If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your childhood, this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is exactly what your kitchen needs. The moment you gather the simple ingredients—chocolate cake mix, creamy peanut butter, and those glorious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups—you know you’re in for something special. This cake is the kind of treat that brings everyone together: whether you’re sneaking a slice after dinner or serving it up at a weekend potluck, it never fails to earn rave reviews. The ease of “dumping” everything into one pan means less time fussing over details and more time enjoying the sweet anticipation as it bakes to gooey perfection.
Once you crack into that first forkful, you’ll notice the tender chocolate crumb giving way to pockets of molten peanut butter and chocolate chips—each bite a decadent surprise. The final drizzle of warm peanut butter transforms the top into a glossy, irresistible canvas that’s half candy bar, half cake dream. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone who loves the classic combo of chocolate and peanut butter but doesn’t want to spend hours baking from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a new twist or a beginner seeking maximum flavor with minimal effort, this recipe has you covered. Get ready to fall head over heels for a dessert that truly feels like home.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PEANUT BUTTER CUP DUMP CAKE
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s break down the heart and soul of this recipe: the ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and that signature gooey finish. From the sturdy base of cake mix to the final dusting of powdered sugar, these components come together to make magic happen in one simple baking dish.
- Chocolate Cake Mix
This boxed mix provides the foundation for our dump cake, offering a consistent texture and deep cocoa flavor. It’s the time-saving hero that ensures every batch turns out moist and rich, without having to sift through multiple pantry staples.
- Creamy Peanut Butter
Incorporated right into the batter, this smooth peanut butter infuses the entire cake with its nutty sweetness. It balances the chocolate base and adds luscious creaminess, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.
- Milk
Adding milk helps hydrate the cake mix while contributing to a tender crumb. It keeps the batter silky enough to spread easily and prevents the cake from drying out during its 40-minute bake.
- Eggs
Eggs act as the structural backbone, binding ingredients together and creating lift. They turn the mixture from a loose batter into a stable cake that still retains its gooey character.
- Vegetable Oil
A neutral oil provides moisture and tenderness, complementing the peanut butter without competing with its flavor. It’s crucial for achieving that perfect, slightly dense dump cake texture.
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (Chopped)
These chopped candies fold into the top layer to provide pockets of custardy peanut butter and milk chocolate. As they bake, they soften and meld with the cake, delivering bursts of nostalgia.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Scattered alongside the chopped cups, these chips add melty chocolate bits throughout the cake’s surface. They create a beautiful contrast against the peanut butter drizzle.
- Creamy Peanut Butter (Drizzle)
Melted and drizzled on top, this extra peanut butter layer seals in moisture and heightens the peanut-chocolate combo. It forms a glossy, sweet crown that slightly hardens as it cools.
- Powdered Sugar
An optional finishing touch, powdered sugar lends a delicate sweetness and a picture-perfect dusting. It’s ideal for those who want a hint of extra sweetness and a refined presentation.
HOW TO MAKE PEANUT BUTTER CUP DUMP CAKE
Every great bake starts with a plan—and this one couldn’t be simpler. In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll go from pantry raid to dessert glory. Below is our detailed guide to transform those ingredients into a showstopping cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure your oven rack is centered for even heating. A correctly preheated oven is crucial for setting the edges of the cake while keeping the center soft.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, creamy peanut butter, milk, eggs, and vegetable oil.
Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. Mixing until the batter is well combined and smooth guarantees a uniform texture and even rise.
3. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Grease the dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Take time to smooth out the surface so your toppings layer beautifully.
4. Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter.
Distribute them in a single layer for even melting and chocolate-peanut butter pockets throughout the cake’s surface.
5. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
This step sets the cake’s structure. Keep an eye on the edges—they should pull away slightly from the pan when done.
6. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan.
Letting it rest for about 10 minutes makes it easier to drizzle and slice, while still warm enough for melting that final peanut butter layer.
7. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt creamy peanut butter in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
This gentle melting method prevents scorching, ensuring a glossy, pourable consistency perfect for drizzling.
8. Drizzle the melted peanut butter over the top of the cake. Let it set for a few minutes to slightly harden.
Use a spoon or a small piping bag for more precise lines. The setting time creates a delightful contrast in texture.
