If you’re looking for a rich, gooey, and irresistibly chocolatey dessert that requires minimal effort, Chocolate Dump Cake is the answer! This simple yet indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, craving a quick dessert, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth. With no complicated steps or fancy techniques, this cake is ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
What is Chocolate Dump Cake?
A dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make. The name comes from the way it’s prepared—simply dump the ingredients into a baking dish, mix lightly (or not at all), and bake! Unlike traditional cakes that require precise mixing and measuring, a dump cake is delightfully effortless.
For Chocolate Dump Cake, you typically use a chocolate cake mix, pudding mix, milk, butter, and chocolate chips. The result? A warm, gooey, fudgy cake with a texture somewhere between a brownie and a molten lava cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Minimal effort – Just dump the ingredients and bake!
-
Super chocolatey – Perfect for chocolate lovers.
-
Only a few ingredients – No need for complex baking skills.
-
Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or different types of chocolate for variety.
-
Great for gatherings – A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in large batches.
Timing
-
Preparation time: 5 minutes
-
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
-
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic Chocolate Dump Cake, you’ll need:
-
1 box chocolate cake mix
-
1 small box (3.9 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix
-
2 cups milk
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
-
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate)
Optional Add-Ins
-
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
-
1/2 cup caramel sauce for extra richness
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
-
1/2 teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness
How to Make Chocolate Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to slightly thicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
-
Pour the pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish.
-
Evenly sprinkle the chocolate cake mix on top. Do not mix!
-
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it covers most of the surface.
-
Sprinkle chocolate chips and any optional add-ins on top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top looks set but the inside is still slightly gooey. The cake will have a soft, pudding-like texture.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Dump Cake
-
Don’t stir – The magic of a dump cake happens when the layers bake together on their own.
-
Use high-quality chocolate chips for richer flavor.
-
For extra gooeyness, slightly underbake the cake.
-
Want a crispy top? Add a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Peanut Butter Chocolate Dump Cake
Swirl in 1/2 cup of peanut butter before baking for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.
2. Salted Caramel Chocolate Dump Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake before baking and sprinkle sea salt on top after baking.
3. Mocha Chocolate Dump Cake
Replace 1/2 cup of milk with brewed coffee for a deep, rich mocha flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Chocolate Dump Cake
Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free version.
Serving Suggestions
-
Classic: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
-
Fancy: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce and top with whipped cream.
-
Holiday Treat: Add crushed peppermint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Storage and Reheating
-
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
-
Refrigerator: Keeps well for 4-5 days.
-
Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
-
Reheating: Microwave individual servings for 30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make Chocolate Dump Cake in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the cake is set.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! Try devil’s food, German chocolate, or even red velvet for a twist.
What if my cake turns out too dry?
Make sure you’re using enough butter and pudding mix to keep it moist.
Conclusion
Chocolate Dump Cake is the ultimate lazy baker’s dream—no complicated steps, just pure chocolate goodness. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this easy recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, dump them in, and let the oven do the work.