If you’re a true dessert aficionado, you know there’s no pairing quite as iconic — or as irresistible — as chocolate and peanut butter. Now imagine that heavenly combination rolled up into a light, moist cake filled with luscious peanut butter cream, and generously sprinkled with bits of Reese’s peanut butter cups. Welcome to the ultimate indulgence: the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Roll Cake.
This dessert isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience — from the first melt-in-your-mouth bite to the rich, decadent finish that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
Let’s dive into how this masterpiece came to life, why it’s winning hearts everywhere, and how you can easily recreate it at home.
-A Sweet Backstory: How Reese’s Became a Household Name
The story of Reese’s is as delicious as its candy. In the 1920s, Harry Burnett Reese, a former dairy farmer working for Milton S. Hershey, created a candy company of his own in his basement. His idea? Blend smooth peanut butter with rich Hershey’s milk chocolate. By the 1930s, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup was born, quickly becoming one of the best-selling candies in America.
The love affair between chocolate and peanut butter has inspired countless desserts over the decades — but the Peanut Butter Cup Roll Cake brings this combination to new heights, marrying the classic flavors with the elegance of a rolled sponge cake.
-Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Roll Cake, gather these simple, easy-to-find ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (devil’s food cake works wonderfully)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
For the Filling:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Topping:
1 1/2 cups whipped topping
8–10 mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
1/4 cup melted chocolate (optional drizzle)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick baking spray.
Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the box directions (using eggs, water, and oil). Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth out the surface.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
2. Roll the Cake
Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, carefully flip it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel away the parchment paper.
Starting at the short end, roll the cake up with the towel inside. Set aside to cool completely.
3. Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cake
Once the cake is cool, unroll it carefully. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly across the surface.
Sprinkle a few chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups over the filling for extra bursts of flavor.
Re-roll the cake (without the towel this time) as tightly as you can without squeezing out the filling.
5. Decorate
Frost the outside of the roll with more whipped topping.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining chopped Reese’s, and drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
-Tips for the Perfect Roll Cake
Don’t overbake the cake or it will crack when you roll it.
Roll while warm: It’s easier to shape a warm cake without breaking it.
Use parchment paper: It helps the cake release easily from the pan.
Cool completely before filling: This prevents the whipped topping from melting.
Chop the Reese’s cups into small pieces for easier rolling and cleaner slices.
-Creative Variations
Want to get even more decadent? Try one of these mouthwatering twists:
Chocolate Ganache Topping: Replace the whipped topping frosting with a glossy ganache for an even richer experience.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini peanut butter chips inside the filling for extra texture.
Different Reese’s Varieties: Use white chocolate Reese’s or dark chocolate versions for unique flavors.
Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Filling: Add 2 oz softened cream cheese to the peanut butter mixture for tangy richness.
-How to Serve
For a truly show-stopping presentation:
Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Add a dollop of whipped cream and a mini Reese’s on each slice.
Serve slightly chilled for best texture.
-Storing and Freezing
To Store:
Wrap the roll cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy yet impressive: Looks bakery-worthy but is very beginner-friendly.
Customizable: Change the filling, toppings, or type of Reese’s for endless variations.
Perfect for celebrations: Birthdays, holidays, potlucks — it’s a guaranteed hit!
-Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this roll cake a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, chilling overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully.
2. What if my cake cracks?
No worries — just cover any imperfections with whipped topping and lots of Reese’s pieces!
3. Can I use homemade chocolate cake?
Yes! Any thin, soft chocolate sponge recipe will work.
4. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the towel?
Dust the towel liberally with powdered sugar and work quickly while the cake is still warm.
5. Can I use chunky peanut butter?
You can, but smooth peanut butter makes a silkier filling.
6. Is whipped cream an okay substitute for whipped topping?
Yes, but stabilized whipped cream (with a bit of cornstarch or gelatin) holds up better.
7. Can I make mini roll cakes instead?
Definitely! Cut the cake into strips, fill and roll individually for adorable mini desserts.
8. What else can I sprinkle inside besides Reese’s?
Mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or crushed pretzels work great!
9. Should I refrigerate leftovers?
Yes, always keep this cake chilled for best taste and texture.
10. How do I get clean slices?
Use a very sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
-Related Recipes You’ll Love
Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle
Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
-Final Thoughts
The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Roll Cake is a stunning dessert that’s guaranteed to wow your family and guests. With a tender chocolate sponge, dreamy peanut butter filling, and the unbeatable crunch of Reese’s pieces, it’s pure happiness in every bite.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or just treating yourself after a long week, this recipe is destined to become a new favorite. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again — it’s that good!
