This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a rich, gooey, chocolatey dream layered with creamy peanut butter, melty chocolate chips, and tons of chopped peanut butter cups. It’s the kind of dessert I make when I’m craving something indulgent without the fuss of multiple steps. With a base of chocolate cake and a smooth ganache topping, it’s the ultimate sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortless this dump cake is to make—no fancy techniques or equipment needed. Everything goes into one pan, and the result is a layered, molten dessert that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing. The combo of chocolate and peanut butter never disappoints, and the added touch of ganache on top takes it to the next level. Whether I serve it warm or chilled, it’s always a hit.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 box chocolate fudge cake mix

• 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix

• 1 ½ cups milk

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 ½ cups chopped mini peanut butter cups (plus more for topping)

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for ganache)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, I mix together the cake mix, instant pudding mix, and milk until smooth, then pour the batter into the prepared pan.

3. I drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and gently swirl it through the batter with a knife or skewer. Then I sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped peanut butter cups over everything.

4. I bake the cake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set. While it’s still warm, I poke holes all over the top and drizzle the sweetened condensed milk to soak in.

5. To make the ganache, I heat the cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the dark chocolate chips and stir until smooth.

6. Once the cake cools slightly, I pour the ganache evenly over the top, then finish it off with more chopped peanut butter cups. I let it chill for 30 minutes or serve it warm.

Servings And Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 35 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 12

Variations

I sometimes change things up depending on what I have on hand. I’ve swapped the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate for a fun twist, or used crunchy peanut butter for extra texture. To make it even richer, I’ve added a layer of chopped peanuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

When I have leftovers, I cover the cake tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If I want to serve it warm again, I simply microwave individual portions for 20–30 seconds until soft and gooey. It’s just as good cold, especially if I’m in the mood for something more like a fudgy brownie.

FAQs

1. What Is A Dump Cake?

A dump cake is a super easy dessert where I “dump” ingredients into a baking pan without much mixing or layering. It’s ideal when I want a quick and delicious treat with minimal prep.

2. Can I Use A Different Cake Mix?

Yes, I’ve used devil’s food or even brownie mix instead of chocolate fudge cake mix. It still turns out rich and delicious.

3. Do I Need To Use Sweetened Condensed Milk?

I highly recommend it—it adds moisture and sweetness, and helps create that gooey texture. But if I’m looking for a slightly less sweet version, I reduce the amount or use half-and-half instead.

4. Can I Make It Ahead Of Time?

Definitely. I often bake it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I reheat or enjoy it chilled depending on my mood.

5. Can I Freeze This Dump Cake?

Yes, I’ve frozen slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. When I’m ready to enjoy them again, I just thaw in the fridge and warm up slightly in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is everything I want in a no-fuss dessert—chocolatey, peanut buttery, rich, and ridiculously easy. Whether I’m making it for a party or just satisfying my sweet tooth, it never fails to impress. One bite and I’m hooked.