Imagine this: it’s a chilly evening, your favorite blanket is calling your name, and all you need to complete the cozy scene is a warm, gooey, chocolatey dessert that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Enter the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake—a luscious, crowd-pleasing treat that brings the nostalgic flavors of chocolate cake and peanut butter cups into one insanely indulgent dessert.
Inspired by lazy Sunday afternoons and childhood memories of sneaking peanut butter cups from the candy jar, this recipe takes minimal effort and delivers maximum reward. Whether you’re prepping for a last-minute potluck, planning a movie night, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this dump cake is your go-to comfort dessert. Let’s dive into the easiest way to bake your way to happiness.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
This isn’t just another cake recipe—it’s a dessert revelation. Here’s why this dump cake will quickly become your favorite go-to sweet:
- Super simple to make – One bowl, no mixer, and under 10 minutes of prep.
- Loaded with chocolate and peanut butter goodness – Perfect for Reese’s fans and chocoholics alike.
- Versatile for any occasion – Great warm with ice cream or cooled with whipped cream.
- Crowd-pleaser – Ideal for potlucks, birthday parties, and family dinners.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this cake is nearly foolproof. Let the oven do all the heavy lifting while you bask in the delicious aroma of melted chocolate and warm peanut butter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this crave-worthy dump cake, you only need four simple ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1¾ cups milk
- 1½ cups chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
That’s it! No eggs, no oil, no stress.
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Chocolate or peanut butter drizzle
- Crushed peanuts for a little crunch
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Follow these easy steps to dessert heaven:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth and slightly thickened. This helps give the cake its signature gooey texture.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Stir the chocolate cake mix directly into the pudding mixture. Don’t worry if it’s thick—this is what gives the cake its dense, fudgy consistency.
Step 4: Fold in the Peanut Butter Cups
Chop up your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and fold 1 cup into the batter. These little pockets of peanut butter melt into the cake, adding delicious flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of chopped peanut butter cups on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm for the ultimate cozy treat. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a swirl of whipped cream, or a drizzle of melted peanut butter for a truly decadent experience.
Tips for the Best Dump Cake Experience
- Use full-fat milk for a richer, creamier pudding base.
- Try different candy combinations like mini Snickers, chopped Twix, or M&M’s for a fun twist.
- Drizzle with melted peanut butter or chocolate syrup while the cake is warm for an extra indulgent topping.
- Serve in mugs with a scoop of ice cream for a cute, individual-sized treat perfect for parties.
Make It Your Own: Variations to Try
Looking to shake things up? Here are a few creative spins on the classic Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake:
1. Brownie Bottom Twist
Replace the chocolate cake mix with brownie mix for a denser, more decadent dessert.
2. Nutty Crunch
Add a handful of crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts to the top for extra texture and a salty-sweet combo.
3. Caramel Explosion
Drizzle caramel sauce between layers or over the top for an ooey-gooey caramel kick.
4. S’mores-Inspired
Add mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs to the top 5 minutes before the cake is done baking.
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and enjoy them later:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sugars: 32g
- Protein: 4g
Please note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on your brand of ingredients and serving size.
Perfect Occasions for Dump Cake Delight
This cake is so versatile, you’ll want to make it for every occasion:
- Game nights or movie marathons
- Birthday parties or casual get-togethers
- Thanksgiving or holiday potlucks
- Late-night dessert cravings
No matter the setting, this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake always feels like a warm hug in dessert form.
Why This Recipe is a Social Media Favorite
From TikTok trends to Instagram-worthy slices, this cake practically begs to be shared. It’s photogenic, easy, and totally drool-worthy. Want to make your version stand out?
- Take a boomerang of the melty peanut butter cups.
- Post a before-and-after bake shot.
- Share a bite shot with ice cream slowly melting on top.
And don’t forget to tag your masterpiece with #DumpCakeDreams and #PeanutButterLoversUnite!
Final Thoughts: Time to Dig In!
This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the ultimate fusion of convenience and indulgence. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like it took hours to make—but only took minutes. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe guarantees smiles, satisfied cravings, and maybe even a few requests for seconds.
So go ahead, preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself to something outrageously delicious today. Your inner chocoholic will thank you.