Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

Chocolate and peanut butter lovers will rejoice with this Reese’s Ice Cream Cake! This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a sweet treat on a warm day. The layers of creamy ice cream sandwiches combined with rich peanut butter and decadent sauces make this dessert irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to assemble, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With minimal prep time and no baking required, this cake comes together quickly.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a special treat on a hot day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing; it serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes assembling this fantastic dessert easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Serving platter
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl
• Knife (for chopping candies)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Serving platter: This gives your cake an attractive presentation, making it look festive for any occasion.
• Measuring cups: Ensures you get precise measurements for the ingredients, which is vital for balanced flavors.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows easy mixing of sauces and ingredients without spills.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading whipped topping evenly around the cake.

Ingredients

Chocolate and peanut butter come together in this simple, crowd-pleasing ice cream cake!

For the Base

• 18 vanilla ice cream sandwiches
• 1 cup peanut butter, melted

For the Filling

• 1 9.5 oz package Reese’s peanut butter cups (12 total)
• 6 tablespoons caramel sauce
• 6 tablespoons hot fudge sauce

For Topping

• 2 8 oz containers whipped topping

How to Make Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Arrange the First Layer

Arrange six ice cream sandwiches on a serving platter. Drizzle half of the melted peanut butter over top. Then drizzle two tablespoons of caramel sauce and hot fudge sauce. Finally, sprinkle a third of the chopped Reese’s candies on top.

Step 2: Add More Layers

Place another six ice cream sandwiches on top of the first layer. Drizzle the remaining melted peanut butter over these sandwiches. Again, drizzle two tablespoons each of caramel sauce and hot fudge sauce. Top with another third of the chopped candies.

Step 3: Finish Layering

Top with the last six ice cream sandwiches to complete your cake. Surround the entire cake with whipped topping using a spatula for an even finish.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Drizzle any remaining caramel and hot fudge sauces on top of the cake. Then add the leftover chopped Reese’s candies as a delightful garnish.

Step 5: Freeze Before Serving

Allow your Reese’s Ice Cream Cake to set in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to 4 hours before serving. This helps all flavors meld together beautifully!

How to Serve Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

Serving Reese’s Ice Cream Cake can elevate any gathering, making it a delightful dessert centerpiece. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat for family and friends. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious ice cream cake.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a dessert plate for a neat presentation. Garnish with extra caramel or fudge sauce for added flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the cake with fresh strawberries or bananas. The fruit’s acidity complements the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice. This light topping balances the dense texture of the cake.

Ice Cream Scoops

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The extra creaminess enhances the overall dessert experience.

Chocolate Shavings

• Sprinkle chocolate shavings over each slice. This adds an elegant touch and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Peanut Butter Drizzle

• Drizzle additional melted peanut butter over the slices before serving. It amplifies the peanut butter goodness that everyone loves.

How to Perfect Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

To ensure your Reese’s Ice Cream Cake is a hit every time, follow these simple tips for perfection and flavor enhancement.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for premium ice cream sandwiches and fresh peanut butter for the best taste.
• Chill Before Serving: Let your cake set in the freezer longer than 30 minutes if possible; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Layer Evenly: Ensure that each layer is even in height and ingredients for consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts or crushed cookies between layers for added texture.
• Personalize It: Feel free to swap out some Reese’s cups with your favorite candy bars to create new flavor profiles.
• Serve Cold: Always serve this cake chilled; it maintains its shape better and enhances the refreshing taste of ice cream.

Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

To complement your Reese’s Ice Cream Cake, consider serving it with these delightful side dishes. Each one adds something special to your dessert table, enhancing the overall experience.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   Classic cookies that pair well with ice cream, offering a chewy contrast to the creamy cake.
2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cake.
3. Brownies
   Rich chocolate brownies provide an indulgent option alongside your icy treat, perfect for chocolate lovers.
4. Peanut Butter Cookies
   These cookies echo the flavors in the cake and make for an excellent pairing at any gathering.
5. Caramel Popcorn
   Sweet and crunchy popcorn drizzled with caramel creates a fun snack that complements the dessert theme.
6. Milkshakes
   A thick milkshake can be a delightful drink option that pairs well with the rich flavors of your ice cream cake.
7. Mini Cheesecakes
   These bite-sized desserts offer a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the cold, frozen cake.
8. Pecan Pie Bites
   Small bites of pecan pie deliver nutty sweetness that works harmoniously alongside the chocolate-peanut butter theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reese’s Ice Cream Cake, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Freezer Time: Not allowing the cake to set in the freezer can result in a messy serving. Make sure to freeze for at least 30 minutes, or longer for better results.
• Using Soft Ice Cream: If you use soft ice cream instead of ice cream sandwiches, it may not hold its shape. Stick to ice cream sandwiches for a firmer structure.
• Overloading on Toppings: While toppings are delicious, adding too many can overwhelm the cake. Use them sparingly for balance and flavor.
• Not Chopping the Candies: Leaving Reese’s peanut butter cups whole can make it hard to slice the cake. Chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution and easier serving.
• Ignoring Temperature: Serving the cake too cold can make it hard to cut. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Reese’s Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Not recommended, as this dessert is best served frozen.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 10-15 seconds if needed.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; it’s best enjoyed cold and firm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Reese’s Ice Cream Cake?

Yes! You can add different candies or flavors of ice cream sandwiches to create your own version.

How do I make a gluten-free Reese’s Ice Cream Cake?

Use gluten-free ice cream sandwiches and ensure all toppings are gluten-free as well.

Can I use homemade whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped topping adds a fresh taste to your cake.

What other toppings work well with Reese’s Ice Cream Cake?

Consider adding crushed Oreos, chocolate chips, or drizzled caramel for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Reese’s Ice Cream Cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can customize based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your ideal dessert!