9. If desired, sift powdered sugar over the cake before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
A light dusting not only adds flavor but also gives your dessert that picture-perfect finish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PEANUT BUTTER CUP DUMP CAKE
When it comes to presenting and enjoying this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, you have a world of delicious options. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy night in or impressing guests at a gathering, the right accompaniments can elevate every decadent bite. From the first forkful, you’ll notice the cake’s warm, fudgy center contrasting beautifully with its crisp edges. That final drizzle of peanut butter adds a silky finish that practically begs for a luscious complement. Below are a few of my favorite ways to serve this cake and make each slice unforgettable.
- Top with Vanilla Ice Cream
Serving a scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream alongside a warm cake slice creates that heavenly hot-and-cold sensation. The smooth sweetness of the ice cream cuts through the rich chocolate and peanut butter, balancing every mouthful.
- Add a Salted Caramel Sauce Drizzle
Warmed caramel sauce adds a layer of salty-sweet complexity. Drizzle it over both the cake and any ice cream you serve on the side for indulgent flavor contrast.
- Garnish with Fresh Berries
Brighten each plate with a handful of raspberries or strawberries. The fruity tartness highlights the cake’s sweetness and brings a pop of color that makes your dessert look as good as it tastes.
- Serve with Whipped Cream and Chopped Peanuts
A dollop of airy whipped cream offers a light counterpart to the dense cake, while a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts adds crunch and a touch of saltiness for texture and flavor depth.
HOW TO STORE PEANUT BUTTER CUP DUMP CAKE
One of the best parts about this dump cake is its make-ahead flexibility. Whether you’re prepping for a party or simply want to enjoy leftovers, proper storage keeps your cake tasting fresh and delightful. Since the cake is moist and studded with chocolate and peanut butter, it benefits from thoughtful handling to maintain its signature textures. Below are some tried-and-true methods to store and preserve this heavenly dessert, ensuring it stays as good on day two or three as it is right out of the oven.
- Room Temperature Storage
Once the cake has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. This method preserves the cake’s soft crumb without over-drying.
- Refrigeration
If you live in a warm climate or prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the cooled cake in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days. Remove it about 30 minutes before serving to bring it back to room temperature, allowing flavors to shine.
- Freezing Individual Slices
For longer storage, cut the cake into single servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat gently in the microwave.
- Reviving Leftovers
To refresh a slice, warm it in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven (300°F/150°C) for 5–7 minutes. The heat brings back the gooey center and softens the peanut butter drizzle, making it taste freshly baked.
CONCLUSION
From the moment you gather those pantry staples to that very first decadent bite, this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a celebration of all things chocolate and peanut butter. We’ve covered everything you need—from the role of each key ingredient to step-by-step instructions that guide you through mixing, baking, and that final irresistible drizzle. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: no complicated techniques, no multiple bowls, just one pan brimming with flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet pick-me-up, this cake delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. Don’t forget that you can easily print this article or save it for later reference—having it on hand means you’re always ready to whip up an indulgent treat. And when you scroll down, you’ll find a handy FAQ to address any questions that pop up while you bake.
I hope this guide inspires you to give the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake a try in your own kitchen. If you decide to take it for a spin, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add extra chopped peanuts for crunch, or maybe serve it with a scoop of salted caramel gelato? Feel free to leave comments, ask questions, or share any tweaks and tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback not only helps fellow home bakers but also adds to the joyful conversation around one of the easiest—and most delicious—desserts you’ll ever make. Enjoy every luscious bite!
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Description
This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake features a moist chocolate base loaded with peanut butter cups, drizzled with creamy peanut butter. It's the ultimate dessert for any chocolate and peanut butter lover!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, milk, eggs, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is well combined and smooth.
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Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Sprinkle the chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter.
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Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
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Drizzle the melted peanut butter over the top of the cake. Let it set for a few minutes to slightly harden.
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If desired, sift 1/3 cup of powdered sugar over the cake before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Note
- For extra crunch, add some chopped peanuts on top before baking.
- This cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture if preferred.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate candy bars for a personalized twist.
