Chocolate Dump Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Dump Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The cake has a rich, fudgy texture with pockets of gooey chocolate and a slight crunch from the melted chocolate chips. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s an ideal recipe for busy days when you want something homemade but don’t have much time to spare.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted but not hot (1 stick or 113 grams)

• 1 box chocolate cake mix

• 5.1 ounces instant chocolate pudding

• 2 ½ cups whole milk

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick spray.

2. Evenly sprinkle the chocolate cake mix across the dish.

3. Sprinkle the instant chocolate pudding mix evenly over the cake mix.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the milk with the melted butter. Be sure the butter isn’t hot to avoid curdling the milk.

5. Pour the milk and butter mixture over the cake and pudding mixes.

6. Using a whisk, lightly incorporate the ingredients together. You don’t need to fully mix them, but a slight blending will help it bake more evenly.

7. Sprinkle the entire bag of chocolate chips over the top of the mixture.

8. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is set and the top is slightly crispy.

9. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 45 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use different cake mixes: While chocolate cake mix is traditional, you could experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even red velvet for a unique twist.

• Add nuts: If you like a bit of crunch in your cake, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the chocolate chips for extra texture.

• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and dairy-free butter for a vegan version.

• Top with whipped cream: For an even more indulgent treat, serve this cake with whipped cream instead of or in addition to ice cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chocolate dump cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh for a bit longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the chocolate dump cake is done?

The cake should be set and have a slightly crispy top. You can also check by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out mostly clean (with a few moist crumbs), it’s done.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix. Vanilla, red velvet, or even chocolate fudge could all work well in this recipe.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake and store it in the fridge unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed.

How do I serve the chocolate dump cake?

Serve it warm, ideally with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect balance of textures.

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, almond milk or any plant-based milk can be substituted for the whole milk in this recipe.

Is there a way to make this dessert healthier?

You could use a sugar-free cake mix and pudding mix, and swap the butter for a healthier oil or plant-based butter, but keep in mind that the cake may lose some of its richness.

How do I make the cake extra fudgy?

If you prefer a more fudgy texture, reduce the cooking time by a few minutes and avoid stirring the batter too much before baking.

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate chips would add a deeper chocolate flavor. Feel free to use them if you like a more intense chocolate taste.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains regular cake mix. To make it gluten-free, you could substitute a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this cake can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Chocolate Dump Cake is the epitome of a quick, delicious, and indulgent dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, gooey chocolate treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re entertaining guests or satisfying a late-night craving, this cake is the perfect option for any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!