Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. True to its name, this recipe involves layering ingredients directly into a baking dish, then letting the oven work its magic. The result is a warm, gooey cake with pockets of melted peanut butter cups and rich chocolate throughout.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare. There is no complicated mixing or special technique required.
The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates a classic flavor pairing that is widely loved. The texture is soft and slightly gooey, making it ideal for serving warm.
Another reason to appreciate this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the amount of peanut butter cups, add extra chocolate, or even incorporate nuts for additional texture.
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Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake: Rich, Gooey, and Effortlessly Indulgent
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An easy and indulgent Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake made with layers of chocolate cake mix, creamy peanut butter, and melty peanut butter cups. This gooey dessert is rich, chocolatey, and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter cups, chopped
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread peanut butter evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups over the peanut butter layer.
- Evenly sprinkle dry chocolate cake mix over the top.
- Pour milk evenly over the cake mix.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and set in the center.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Do not stir the layers—this is a true dump cake.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chocolate cake mix
Forms the base of the dessert and creates a soft, rich texture.
Peanut butter cups (chopped)
Provide creamy, melted pockets of peanut butter and chocolate.
Peanut butter (creamy)
Enhances the peanut flavor and adds richness.
Unsalted butter (melted)
Helps create a moist, gooey consistency.
Milk
Adds moisture to the cake mix.
Chocolate chips (optional)
Intensify the chocolate flavor.
Chopped peanuts (optional)
Add crunch and texture.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the chopped peanut butter cups evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, milk, melted butter, and peanut butter. Stir until just combined.
Pour the batter evenly over the peanut butter cups.
Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped peanuts on top if desired.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is set but still slightly soft in the center.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm for a gooey texture.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: About 45–50 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.
Freezing is possible for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake can be customized easily. For a deeper peanut flavor, drizzle additional peanut butter over the batter before baking.
I have experimented with using a fudge cake mix instead of regular chocolate cake mix, which made the dessert even richer.
You can substitute mini peanut butter cups for easier distribution.
For added crunch, sprinkle crushed pretzels on top before baking.
If you prefer a slightly less sweet dessert, reduce the number of peanut butter cups or add a pinch of sea salt on top after baking.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (based on 12 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 38 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overbake
A slightly soft center ensures a gooey texture.
Spread Evenly
Distribute peanut butter cups for consistent flavor.
Serve Warm
This dessert is best enjoyed freshly baked.
Add Ice Cream
Vanilla ice cream complements the richness perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, vanilla or fudge cake mixes also work well.
Do I need to mix the cake batter fully?
Mix until just combined to avoid overworking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, reheat before serving for best texture.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, it adds extra texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce added peanut butter cups for less sweetness.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter in every bite. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or comforting evenings at home. Easy to customize and best served warm, this dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet craving.
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