If you’re craving a warm, chocolatey dessert that’s ridiculously easy to make, then Chocolate Dump Cake is about to become your new favorite. This fuss-free treat is rich, gooey, and requires no fancy techniques—just dump, bake, and enjoy! It’s the ultimate dessert hack that brings together pantry staples into one indulgent, crowd-pleasing dish.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a last-minute dessert for guests, Chocolate Dump Cake delivers major flavor with minimal effort. Just layer the ingredients in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and wait for the magic to happen. The result? A soft, molten-like chocolate cake with melty pockets of goodness in every bite!
Ingredients Notes
For the most decadent version of this classic dessert, you’ll need:
- Chocolate Cake Mix – Any brand will work (devil’s food or fudge is best)
- Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix – Adds moisture and richness
- Milk – Helps the pudding blend into the cake
- Butter – Melted for richness and that perfect gooey texture
- Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet or dark for added melty goodness
- Optional Toppings – Chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or a dusting of powdered sugar
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Bake Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 380 kcal per serving | Servings: 12
How to Make Chocolate Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Pour dry cake mix evenly into the dish
- Sprinkle dry pudding mix on top
- Pour in milk, melted butter, and sprinkle with chocolate chips
- Do not stir! Let the ingredients remain layered
Step 3: Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is set and bubbly around the edges
- Let cool slightly before serving
The Magic of Chocolate Dump Cake
What makes Chocolate Dump Cake so special is its gooey, lava-cake-like center combined with a slightly crisp top. The magic happens when the dry cake mix and pudding are layered with milk and butter—no mixing needed. As it bakes, the layers melt and blend into a soft, chocolatey masterpiece.
The melted chocolate chips throughout add bursts of flavor, and the top gets slightly crispy, creating an irresistible contrast in textures. It’s warm, cozy, and feels like a hug in every bite.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Dump Cake
🍫 Use High-Quality Chocolate Chips – They make all the difference
🍫 Don’t Stir the Layers – Dump and bake is the key to the gooey texture
🍫 Try Milk or Half & Half – For a richer pudding base
🍫 Serve Warm – It’s best enjoyed hot from the oven or reheated
🍫 Add Toppings After Baking – Like ice cream, whipped cream, or berries
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Dump Cake
💖 Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Just layer and bake!
💖 Deep, Decadent Chocolate Taste – Satisfies every craving
💖 Perfect for Beginners – Foolproof and super fast
💖 One Dish = Less Cleanup – No mixing bowls needed
💖 Versatile & Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or even espresso powder
Serving Suggestions
This dump cake is a star on its own, but here’s how to take it over the top:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – The ultimate hot-and-cold combo
- Whipped Cream – Light and airy contrast to the rich cake
- Drizzle of Chocolate Syrup or Caramel – For extra indulgence
- Fresh Berries – Add tartness to balance the richness
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar – For an elegant touch
Variations on the Classic Chocolate Dump Cake
1. S’mores Dump Cake
Layer mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers on top after baking
2. Mocha Chocolate Dump Cake
Add 1 tsp of instant espresso powder to the pudding mix for a coffee kick
3. Nutty Chocolate Dump Cake
Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking
4. Mint Chocolate Dump Cake
Use mint chocolate chips or add ½ tsp peppermint extract
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
Reheating:
- Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds
- You can also reheat the whole dish in the oven at 300°F until warm
Freezing:
- Freeze cooled portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it the day before and simply reheat when ready to serve.
Can I use different cake mix flavors?
Absolutely! Try red velvet, German chocolate, or even spice cake for fun twists.
Can I use homemade pudding mix?
Yes, just make sure it’s instant and dry—not prepared—before dumping.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent finish.
Is it supposed to be gooey in the center?
Yes! That’s the signature texture—fudgy, soft, and molten in the middle.
Conclusion
Chocolate Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that tastes like a rich chocolate lava cake without any of the work. It’s warm, gooey, and perfect for every occasion—from weeknight desserts to potlucks and parties. Just dump, bake, and watch it disappear!
🍫 Save this recipe for when your sweet tooth needs a quick fix or you want to wow your guests with almost zero effort!
