Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake has been my go-to for effortless indulgence, especially when I need a dessert that tastes like pure magic without much fuss. I remember the first time I made this easy peanut butter cup dump cake; the sweet, nutty aroma filled my kitchen, promising a rich, chocolatey reward. Layering melted peanut butter, chocolate chips, and peanut butter cups, then topping it all with a simple cake mix and butter, felt almost too easy. It’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone ask for the recipe. If you’re wondering how to make peanut butter cup dump cake that’s incredibly delicious and requires minimal effort, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
This is why this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a winner:
- Unbeatable Flavor: It’s a dreamy combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter that’s pure comfort food.
- Lightning-Fast Prep: You can whip up this quick peanut butter cup dessert in about 10 minutes flat, perfect for last-minute cravings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This chocolate peanut butter cup dessert is always a hit at parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and a simple cake mix, making it an affordable indulgence.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this gooey, decadent treat.
- Effortless Execution: Minimal mixing and no fancy techniques needed, truly an easy dessert.
- Versatile: It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of ice cream.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Gathering the peanut butter cup dump cake ingredients is the easiest part of this recipe, and I love how simple they are! You’ll need a few key players to create this magic. The melted peanut butter forms a luscious base, while the chocolate chips and halved mini peanut butter cups are the stars of the show, melting into gooey pockets of flavor. The dry chocolate cake mix is what makes this a true dump cake – no mixing required! And finally, the sliced butter on top creates that perfect golden crust as it bakes.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix – the foundation for our delicious dump cake
- 1 cup peanut butter, melted – for that irresistible peanut butter layer
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips – adding pockets of melty chocolate
- 1 bag (12 oz) mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped and halved – the essential peanut butter cup goodness
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, sliced – creates a lovely golden topping
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Creating this simple peanut butter cup dump cake is a joy because it’s so straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how easily it comes together, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps ensure your dessert doesn’t stick.
- Step 2: Pour the 1 cup peanut butter, melted evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates the rich, gooey base for our dessert.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the 1 cup milk chocolate chips and the halved 1 bag (12 oz) mini peanut butter cups over the peanut butter layer. These little pockets of chocolate and peanut butter will melt into a dreamy swirl as it bakes.
- Step 4: Evenly pour the contents of the dry 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix over the top, spreading it out gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Try not to mix it into the layers below; we want distinct layers.
- Step 5: Distribute the slices of the 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter across the entire surface of the cake mix. This butter will melt and create a slightly crisp, golden topping.
- Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown, and the edges are crisp. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely divine.
- Step 7: Let this decadent melted peanut butter cup dessert cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly. Enjoy warm on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
I’ve made this dessert countless times, and these tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for a truly spectacular treat!
- Quality Peanut Butter: Use a good quality, creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and melt. Natural peanut butter can sometimes separate, so a standard creamy one works best here.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time. You want the top to be golden brown and bubbly, not dry and crumbly.
- Layering is Key: Resist the urge to mix the layers! The distinct layers are part of what makes this dump cake so special.
- Mini Cups are Best: Halving the mini peanut butter cups ensures they melt evenly and distribute their deliciousness throughout every bite.
What’s the secret to perfect Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?
The secret to a perfect Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake lies in the layering and quality ingredients. Using creamy peanut butter for the base and properly halving the mini peanut butter cups ensures even melting and distribution of that iconic flavor. It’s truly the best peanut butter cup dump recipe because it focuses on these simple but crucial details.
Can I make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake ahead of time?
You can assemble this dump cake up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. However, it’s not a no-bake dessert, so it still requires baking. If you’re looking for no-bake options, consider making no bake peanut butter cup bars instead, which are equally delicious.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?
A common mistake is over-mixing the cake mix with the layers below, which can lead to a dense texture. Also, avoid under-baking; ensure the top is golden and bubbly. Experimenting with different peanut butter cup dump cake variations, like adding a swirl of Reese’s Pieces, can be fun but stick to the basic layering for the classic version.
