If you have a sweet tooth and adore the magical combination of chocolate and peanut butter, you are going to fall head over heels for this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe. It’s that perfect dessert to whip up without fuss, delivering layers of rich chocolate cake embedded with chunks of melty peanut butter cups, crowned with fluffy whipped topping. Whether you’re entertaining friends or craving a cozy treat, this gooey, decadent dump cake brings joy and comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity and those few, but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—whether it’s the chocolate cake mix creating a moist base, creamy peanut butter cups adding melty pockets of flavor, or the whipped topping providing a cloud-like finish.
- Chocolate cake mix: The foundation that makes this cake easy yet unbelievably moist and chocolatey.
- Water: Helps to bind the cake batter while keeping it soft and tender.
- Vegetable oil: Adds fat for richness and ensures the cake stays wonderfully moist.
- Large eggs: Give structure and stability to the batter for perfect rising.
- Chopped peanut butter cups: The star ingredient, bringing gooey peanut butter and chocolate pockets throughout.
- Chocolate chips: An extra touch of melty chocolate for added indulgence.
- Whipped topping (non-dairy): Adds lightness and a creamy finish that perfectly balances the rich cake.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake your cake to perfection as soon as the batter is mixed. Don’t forget to grease your 9×13 inch baking dish well to prevent any sticky situations later—this simple step guarantees easy serving and clean edges every time.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until you get a smooth, lump-free batter. This is the base of your cake, so mix just enough for everything to combine beautifully without over-beating.
Step 3: Fold in the Peanut Butter Cups and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips with a spatula, making sure these delicious surprises are evenly distributed but not smashed. This will give your cake those delightful bursts of flavor and texture that make it unforgettable.
Step 4: Pour and Spread the Batter
Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly for consistent baking. This helps every slice have that perfect balance of cake and peanut butter cup goodness.
Step 5: Bake Until Almost Done
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick—it should come out mostly clean, though a few gooey bits are allowed if the pick happens to hit melted peanut butter cup pieces. This is your signal that the cake is perfectly baked but still moist and indulgent.
Step 6: Cool and Top with Whipped Topping
Let the cake cool for 10 to 15 minutes—this resting time lets flavors meld and makes it easier to serve. Then, generously top with whipped topping just before serving to add a light, creamy contrast to the dense cake underneath.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra wow factor, sprinkle some crushed peanut butter cups or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the whipped topping. A drizzle of chocolate syrup can also elevate the presentation and add a final chocolate kiss.
Side Dishes
This dessert stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream pairs perfectly. The cool creaminess complements the warm, rich cake like a dream.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in clear glass bowls so those layers of cake, peanut butter cups, and whipped topping shine through. You can even add a fresh mint leaf or a few chopped nuts for texture and a pop of color that makes it look extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate it to keep it fresh for around four days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it just as delicious, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this dump cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or place the whole cake in a warm oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes. Add whipped topping fresh after reheating to refresh the creamy topping texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake mix instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! You can substitute with your favorite homemade chocolate cake batter, just make sure it’s enough to fill a 9×13 inch pan and keep a similar consistency for best results.
Are peanut butter cups the only option for mix-ins?
You could experiment with different chocolates or candies, but the peanut butter cups give this cake its signature flavor. Switching them out will change the classic taste, but you can try chopped Reese’s pieces or even nuts for a twist.
Is the whipped topping necessary?
While it’s not mandatory, topping the cake with whipped topping adds a lovely lightness and a creamy contrast to the dense chocolate and peanut butter. It really finishes the dish beautifully.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and verify that your peanut butter cups and chocolate chips are gluten-free to keep the dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How long does this cake last once baked?
When kept properly covered at room temperature, it lasts about two days, or refrigerated for up to four days without losing its deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe that makes it a go-to for chocolate and peanut butter lovers everywhere. It’s easy to make, delightfully rich, and just baking it fills your home with irresistible aromas. Give it a try for your next gathering or simple dessert craving—you won’t regret it!
Print
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is an easy-to-make, decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with chunks of peanut butter cups and melty chocolate chips. Topped with creamy non-dairy whipped topping, this dessert is perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers craving a quick, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
Mix-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup whipped topping (non-dairy)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Add Peanut Butter Cups and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter to infuse the cake with rich flavors.
- Pour Batter into Baking Dish: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Slight gooeyness is acceptable if the toothpick touches a peanut butter cup.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes to set. Serve topped with 1 cup of non-dairy whipped topping for a creamy finish.
Notes
- You can substitute regular whipped topping if not avoiding dairy.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.
- Ensure the baking dish is properly greased to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Allowing the cake to cool slightly improves sliceability and serving.
- Chopped peanut butter cups add extra texture and flavor—feel free to adjust the quantity to taste.
