Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Rich, gooey layers of chocolate and peanut butter make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake a must-try dessert for any occasion. This indulgent treat is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet evening at home. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate creates a unique dessert that stands out, making it an instant favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal steps and ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Decadent Flavor: The rich blend of chocolate and peanut butter creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm or cold, with whipped cream or ice cream – it’s delicious any way you choose!
- Crowd-Pleasing: This cake serves 12 people, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
- Quick Cooking Time: From prep to plate in just 50 minutes, you’ll have dessert ready in no time!
Tools and Preparation
To create your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake with ease, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (23×33 cm / 9×13-inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
- Baking Dish: The right-sized dish ensures even baking and makes serving easier.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect texture and flavor.
- Spatula: A spatula helps in spreading layers evenly and scraping down the sides of the bowl.

Ingredients
Rich, gooey chocolate and peanut butter layers blend with candy cups for a decadent dessert everyone loves.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1.5 cups chopped peanut butter cups, plus extra for garnish
– 1 can (400 g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 box (432 g) chocolate cake mix, dry
– 115 g unsalted butter, melted
– 175 g milk chocolate chips
– Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 23×33 cm (9×13-inch) baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
Spread the creamy peanut butter evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter Cups
Sprinkle half of the chopped peanut butter cups evenly over the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the candy layer, ensuring it covers everything well.
Step 5: Sprinkle Chocolate Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the top. Do not mix; let the layers stay distinct.
Step 6: Drizzle Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Add Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle the milk chocolate chips and remaining chopped peanut butter cups evenly across the top.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving warm. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy your delightful Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
This indulgent Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for a light, fluffy contrast to the rich cake.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream that melts into the cake, adding a delightful coolness.
Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce
- For extra decadence, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each serving to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Top with sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the cake.
Crushed Peanut Butter Cups
- Sprinkle extra crushed peanut butter cups on top for an appealing crunch and additional peanut butter flavor.
Nuts for Texture
- Add chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts for added texture and a nutty crunch that complements the cake well.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, keep these tips in mind. These simple adjustments can elevate your dessert experience.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and melted butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and even baking.
- Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before serving helps set the layers and makes it easier to cut.
- Layer wisely: Make sure to evenly distribute each layer, especially the cake mix, so every bite has balanced flavors.
- Check doneness properly: The cake should be bubbly and slightly crisp on top; do not overbake it to maintain its gooey texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different toppings like caramel sauce or chopped nuts for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake. - Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic cookies are always a hit, providing an additional chocolatey treat alongside the dump cake. - Coffee or Espresso
A rich cup of coffee enhances the dessert’s flavors and provides a perfect contrast to its sweetness. - Chilled Milk
A glass of cold milk complements the richness of the cake while providing a refreshing drink option. - Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy alternative that pairs well with chocolate desserts. - Caramel Popcorn
Sweet and crunchy caramel popcorn creates an enjoyable texture contrast that guests will love. - Nutty Granola Bars
Homemade granola bars add wholesome goodness and a satisfying crunch alongside your sweet treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the perfect Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for success. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your baking dish can cause the cake to stick, making it hard to serve. Always use butter or non-stick spray.
- Mixing ingredients incorrectly: Pouring all layers without following the order can lead to uneven textures. Make sure to layer as instructed.
- Overbaking the cake: Baking too long can dry out your dump cake. Keep an eye on it and remove it when bubbly and slightly crisp.
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold peanut butter or condensed milk can affect how they blend together. Allow them to come to room temperature first.
- Neglecting to cool before serving: Serving immediately might result in a gooey mess. Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.
Freezing Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
- Freeze in a tightly wrapped container for up to 3 months.
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Reheating Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake:
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, but it may alter the consistency slightly.
How do I customize my Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or different candy pieces based on your preferences!
What should I serve with this dessert?
This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
How do I know when my dump cake is done?
The top should be bubbly and slightly crisp. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
Final Thoughts
The Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different toppings or mix-ins, making it suitable for everyone’s taste. Don’t hesitate to give this easy recipe a try—your guests will be asking for seconds!
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, look no further than this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. This indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. Its gooey layers of flavor are incredibly easy to prepare, making it an instant favorite among both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few simple steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of delight.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1.5 cups chopped peanut butter cups
- 1 can (400 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 box (432 g) dry chocolate cake mix
- 115 g unsalted butter, melted
- 175 g milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 23×33 cm (9×13-inch) baking dish.
- Spread the creamy peanut butter evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped peanut butter cups over the peanut butter layer.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the candy layer.
- Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly on top without mixing.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much area as possible.
- Add remaining chopped peanut butter cups and sprinkle milk chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and slightly crisp around the edges.
- Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 275mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
