Reese’s Ice Cream Sundae Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Reese’s Ice Cream Sundae Cake is a true showstopper! It’s not just a cake; it’s a multi-layered indulgence that blends the richness of chocolate with the cool creaminess of ice cream and the decadent taste of peanut butter. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, from the soft chocolate cake to the smooth ice cream, followed by crunchy peanut butter cups and optional crunchy toppings like graham crackers and mini chocolate chips. Topped off with whipped cream and drizzled with caramel and fudge, it's an irresistible treat that will wow your guests and leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream, softened
• ½ cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• ½ cup crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups
• ½ cup whipped cream
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
• ¼ cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
• ¼ 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. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and prepare the cake batter as directed. Once mixed, pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake as directed. Allow the cake to cool completely before moving on to the next step.

2. Add Ice Cream: After the cake has cooled, poke several holes in it with a fork. Then, spread the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the cake. Place the cake in the freezer and let it freeze for 2-3 hours to allow the ice cream to set.

3. Layer Toppings: Once the ice cream is frozen, drizzle the warmed hot fudge sauce and creamy peanut butter over the ice cream layer. Top with the crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups and, if desired, sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and crushed graham crackers for added crunch.

4. Finish Off: Add a generous layer of whipped cream on top and finish by drizzling caramel sauce for that final touch of sweetness.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Cake Flavor: You can swap the chocolate cake mix with any flavor of your choice. Vanilla or red velvet cake can also work wonderfully.
• Ice Cream: Try swapping the vanilla ice cream with chocolate, peanut butter, or even cookie dough for a different flavor twist.
• Toppings: Switch up the toppings! Feel free to use crushed Oreos, Snickers, or M&M’s in place of the Reese's peanut butter cups for a fun variation.
• Sauces: Experiment with other sauces like butterscotch or chocolate syrup for even more flavor combinations.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers should be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 1-2 weeks. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so keep it frozen until you're ready to serve.
• Reheating: Since this is an ice cream dessert, it’s meant to be served cold, so there is no need to reheat. However, if you want to enjoy the hot fudge sauce again, you can microwave individual servings for 20-30 seconds, but be sure not to melt the ice cream.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in the freezer, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chocolate cake mix with any flavor you prefer, such as vanilla, spice cake, or even a carrot cake mix.

Is it necessary to freeze the ice cream layer for 2-3 hours?

Yes, freezing the ice cream layer ensures it sets properly and doesn’t melt when you add the toppings. If you don’t freeze it long enough, the toppings may sink into the ice cream.

Can I use non-dairy ice cream?

Yes, you can easily substitute dairy-free ice cream to make this dessert suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.

Can I skip the peanut butter topping?

If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can simply leave it out or substitute it with Nutella or almond butter for a different flavor.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping as a substitute for whipped cream, but fresh whipped cream gives it a richer, more luxurious taste.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Can I use other candy for the topping?

Yes, feel free to swap the Reese’s peanut butter cups with other types of candy, like Snickers, Kit-Kats, or chopped chocolate bars.

How do I prevent the ice cream from melting when spreading it on the cake?

Make sure the ice cream is softened but not completely melted. This makes it easier to spread without it running off the cake.

Can I make this without the optional toppings?

Yes, the optional toppings like mini chocolate chips, graham crackers, and caramel sauce are just extra touches. The dessert will still be delicious without them.

Conclusion

Reese’s Ice Cream Sundae Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and ice cream. This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, offering layers of flavor, texture, and sweetness that everyone will enjoy. Easy to prepare and completely customizable, this dessert will quickly become a family favorite!