Close-up of Crockpot Reese's cake on a white plate, topped with Reese's cups and warm peanut butter drizzle.

Crockpot Reese’s Cake: The Easiest Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert

Crockpot Reese’s cake is the easiest way to satisfy your chocolate and peanut butter cravings with minimal effort. This rich and gooey dessert only takes 15 minutes of prep, and your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Forget about layering or babysitting an oven—this is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it treat for busy nights or when you’re hosting a casual gathering.

What makes this dessert a game-changer? It combines the classic smooth, salty-sweet flavor of Reese’s with the rich texture of a chocolate cake, all made hands-free in your slow cooker. That means while this cake bakes to perfection, you can focus on everything else—or just kick back and relax. Trust me, you won’t believe how simple and indulgent this slow cooker recipe is!

Crockpot Reese's cake

Why This Crockpot Reese’s Cake Is a Game-Changer

  • Hands-off cooking: Once you toss everything into the slow cooker, you can walk away for two hours—no constant checking or stirring needed.
  • Faster cleanup: Since it’s made in the slow cooker, you save on dishes. Spray the insert with nonstick spray beforehand, and cleanup is a breeze.
  • Consistent results: Slow cooking ensures the cake comes out moist and evenly cooked every time.
  • Perfect for multitaskers: While your cake is cooking, you can meal prep, tidy up, or just relax—your call.
  • No special skills required: You can whip this up whether you’re a baking pro or a total beginner.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Crockpot Reese’s Cake

The star of the show here is your trusty slow cooker. Whether you have a high-tech multi-cooker or a budget-friendly Crockpot, this recipe works perfectly.

  • Slow cooker: Look for one with a 6-quart capacity for best results. If yours is smaller, adjust the recipe scale accordingly.
  • Nonstick spray: Essential to make sure the cake turns out easily without sticking to the sides.
  • Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining the cake batter before pouring it into the slow cooker.
  • Small saucepan: To melt and sweeten the peanut butter topping.

Simple Ingredients for Crockpot Reese’s Cake

This shortcut dessert uses everyday ingredients you can grab at any grocery store.

  • Devil’s food cake mix: The foundation for a moist and rich chocolate flavor. Any boxed mix works.
  • Mini Reese’s cups: These melt into gooey pockets of chocolate and peanut butter throughout the cake.
  • Creamy peanut butter: The base for the irresistible warm topping. Don’t substitute with crunchy; it won’t melt as smoothly.
  • Powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter topping for that perfect candy-like finish.

Crockpot Reese’s Cake Recipe Details

  • Servings: 10
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Complete Ingredients List

  • 15.25 oz. devil’s food cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 8 oz. pkg. mini Reese’s peanut butter cups
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 Tbsp. powdered sugar
  • 10 bite-sized Reese’s peanut butter cups (for topping)

How to Make Crockpot Reese’s Cake

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Don’t worry if some small lumps remain—they’ll bake out beautifully. Gently fold in the mini Reese’s peanut butter cups.
  2. Spray your slow cooker insert generously with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Pour the cake batter into the slow cooker and spread it into an even layer.
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid—the steam keeps the cake moist!
  5. Turn off the slow cooker and carefully remove the insert to stop the cooking process.
  6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the peanut butter, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once smooth, whisk in the powdered sugar until combined.
  7. Pour the sweetened peanut butter mixture over the warm cake, letting it seep into the nooks and crannies.
  8. Top with halved Reese’s peanut butter cups for garnish. Slice and serve warm.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Crockpot Reese’s Cake

  • Know your slow cooker: Cooking times can vary slightly between models. Start checking for doneness after 1 hour, 45 minutes.
  • Use parchment paper: For easy removal, line the slow cooker with parchment before adding batter.
  • Make it ahead: This cake stores beautifully in the fridge. Just reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
  • Don’t overdo the stirring: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined.
  • Store smartly: Let the cake cool before placing leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Easy Crockpot Reese’s Cake Variations

  • Make it nut-free: Substitute Reese’s with mini marshmallows and use chocolate spread instead of peanut butter for the topping.
  • Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or pretzel bits on top for contrasting texture.
  • Double chocolate: Stir in milk chocolate chips along with the mini Reese’s for extra richness.
  • Festive twist: Swap the Reese’s topping for holiday-themed candies to fit the occasion.

Crockpot Reese’s Cake FAQs

Can I make this cake in the oven instead?

Yes! Bake the batter in a greased 9×13 pan at 350°F for 25–30 minutes or as directed on the cake mix box.

What’s the best slow cooker size for this recipe?

A 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this cake. If you use a smaller Crockpot, you may need to reduce the recipe or cooking time slightly.

Do I have to use Reese’s cups?

No, you can substitute with any favorite candy, like chocolate-coated caramels or toffee pieces.

How do I store leftovers?

Let the cake cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the topping?

It’s not recommended; creamy peanut butter melts more smoothly and creates a better texture for the topping.

And that’s it! Crockpot Reese’s cake is proof that your trusty slow cooker can handle dessert just as well as dinner. With minimal prep and a foolproof method, this rich, gooey treat is worth every calorie. What’s your favorite slow cooker dessert hack? Let me know in the comments below!

Close-up of Crockpot Reese's cake on a white plate, topped with Reese's cups and warm peanut butter drizzle.

Crockpot Reese’s Cake

This Crockpot Reese’s cake is a delicious and easy dessert that combines chocolate and peanut butter flavors seamlessly. With minimal prep time and maximum indulgence, it’s the perfect addition to any gathering. Enjoy this slow cooker dessert recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 15.25 oz. devil’s food cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 8 oz. pkg. mini Reese’s peanut butter cups
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 Tbsp. powdered sugar
  • 10 bite-sized Reese’s peanut butter cups (for topping)

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Don’t worry if some small lumps remain—they’ll bake out beautifully. Gently fold in the mini Reese’s peanut butter cups.
  2. Spray your slow cooker insert generously with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Pour the cake batter into the slow cooker and spread it into an even layer.
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid—the steam keeps the cake moist!
  5. Turn off the slow cooker and carefully remove the insert to stop the cooking process.
  6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the peanut butter, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once smooth, whisk in the powdered sugar until combined.
  7. Pour the sweetened peanut butter mixture over the warm cake, letting it seep into the nooks and crannies.
  8. Top with halved Reese’s peanut butter cups for garnish. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Optional recipe notes or tips.
Jake - Kitchen Shortcuts Author

Written by Jake

Hi, I’m Jake — the home cook behind Kitchen Shortcuts. I create easy crockpot meals and slow cooker recipes designed for busy families who want flavorful home-cooked food with less effort.

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