Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. It’s rich, gooey, and loaded with melty peanut butter cups, chocolate chips, and a buttery cake base that comes together with almost no effort. Just dump, bake, and enjoy a warm, decadent treat that tastes like a bakery-style dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter cups (chopped)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, peanut butter, milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is fully combined. The batter will be thick and rich.
Fold in the chocolate chips and about 1 cup of the chopped peanut butter cups. This helps distribute the chocolate and peanut butter flavor throughout the cake.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter cups and brown sugar evenly over the top. This creates a gooey, caramelized layer while baking.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The top should be set, but the inside will remain soft and slightly gooey. Avoid overbaking to keep that rich texture.
Let the cake cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly while still staying warm and gooey. Serve as is or with ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Notes
- Do not overbake or the cake will lose its gooey texture
- Use full-fat peanut butter for the richest flavor
- Let the cake rest before cutting to help it set
- Brown sugar adds a caramel-like layer on top
- Use a glass or ceramic dish for even baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per serving
- Calories: 420
Variations
- Swap yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for extra richness
- Add crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream twist
- Drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter on top
- Add chopped nuts for crunch
- Use mini peanut butter cups for better distribution
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
- Top with whipped cream for a lighter touch
- Pair with a glass of milk or coffee
- Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup
- Serve in small squares, it’s very rich
Tips
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending
- Chop peanut butter cups evenly
- Check the center before removing from oven
- Store leftovers covered to keep moisture
Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 420 per serving
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 25g
FAQs
Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator once it has cooled completely. When ready to serve, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that soft, gooey texture. It’s actually a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.
Why is my dump cake too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it’s usually because it was overbaked. This dessert is meant to stay soft and slightly gooey in the center. Be sure to check it around the 35-minute mark and remove it when the top is set but the inside still looks moist.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
You can, but it may slightly change the texture since natural peanut butter tends to be thinner and more oily. For best results and a richer consistency, regular creamy peanut butter works better in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage. Just thaw and reheat before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with alternatives like applesauce or a flaxseed mixture. However, keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture, making it a bit denser but still delicious.