Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

If you’re a chocolate and peanut butter fan, prepare for pure bliss with this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake! With its rich layers of gooey chocolate cake, peanut butter, and melted candy, this dessert is as indulgent as it gets. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, gatherings, or when you’re craving something irresistibly sweet, this dump cake is sure to be a hit.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

1. Effortless Preparation: No need for fancy equipment or techniques just mix, dump, and bake!
2. Irresistible Flavor Combo: Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in dessert heaven.
3. Customizable: Swap in your favorite candies, add nuts, or top with ice cream for extra pizzazz.

Ingredients for Decadent Deliciousness

Base Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix: The foundation of the cake, providing rich, chocolaty goodness.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a smooth, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.

Liquid Components

• 1 cup water: Keeps the cake batter moist and easy to mix.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Enhances the cake’s richness and creates a soft texture.

Toppings

• 1½ cups chopped peanut butter cups: Brings bursts of peanut buttery sweetness in every bite.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: Adds gooey, melty chocolate pockets throughout the cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a dessert masterpiece:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray, butter, or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Chocolate cake mix
• Water
• Creamy peanut butter
• Melted butter

Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well combined. The batter will be thick but easy to spread.

Step 3: Pour the Batter

Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Generously sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips over the top of the batter. These toppings will melt into the cake, creating gooey layers of chocolate and peanut butter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The cake is done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out with only a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before serving. Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. For an extra indulgent treat, pair it with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce

Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake

1. Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the peanut butter and melted butter are at room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake toward the end of the baking time to avoid drying it out.
3. Use Quality Toppings: High-quality peanut butter cups and chocolate chips will enhance the flavor.

Why It’s Called a Dump Cake

The name “dump cake” comes from the method of preparation you simply “dump” the ingredients into the baking dish, mix them up, and bake! It’s the epitome of a no-fuss dessert.

Customizing Your Cake

Swap the Toppings

• Replace peanut butter cups with mini Reese’s Pieces, Snickers chunks, or chopped Oreos.
• Add chopped peanuts or pecans for extra crunch.

Change the Base

• Try a devil’s food or fudge cake mix for an even richer chocolate flavor.
• Use a yellow or peanut butter cake mix for a unique twist.

Add a Surprise Layer

• Spread a layer of peanut butter or Nutella on top of the batter before adding the toppings.
• Sprinkle crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet combo.

Turn It Into a Celebration Cake

• Top with colorful sprinkles for birthdays or parties.
• Drizzle melted white chocolate for a fancy touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is incredibly versatile:

• Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish to any meal.
• Potluck Star: Bring it to potlucks or gatherings watch it disappear in minutes!
• Late-Night Indulgence: Sneak a piece straight from the pan (we won’t tell).

Storage and Reheating

Storing

• Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating

• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to recreate that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Why This Cake is a Crowd-Pleaser

1. Rich and Decadent: Layers of chocolate, peanut butter, and candy make every bite unforgettable.
2. Simple Ingredients: Everything you need can be found in your pantry or at the local store.
3. No-Fail Recipe: Even novice bakers can master this cake with ease.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s a rough estimate based on 12 servings:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! Bake the cake as directed and store it covered at room temperature. Reheat before serving, if desired.

2. Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but the texture may be slightly different. Stir it well before measuring.

3. Can I Freeze This Cake?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.

Why Your Family Will Love It

From the rich chocolate base to the gooey peanut butter candy topping, this cake is a dessert everyone will rave about. Kids love the sweet, melty candy, and adults appreciate how indulgent it feels without being overly complicated.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is everything a dessert should be easy, delicious, and utterly indulgent. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion, sharing it with friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the magic happen!