuts: Add crushed peanuts or almonds to the topping for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy peanut butter.
  • Other Sauces: Try using chocolate syrup or even butterscotch sauce instead of the caramel or hot fudge.
  • Dairy-Free: You can make this dessert dairy-free by using a dairy-free chocolate cake mix and plant-based ice cream.
  • Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftover cake in the freezer, covered with plastic wrap or foil, to maintain its frozen texture. It can stay in the freezer for up to a week.
  • Reheating: This dessert is best served frozen, so there’s no need to reheat. However, you can leave it at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you want it to soften slightly.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake, add the ice cream, and freeze it in advance. Just add the toppings before serving for the best texture.

2. Can I use any chocolate cake mix?

Yes, any standard chocolate cake mix will work for this recipe. If you prefer, you can make the cake from scratch as well.

3. Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?

Absolutely! While vanilla pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, you can swap it for chocolate, peanut butter, or even a caramel flavor for a different twist.

4. How can I make this cake more peanut buttery?

You can increase the amount of peanut butter in the topping or even swirl some peanut butter into the ice cream layer before freezing.

5. How long should I freeze the cake before serving?

Freeze the cake for at least 2-3 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and set. If you freeze it longer, it will stay well-preserved.

6. Can I use frozen whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream?

Yes, frozen whipped topping works as well, but it may have a different texture compared to fresh whipped cream.

7. Can I add other candy to this cake?

Yes, feel free to add other candy like M&Ms, Snickers, or even chocolate chunks to the topping for extra flavor and texture.

8. Is this cake very sweet?

Yes, this cake is a dessert lover’s dream, and it is quite sweet, especially with the hot fudge and caramel drizzle. You can adjust the toppings to your taste to control the sweetness.

9. Can I make a smaller version of this cake?

Yes, you can make a smaller version by halving the ingredients and baking it in an 8×8-inch dish.

10. How do I know when the cake is fully cooled?

Allow the cake to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before adding the ice cream. The cake should no longer feel warm to the touch.

Conclusion

Reese’s Ice Cream Sundae Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. This dessert brings together the best of all worlds—rich cake, creamy ice cream, gooey fudge, and crunchy toppings. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a special indulgence, this cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it. Don’t forget to get creative with the variations and toppings to make it your own!

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