Best Ways to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
This decadent dessert is incredibly versatile, and I love finding new ways to enjoy it! Serving it warm is key to experiencing the full gooey, melty magic. For a classic pairing, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is absolute perfection. The cool, smooth ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, rich dump cake. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate or peanut butter takes it to the next level. For a more portable treat, think of it like upscale peanut butter cup dessert bars – just let it cool completely, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
When you’re enjoying this delightful treat, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. This recipe is rich and satisfying, making it a true indulgence.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal (estimated)
- Fat: High
- Saturated Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Low
- Sugar: High
- Sodium: Moderate
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Properly storing your delicious homemade peanut butter cup dump is key to enjoying it later. First, always let the dump cake cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation, which can make the dessert soggy. Once cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of this delightful peanut butter cup dessert. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, place a slice in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat larger portions in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
What is a peanut butter cup dump cake?
A peanut butter cup dump cake is a wonderfully simple dessert where you “dump” ingredients into a baking dish without much mixing. It typically involves layers of chocolate, peanut butter cups, and a dry cake mix, topped with butter and baked until gooey and delicious. It’s a shortcut to a decadent treat that tastes like a lot more effort went into it.
Can I make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake into a fudge recipe?
While this dump cake is incredibly rich and fudgy in texture, it’s not precisely a peanut butter cup fudge recipe. Fudge typically involves cooking sugar, butter, and milk to a specific temperature and then adding flavorings. This dump cake relies on the melting of ingredients during baking for its gooeyness, rather than a sugar-cooking process. However, the resulting texture is wonderfully dense and fudgy!
What other peanut butter cup dessert flavors can I try?
Beyond this amazing dump cake, there are so many ways to enjoy the chocolate and peanut butter combo! You could try making no bake peanut butter cup bars, which are often made with crushed cookies and peanut butter. Another idea is a peanut butter brownie dump, where you’d use a brownie mix instead of cake mix, or a peanut butter cup cookie dump, using a cookie mix. The possibilities for this classic flavor pairing are endless!
How do I get the best peanut butter cup flavor in my dump cake?
To maximize that peanut butter flavor, make sure to use a good quality, creamy peanut butter for the base layer. Also, don’t skimp on the mini peanut butter cups; halving them helps them melt and distribute their flavor more evenly throughout the dessert. For an extra kick, consider swirling a bit more peanut butter into the cake mix layer before baking.
Variations of Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to tweak this beloved dessert! I love experimenting to find new favorite flavor combinations. For a richer, fudgier experience, try a peanut butter brownie dump by swapping the chocolate cake mix for your favorite brownie mix. The result is an intensely chocolatey base with pockets of peanut butter goodness. If you’re craving a different texture, consider a peanut butter cup cookie dump, using a chocolate chip cookie mix as the topping for a chewy, delightful crust. You could also try a blondie mix for a vanilla-based version. For a dairy-free or vegan twist, simply use dairy-free chocolate chips, vegan butter, and a cake mix that fits your dietary needs. Don’t forget to experiment with different types of peanut butter cups too!
Print
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake: Amazing 10-Minute Treat
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that layers the classic combo of chocolate and peanut butter into a gooey, satisfying bake. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and effortless.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1 cup peanut butter, melted
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 bag mini peanut butter cups (about 12 oz), unwrapped and halved
- 1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup), sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the melted peanut butter evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips and halved mini peanut butter cups over the peanut butter layer.
- Evenly pour the dry chocolate cake mix over the top, spreading it out without mixing.
- Distribute the slices of butter across the entire surface of the cake mix.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and the edges are crisp.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For an extra peanut butter punch, swirl a few dollops of peanut butter into the cake mix layer before baking.
- This dessert is best served warm but can also be reheated.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal (estimated)
- Sugar: High
- Sodium: Moderate
- Fat: High
- Saturated Fat: High
- Unsaturated Fat: Moderate
- Trans Fat: Minimal
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Low
- Protein: Moderate
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, Peanut butter cup dessert, Easy peanut butter cup dump cake, No bake peanut butter cup bars, Peanut butter cup fudge recipe, Chocolate peanut butter cup dessert, How to make peanut butter cup dump cake, What is a peanut butter cup dump, Peanut butter cup dump cake ingredients, Best peanut butter cup dump recipe, Quick peanut butter cup dessert, Peanut butter cup brownie dump, Peanut butter cup cookie dump, Chewy peanut butter cup bars, Peanut butter cup no bake dessert, Homemade peanut butter cup dump, Peanut butter cup dessert bars, Simple peanut butter cup dump cake, Melted peanut butter cup dessert, Peanut butter cup dump cake variations, Creamy peanut butter cup bars
