Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
What if you could make a decadent dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor? The Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the answer. This easy-to-make treat combines rich chocolate cake, creamy peanut butter, and melty peanut butter cups for a dessert that feels indulgent yet requires little hands-on time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix 15.25 ounces
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Garnish
- Warm chocolate sauce
- Warm peanut butter drizzle
- Crushed peanuts
- Whipped cream
- Coffee-infused ice cream or vanilla ice cream
- Powdered sugar dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Pan and Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. For easier serving, line the dish with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang on two sides. Greasing beneath the parchment prevents sticking.
Layer the Peanut Butter
- Spread the peanut butter evenly over the bottom of the dish. The layer doesn’t need to be perfect—thin spots will melt into the cake. For easier spreading, microwave the peanut butter for 10 seconds to soften slightly.
Make the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and milk. Whisk until smooth and thick. The batter should be pourable but not watery. This method replaces traditional oil and eggs, creating a denser texture.
Pour and Level the Batter
- Slowly pour the batter over the peanut butter layer. Tilt the dish gently to help it settle into corners without mixing. Do not stir—the layers will combine naturally while baking.
Add the Candy Topping
- Sprinkle mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips evenly over the batter. Press them lightly into the surface so they melt into the cake during baking.
Bake and Rest
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when the edges pull away slightly and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
Notes
Use full-fat dairy for the best texture and moisture. Natural peanut butter works but may separate slightly during baking. For a richer taste, opt for dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.