Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate (and really, who isn’t?), then this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. It combines the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter, decadent chocolate cake, and gooey chocolate chips into a dessert that practically melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s so easy to make no mixing, no fuss, just dump and bake.

This dessert is a dream come true for peanut butter cup lovers. It’s the perfect indulgent treat for parties, family gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and comforting. The simplicity of this dump cake makes it a quick and effortless dessert that delivers an impressive, decadent result. With layers of gooey chocolate cake and peanut butter cups, topped with a little whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

It’s no surprise that dump cakes have earned a spot in the hearts of home bakers they’re easy, customizable, and absolutely delicious. This Peanut Butter Cup version is a playful twist on the classic, and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix, whole milk, creamy peanut butter, and melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The peanut butter will add richness and a velvety texture to the cake.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Next, dump the entire box of chocolate cake mix into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix everything together using a spoon or spatula until fully incorporated. You should have a thick, slightly lumpy batter. This is normal the cake mix will work its magic during baking.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it covers the bottom of the dish. Don’t worry if the batter seems a bit thick; it will spread and bake into a moist, fudgy cake.

Step 5: Add Peanut Butter Cups and Chocolate Chips

Now, it’s time to add the fun part! Sprinkle the chopped mini peanut butter cups and milk chocolate chips over the top of the cake batter. These little bits of peanut butter and chocolate will melt into the cake, creating delicious pockets of gooey goodness throughout. For an extra crunch, you can also sprinkle chopped peanuts on top if you like a little added texture.

Step 6: Bake and Wait for the Magic

Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The top will become golden brown, and the center should be soft but set. You’ll notice the peanut butter cups and chocolate chips beginning to melt into the cake.

Check the cake after 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven. If it’s still too gooey, let it bake for another 5 minutes and check again.

Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve

Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the cake to firm up a bit. Serve it warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess will balance the warm, gooey cake perfectly.

Variation Ideas:

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways you can customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

1. Peanut Butter Cup Alternatives
If you prefer a different type of candy, feel free to swap the mini peanut butter cups for Reese’s Pieces, chopped Snickers bars, or even regular-sized peanut butter cups. You could also try other candy like M&Ms or chopped Kit-Kats for a twist on the classic.

2. Gluten-Free Version
If you’re looking for a gluten-free version of this cake, simply swap the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Be sure to check that your instant pudding mix is also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same!

3. Vegan Version
To make a vegan-friendly Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, you can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Use almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk, and swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute. There are also plenty of vegan-friendly peanut butter options available. Just be sure to choose a dairy-free whipped cream or ice cream for serving.

Cooking Notes:

• Texture: This cake has a rich, fudgy texture thanks to the pudding mix and peanut butter. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can omit the pudding mix and just stick to the cake mix. However, I highly recommend using the pudding mix for that extra indulgent bite.
• Chopped Candy: Be sure to chop your peanut butter cups into small pieces so they melt evenly throughout the cake. If they are too large, they might not melt as well or distribute throughout the cake.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake to avoid overbaking. The cake should still be soft and gooey in the middle, so don’t worry if it looks a little undercooked when you remove it from the oven.

Serving Suggestions:

This dessert is rich and indulgent on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few side dishes or toppings to elevate it further.

1. Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing with warm chocolate desserts, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like chocolate, peanut butter, or caramel for an even more decadent experience.

2. Whipped Cream: Lighten up the richness of the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. You can even add a touch of vanilla or cinnamon to the whipped cream to make it more exciting.

3. Fresh Fruit: For a balance of sweetness and freshness, serve the cake with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries. The fruit’s tartness will contrast nicely with the rich chocolate and peanut butter.

4. Coffee or Milk: Pair this cake with a cup of hot coffee or a tall glass of milk. Both beverages complement the dessert and provide the perfect finishing touch.

Tips:

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. The cake can also be refrigerated if you want it to last a bit longer.
• Freezing: To freeze the cake, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it in the oven.
• Meal Prep: If you’re planning a party or holiday gathering, this dump cake is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, then just bake it right before serving.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 450 (per serving, assuming 10 servings) Protein: 5g Sodium: 350mg Carbohydrates: 60g Fat: 22g

FAQs:

1. Can I make this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake without peanut butter?
Yes! If you have a peanut allergy or just prefer a different flavor, you can swap the peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. You can also replace the peanut butter cups with caramel-filled chocolates or chocolate chunks for a different take on the recipe. The texture will still be rich and gooey, and you’ll get that delicious chocolatey goodness without the peanut flavor.

2. What’s the best way to serve this cake?
This cake is best served warm so that the peanut butter and chocolate stay gooey and melty. For an extra indulgent treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle with chocolate syrup or warm peanut butter for even more decadence. If you love a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels over the top for a sweet-and-salty contrast.

3. How do I store leftovers, and can I reheat them?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. If the cake has dried out slightly, add a drizzle of warm milk or a little extra peanut butter before reheating to restore moisture.

Conclusion:

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and gooey melted candy, making it an indulgent and effortless dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party, holiday gathering, or just enjoying a cozy night at home, this cake delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

The beauty of this dump cake is in its simplicity no complicated mixing, no extra dishes, just layer, bake, and enjoy. The combination of chocolate cake mix, pudding, and peanut butter creates a fudgy, decadent texture, while the peanut butter cups and chocolate chips add delightful pockets of gooey sweetness. Topping it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level, making each bite melt in your mouth.

Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe is highly versatile. You can swap out the candy, adjust the toppings, or even make it gluten-free or vegan with simple substitutions. It’s a no-fail dessert that is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

So, whether you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate or just looking for an easy dessert that will wow your family and friends, this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a must-try. Bake it once, and it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every warm, chocolatey, peanut buttery bite!

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