If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate, then this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. This easy, no-fuss treat combines layers of rich chocolate cake mix, creamy peanut butter, and irresistible peanut butter cups into one gooey, decadent masterpiece. Best of all? It’s called a “dump” cake because you literally dump everything in and bake—no mixing bowls, no stress, just sweet, melty goodness in every bite!
Whether you’re baking for a family get-together, potluck, or just craving something ultra-indulgent, this dump cake is guaranteed to impress. It’s comfort food at its finest and dangerously simple to whip up.
Ingredients Notes
Here’s everything you need to make the magic happen:
- Chocolate Cake Mix – Any boxed chocolate cake mix will do.
- Mini Peanut Butter Cups – Unwrapped and chopped for melty, gooey pockets.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Swirled in for that rich, nutty flavor.
- Butter – Melted and poured over the top to help everything bake evenly.
- Milk or Evaporated Milk – For added moisture and richness.
- Optional Toppings – Crushed peanuts, chocolate chips, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Dump the chocolate cake mix evenly into the dish—no mixing!
- Add a layer of chopped peanut butter cups.
- Drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter across the surface.
- Pour in milk or evaporated milk to moisten the mix.
- Drizzle melted butter over everything.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until the top is crisp and the center is gooey.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
The Magic of Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
This cake is magic in a pan—the kind that fills your kitchen with the scent of warm chocolate and gooey peanut butter. As it bakes, the cake mix absorbs the melted butter and milk, creating a brownie-meets-pudding texture. The peanut butter cups melt into pockets of chocolatey, nutty goodness, making each bite rich, sweet, and slightly salty.
It’s the ultimate lazy dessert with bakery-style results. No mixers, no frosting, no hassle—just pure joy in a single scoop!
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
✨ Use Quality Ingredients – A good chocolate cake mix and real peanut butter cups make all the difference.
✨ Don’t Overmix – Dump cake means no stirring—just layer and bake!
✨ Chop Candy Evenly – So every bite has gooey peanut butter cup goodness.
✨ Add Milk – This keeps the cake moist and prevents dry patches.
✨ Serve Warm – Straight from the oven with a scoop of ice cream = heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
💛 Super Easy – One dish, zero effort—perfect for beginner bakers.
💛 Ultra-Indulgent – Rich chocolate and gooey peanut butter in every bite.
💛 Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for potlucks, birthdays, or casual get-togethers.
💛 Customizable – Add Oreos, pretzels, or even marshmallows for a fun twist.
💛 No Mixer Needed – Just dump, bake, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is best enjoyed warm and fresh. Here are some delicious pairing ideas:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – The cold creaminess is perfect with the hot, gooey cake.
- Whipped Cream – For a light, airy topping.
- Crushed Pretzels or Peanuts – To add crunch and balance the sweetness.
- Hot Fudge Drizzle – When you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Variations on the Classic Dump Cake
Love a twist on a classic? Try these fun ideas:
1. Peanut Butter Banana Dump Cake
Add sliced bananas between layers for extra sweetness and texture.
2. S’mores Peanut Butter Cup Cake
Top with mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers during the last 5 minutes of baking.
3. Oreo Peanut Butter Cake
Crumble Oreos into the mix for a cookies-and-cream vibe.
4. Nutella Swirl
Replace or combine peanut butter with Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds.
- For oven reheating, cover with foil and warm at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.
Can You Freeze It?
- Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat as above.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes! Try using devil’s food, fudge, or even a peanut butter-flavored cake mix for variety.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the layers, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake right before serving for best results.
What can I use instead of peanut butter cups?
You can substitute chopped peanut butter chocolate bars, peanut butter chips, or even Reese’s Pieces.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
While the cake mix and candy add plenty of sweetness, you can try a sugar-free cake mix or reduce the number of peanut butter cups.
Is this safe for people with nut allergies?
No, due to peanut butter and peanut butter cups, it’s not safe for those with nut allergies.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is what dessert dreams are made of—warm, gooey, chocolatey, and peanut buttery in every bite. It’s the perfect sweet treat when you want big flavor with little effort. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy weekend indulgence, this dump cake is always a hit.
📌 Don’t forget to Pin this recipe for later—because once you make it, you’ll want to make it again and again! 😊🍫🥜
