Get ready to fall head over heels for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, the ultimate chocolate and peanut butter dessert that’s as easy as it is decadent. With gooey layers of chocolate pudding, rich cake, and pockets of melty peanut butter cups, this treat is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving an outrageously delicious sweet fix. One bowl, a few minutes of prep, and a whole lot of joy in every warm, fudgy bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Dry Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups (plus more for topping)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This simple step keeps all those delicious layers from sticking and ensures your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake lifts out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Mix the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk for about 2 minutes, until it thickens just a bit. This forms the decadent, gooey base of your cake, infusing every bite with chocolatey richness.
Step 3: Layer the Pudding
Pour the thickened pudding mixture straight into your prepared baking dish. No need to fuss—just spread it out evenly so every corner gets a taste of that chocolate magic.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the pudding layer. It may look a little odd at first, but trust the process—this is the secret to the classic dump cake texture. Resist the urge to stir!
Step 5: Top with Peanut Butter Goodies
Now, scatter the peanut butter chips and chopped peanut butter cups over the cake layer, making sure every bite will get a taste of that irresistible combination. Feel free to be generous—this is the heart of Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake!
Step 6: Drizzle with Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire surface. As it bakes, the butter seeps into the cake mix, creating a crisp, golden top and a moist, tender crumb.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop your creation in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top looks set and slightly crisp. The kitchen will smell amazing, and the cake will have that perfect gooey-meets-cakey texture you crave.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake cool for 10–15 minutes—this makes it easier to scoop and lets the flavors meld. Top with extra chopped peanut butter cups, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Garnishes
For a show-stopping finish, sprinkle extra chopped peanut butter cups on top right as the cake comes out of the oven. A swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds cool, creamy contrast to the warm, gooey cake. You can even drizzle a bit of warm peanut butter or chocolate sauce for a bakery-worthy touch.
Side Dishes
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a star all on its own, but if you want to round things out, pair with a tall glass of cold milk or a mug of strong coffee. For parties, serve alongside fresh berries or a simple fruit salad to balance the rich, chocolatey flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Scoop warm cake into individual ramekins for a cozy, personalized dessert. For a fun twist at potlucks, serve in clear cups to show off those gorgeous layers. If you’re feeling extra playful, sprinkle crushed pretzels or salty peanuts on top for a sweet-and-salty surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, retaining its gooey texture and bold flavor the whole time.
Freezing
For longer storage, cut cooled cake into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.
Reheating
Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or reheat larger portions in a 325°F oven until heated through. Add a fresh scoop of ice cream or whipped cream to revive that just-baked taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?
Absolutely! While chocolate cake mix is classic, you can swap in devil’s food, dark chocolate, or even yellow cake mix for a unique twist. Each one brings a little something different to the party.
Can I make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and double-check that your pudding mix and peanut butter cups are gluten-free. The results are just as gooey and delicious!
What’s the best way to chop peanut butter cups?
For clean, easy chopping, pop the peanut butter cups in the fridge for 15 minutes beforehand. Use a sharp knife and work quickly to keep them from melting in your hands.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped salted peanuts, toffee bits, or even mini marshmallows add extra crunch and flavor. Just sprinkle them on with the peanut butter chips and cups before baking.
Is it okay to prepare Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake ahead of time?
You can assemble the layers up to a day in advance and refrigerate, then bake right before serving. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for parties or busy weeknights!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the chocolate-peanut butter bliss of Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. It’s quick to make, always a crowd-pleaser, and hits that sweet spot every single time. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a rich and gooey chocolate dessert that combines the decadence of chocolate cake mix, creamy peanut butter chips, and chopped peanut butter cups. Easy to assemble with no mixing required, it bakes into a luscious treat perfect for any occasion. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an irresistible indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups (plus more for topping)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make Pudding Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2 minutes.
- Layer Pudding: Pour the thickened pudding mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the pudding layer without stirring, ensuring a uniform layer.
- Scatter Peanut Butter Additions: Evenly sprinkle peanut butter chips and chopped peanut butter cups over the dry cake mix layer.
- Drizzle Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of all layers to help create the gooey, baked texture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is set and slightly crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Top with additional chopped peanut butter cups and serve warm, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- This dessert is rich and gooey—best enjoyed warm for the melty peanut butter effect.
- For a twist, try using dark chocolate cake mix for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Add a drizzle of warm peanut butter on top before serving for extra indulgence.
- Let the cake cool slightly to help it set for easier cutting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
