Name: Peanut Butter Chocolate Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 12 ounces evaporated milk (1 can); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup mini peanut butter cups (halved); 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving, optional)

I remember the first time I made this cake; the aroma of chocolate wafting through the house drew my kids into the kitchen like bees to honey. The laughter, the sharing of stories, and the pure joy on their faces as they took that first bite made this recipe an instant family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Dessert
The Recipe
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
What to Serve With This Delightful Dessert
Storage & Leftover Tips

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Dessert

Effortless Preparation: This Peanut Butter Chocolate Dump Cake is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, it’s ready to pop in the oven. You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills, making it accessible for anyone who wants to bake something tasty without the hassle. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a dessert that requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum satisfaction.

Decadent Flavor Combination: The marriage of peanut butter and chocolate is a classic for a reason. The rich, creamy peanut butter cups take this cake to the next level. Each bite offers a balance of sweet chocolate and salty peanut butter that delights the taste buds. This combination is reminiscent of a favorite candy bar, transformed into a warm, comforting cake that feels like a hug in dessert form.

Kid-Friendly: Little ones adore helping with this recipe, especially when it comes to sprinkling the mini peanut butter cups. It’s a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen and spark their interest in cooking and baking. Not only does it provide an opportunity for hands-on learning, but it also creates cherished memories that they’ll carry with them.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also try drizzling it with caramel sauce or adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. The versatility of this cake means it can be dressed up for a dinner party or kept simple for a relaxed family meal.

Minimal Cleanup: As a true “dump” cake, it minimizes cleanup—just one bowl and a baking dish! This means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the delicious results with your loved ones. The simplicity of the cleanup process makes this cake even more appealing, especially for those who may shy away from baking due to the potential mess.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup mini peanut butter cups, halved
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Directions:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Ensure that all the ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. This step helps the ingredients incorporate more easily, leading to a better texture in the final product.
Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and evaporated milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you want to add a twist, try mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor. The vanilla extract adds a subtle depth that complements the chocolate and peanut butter beautifully.
Layer the Cake: Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter evenly over the batter. Sprinkle half of the mini peanut butter cups over the peanut butter layer. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a handful of chopped peanuts for extra crunch. This layering not only adds visual appeal but ensures that each bite has a bit of everything.
Finish the Layers: Spread the remaining cake batter over the peanut butter cups layer. Top with the remaining mini peanut butter cups. Ensure that the batter is evenly spread to avoid uneven baking. The even distribution helps the cake bake uniformly, avoiding any soggy or overly dry spots.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time. The toothpick test ensures that your cake has the perfect texture—moist but not underdone.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. For an added touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. The sea salt accentuates the sweetness of the chocolate and the richness of the peanut butter, creating a delightful contrast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: Varies depending on ingredients

A delicious plate of Peanut Butter Chocolate Dump Cake

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your cake mix and other ingredients smoothly. A good-quality mixing bowl can make the process easier and more enjoyable.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: Provides the perfect size and depth for this cake to bake evenly. Ensure it’s a non-stick or well-greased to prevent sticking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results. This is particularly important in baking, where precision can make all the difference.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Handy for mixing and spreading the batter and peanut butter. A silicone spatula is especially useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Oven Mitts: Always a safety must-have when handling hot bakeware. Protect your hands and prevent kitchen accidents.
Toothpick (for checking doneness): Ensures your cake is baked to perfection without being overdone. This simple tool is indispensable for any baker.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Chocolate Cake Mix: The foundation of the cake, providing a rich, chocolatey base that’s hard to resist. It’s a versatile ingredient, as you can use any brand or type, even experimenting with different flavors. Some might enjoy a dark chocolate mix for a more intense flavor.
Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and moisture, ensuring the cake is perfectly tender. This ingredient helps achieve a slightly denser texture, which pairs well with the gooey peanut butter. If you’re out of evaporated milk, you can substitute with half-and-half for a similar richness.
Unsalted Butter: Enhances the cake’s flavor and contributes to its rich texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels in the cake, balancing the sweetness perfectly. Always opt for high-quality butter for the best taste.
Mini Peanut Butter Cups: These little delights melt into gooey pockets of peanut butter goodness. Their size is perfect, ensuring you get a taste of peanut butter in every bite without overpowering the chocolate. Try different brands or types for a unique twist each time.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds richness and depth, pairing beautifully with the chocolate. If you’re a fan of crunchy textures, try using crunchy peanut butter instead for a delightful contrast. Organic or natural peanut butter can be used for a less sweet, more nutty flavor.

What to Serve With This Delightful Dessert

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Dump Cake is a showstopper on its own, but here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your dessert game:

Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake. It’s a classic pairing that enhances the dessert’s indulgence. Consider a scoop of chocolate or peanut butter ice cream for an extra layer of flavor.
Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping that complements the cake’s richness. For extra flavor, try adding a touch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to your whipped cream. Homemade whipped cream can elevate the dessert to a special occasion treat.
Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness. Strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced bananas work wonderfully to add freshness. The berries not only add aesthetic appeal but also a fresh taste that complements the rich cake.
Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate indulgence, serve with a mug of steaming hot chocolate. This pairing is perfect for chilly nights when you want to cozy up with a comforting treat. You could also try a mocha for an added coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

For more delightful dessert ideas, check out our Easy Chocolate Mousse and Classic Tiramisu recipes.

Storage & Leftover Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers of this irresistible cake (a rare occurrence, I assure you!), storing them is a breeze:

Refrigerate: Place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. To enjoy, simply reheat a slice in the microwave for about 20 seconds. This method keeps the cake moist and flavorful. A quick zap in the microwave brings back the cake’s gooey texture.
Freeze: If you wish to keep it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This is a great way to have a ready-to-eat dessert on hand for unexpected guests or cravings.
Reheat: To bring back the cake’s fresh-from-the-oven warmth, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps retain the cake’s texture and flavor better than microwaving. The oven method is perfect for when you have a bit more time and want that oven-baked taste.

For more storage tips and easy recipes to enjoy on a cozy night in, visit homemaderecipe.blog.

As you can see, this Peanut Butter Chocolate Dump Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into the delicious world of chocolate and peanut butter. Happy baking!

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