Introduction
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. This easy-to-make dessert combines the rich flavors of chocolate cake mix, creamy peanut butter, and gooey chocolate pudding, all topped with mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. Perfect for any occasion, this dump cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.
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Dump cakes have gained popularity for their ease of preparation and versatility. They require minimal effort and ingredients, making them ideal for busy schedules and last-minute gatherings. The beauty of a dump cake lies in its simplicity: you essentially “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer them, and bake. This particular recipe takes the classic dump cake to new heights with the addition of peanut butter cups and chocolate chips, creating a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients 🛒
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional for crunch)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
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Directions 👩🍳
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pudding 2. Mix Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth. Set aside to thicken for a few minutes.
Step 3: Layer the Pudding 3. Pour Pudding: Pour the chocolate pudding evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix 4. Sprinkle Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the pudding layer.
Step 5: Drizzle the Butter and Peanut Butter 5. Drizzle Mixtures: Drizzle the melted butter and peanut butter over the cake mix. Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl it into the top layer without fully mixing.
Step 6: Top with Goodies 6. Add Toppings: Scatter the chopped mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips over the top, pressing them lightly into the batter. Add chopped peanuts if desired for extra crunch.
Step 7: Bake 7. Bake Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey.
Step 8: Cool and Serve 8. Serve Warm: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Quick Tip
For an extra indulgent experience, try using a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips for a richer flavor! 🍫
Cooking Note
Ensure that the baking dish is greased well to prevent sticking. The cake should be slightly gooey in the center when done, which adds to its delicious texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. This dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in.
Tips
- Use a fork to gently swirl the butter and peanut butter into the cake mix for a marbled effect.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, you can bake the cake for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to overbake.
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped peanuts and use a nut-free chocolate chip alternative.
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History and Popularity of Dump Cakes
Dump cakes have a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. They were originally created as a quick and easy dessert option for busy homemakers. The simplicity of the recipe—requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation—made it a favorite in many households. Over the years, dump cakes have evolved to include a variety of flavors and ingredients, but their core appeal remains the same: they are easy to make and always delicious.
One of the reasons for the enduring popularity of dump cakes is their adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can use gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version, or substitute dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free option. This flexibility makes dump cakes a versatile choice for any occasion.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Servings: 12
Healthier Alternatives
While this recipe is indulgent and delicious, you can make a few adjustments to create a slightly healthier version. For instance, you can use a sugar-free chocolate cake mix and pudding mix to reduce the sugar content. Additionally, substituting whole milk with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative can cater to those with dietary restrictions. Using a sugar substitute like stevia in place of regular sugar can also help reduce the calorie count.
Cultural Significance of Chocolate and Peanut Butter
The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic pairing that has been beloved for generations. This combination first gained popularity in the early 20th century with the introduction of peanut butter cups. The creamy texture of peanut butter complements the rich, dark flavor of chocolate, creating a harmonious blend that appeals to both children and adults. This pairing has since become a staple in American desserts, from cookies to cakes and beyond.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes, you can use a different type of chocolate cake mix, but ensure it’s a rich, dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Can I make this dessert ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a warm treat.
- Can I use a different type of chocolate? You can use dark chocolate chips or a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Can I freeze this dessert? It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert, as the layers may become soggy upon thawing. However, you can freeze individual slices for a short period if necessary, but the quality may not be the same as fresh.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the best of chocolate and peanut butter. Perfect for any occasion, this dump cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. With its rich flavors and gooey texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
Print
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A rich and gooey Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake loaded with chocolate pudding, peanut butter, mini peanut butter cups, and melted chocolate chips. This easy no-mix dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and requires minimal effort—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional for crunch)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Step 3: Pour the prepared pudding evenly into the greased baking dish.
Step 4: Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the pudding layer—do not mix.
Step 5: Drizzle melted butter and peanut butter over the dry cake mix. Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl the peanut butter into the top layer without fully mixing.
Step 6: Sprinkle chopped mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips over the top, pressing them slightly into the mixture. Add chopped peanuts if desired.
Step 7: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly gooey.
Step 8: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For an even richer flavor, try using a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, add an extra 1/4 cup of chopped peanuts on top before baking.
- Serve with a drizzle of warm peanut butter for extra indulgence!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Sugar: ~28g
- Sodium: ~320mg
- Fat: ~16g
- Saturated Fat: ~7g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~38g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~5g
- Cholesterol: ~25mg
Keywords: Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, Chocolate Dump Cake, Easy Dessert Recipe, Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake, No-Mix Cake