Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm, gooey hug, look no further than this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. Overflowing with luscious peanut butter, melted chocolate, and the nostalgic crunch of peanut butter cups, it’s the kind of treat you’ll want to make again and again. What makes this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake truly magical is how effortlessly all those decadent flavors come together in one pan, with minimal prep but maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family night or impressing guests with something truly indulgent, this dessert never fails to delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is simple yet crucial for crafting a Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake that’s rich, moist, and bursting with peanut buttery goodness. Each component plays an important role, from the creamy texture of peanut butter to the light crumb topping of chocolate cake mix.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Provides the smooth, nutty base flavor that ties the whole dessert together.
• 1.5 cups chopped peanut butter cups: Adds delightful chunks of chocolate and peanut butter for texture and bursts of sweetness.
• 1 can (400 g) sweetened condensed milk: Infuses rich, creamy sweetness that keeps the cake moist and luscious.
• 1 box (432 g) chocolate cake mix, dry: Creates a light, cakey topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
• 115 g unsalted butter, melted: Drizzled on top to give the cake golden color and a tender crumb.
• 175 g milk chocolate chips: Sprinkled on for extra melty chocolate pockets and a glossy finish.
• Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Perfect for serving, these cool extras complement the warm cake with creamy contrast.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Next, generously grease a 23×33 cm (9×13-inch) baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This not only prevents sticking but helps the edges of your cake turn beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 2: Spread the Creamy Peanut Butter Layer

Get your spoon ready because this is the moment where the rich, creamy peanut butter really shines. Spread 1 cup of creamy peanut butter evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This thick base layer guarantees every slice will be packed with nutty flavor.

Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter Cup Candy Layer

Now, sprinkle half of your chopped peanut butter cups over the peanut butter. These little pockets of chocolate and peanut butter add unexpected texture and bursts of sweetness throughout the cake, turning every bite into a delightful surprise.

Step 4: Pour on the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Carefully pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the candy layer. This ingredient is the secret weapon that makes the cake incredibly moist and decadently rich, soaking through the layers as it bakes.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Dry Chocolate Cake Mix

Next, evenly sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix right on top. Do not stir or mix; leaving it dry on top creates a wonderful contrast in texture once baked—soft and gooey underneath, with a slightly crisp chocolatey topping.

Step 6: Drizzle Melted Butter

Drizzle the melted butter all over the surface to help the cake develop that irresistible golden crust. Make sure you cover as much of the cake mix as possible for an even bake and crunchy finish.

Step 7: Top With Chocolate Chips and Remaining Peanut Butter Cups

Sprinkle the milk chocolate chips and the remaining chopped peanut butter cups over the top. These finishing touches create melty pockets of chocolate and enhance the cake’s visual appeal with little chocolatey gems scattered everywhere.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbling and Crisp

Bake your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and slightly crisp, with the edges pulling away from the baking dish just a little. The scent alone will have you eagerly waiting!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps all the gooey layers set up perfectly. Serve warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the rich sweetness.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Garnishes

To elevate your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts on top. These add a bit of shine and crunch. A few extra chopped peanut butter cups make for an irresistible finishing touch that screams indulgence.

Side Dishes

This cake is a decadent dessert best enjoyed with simple, fresh sides. A bowl of fresh berries or a lightly dressed green salad adds a bright counterpoint. Or serve alongside a refreshing glass of cold milk or coffee for a classic pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try serving the cake in individual ramekins topped with a scoop of ice cream and a mini peanut butter cup as garnish. Another fun idea is to turn leftovers into decadent parfaits layered with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a fresh twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate to keep it fresh for up to four days. Warming slightly before serving brings back the gooey magic.

Freezing

If you want to make this dessert ahead or save leftovers for later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warm throughout. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and nutty crunch, which some people love. Just know it might slightly change the smoothness of the base layer, but it’s delicious either way.

Do I need to mix the cake batter?

Nope! One of the beauties of a Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is that you simply sprinkle the dry cake mix on top without stirring. This allows the condensed milk and butter to soak through and create that signature layered texture.

Can I substitute peanut butter cups with other candies?

You can definitely experiment! However, the classic peanut butter cup combination is what makes this dessert stand out. Swapping in chocolate chips or other nutty candies changes the flavor profile but can still be tasty.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Since the recipe uses a boxed chocolate cake mix, it is usually not gluten-free unless you specifically find a gluten-free mix. For a gluten-free version, look for certified gluten-free cake mixes.

How long does this cake take to prepare?

This recipe is wonderfully quick – prep takes about 10 minutes and baking around 35-40 minutes, making it an easy, last-minute dessert option that will wow everyone.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, it’s going to become a go-to recipe for cozy nights at home and special occasions. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate with that luscious texture is pure joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to give it a whirl – it’s comfort food at its finest, with the bonus of being so easy to make. Your future self will thank you for this delightful indulgence!

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