Midnight Peanut Butter Fudge Cascade Cake

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour this deliciously thick batter into your prepared baking pan.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
5. While waiting, melt the peanut butter and butter together in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
6. Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until fully combined.
7. Once the cake is cool, pour the peanut butter fudge mixture over the top, spreading evenly.
8. For the final touch, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
9. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter fudge layer in a pretty cascade pattern.
10. Let it set before serving, and prepare for compliments!

Best ways to enjoy it

When serving this decadent cake, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, not only add a pop of color but also make a delightful contrast to the rich flavors. For special occasions, serving with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate can really elevate the experience.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To store this cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices — just ensure they’re wrapped well and stored in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Helpful cooking tips

• If you want to save time, use the cake mix method but replace some water with brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• To make the fudge layer even creamier, add an extra tablespoon of butter.
• Consider letting your cake cool in the refrigerator; it will help set the fudge topping quicker, making it easier to slice.

Creative twists

Why not experiment with flavors? You can mix in some crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet variant or use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different spin. For a holiday feel, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg into the fudge layer.

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to prepare?
   Prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30-35 minutes of baking, plus cooling time.

2. Can I substitute the chocolate cake mix?
   Absolutely! You can choose a vanilla cake mix or make it from scratch if you prefer homemade.

3. How long can I store leftovers?
   Leftovers can last in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container!

4. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
   Yes, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap them tightly and they should stay fresh for up to three months.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?
   You can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix as a substitute to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities!

This Midnight Peanut Butter Fudge Cascade Cake is more than just dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings joy to any occasion. Try making it soon and delight in every rich, creamy, chocolatey bite!

Midnight Peanut Butter Fudge Cascade Cake

A rich chocolate cake topped with creamy peanut butter fudge and drizzled with melted chocolate, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the cake

• 1 box box of chocolate cake mix You can substitute with vanilla or gluten-free cake mix.
• 1 cup water Use brewed coffee for enhanced chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 pieces eggs

For the peanut butter fudge layer

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter Can be swapped with crunchy peanut butter.
• 1/2 cup butter Add an extra tablespoon for a creamier texture.
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk

For the chocolate drizzle

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Use white chocolate chips for a different flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Fudge Layer

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the peanut butter and butter together, stirring until smooth.
2. Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until fully combined.
3. Once the cake is cool, pour the peanut butter fudge mixture over the top, spreading evenly.

Chocolate Drizzle

1. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
2. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter fudge layer in a nice cascade pattern.
3. Let it set before serving.

Notes

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and fresh berries for contrast. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.