Imagine warm, gooey peanut butter cups melting into layers of rich chocolate cake, finished with a golden crust of sweet perfection. That’s the magic of Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. This dessert combines two irresistible favorites — chocolate and peanut butter — into one incredibly easy treat. With just a handful of ingredients and almost no prep work, you can create a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Here’s a fun fact: dump cakes earned their name from the simple method of “dumping” ingredients into a baking dish. No mixing, no complicated techniques — just dump, bake, and enjoy. That simplicity is what makes this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake such a star. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or whenever your sweet tooth strikes.
Compared to our popular Chocolate Donuts Recipe, which requires a bit more prep, this cake practically makes itself. If you love recipes that deliver big flavor without the fuss, you’re in for a treat. Get ready to wow your family, impress your friends, and satisfy every chocolate-peanut-butter craving with this easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
What is Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?
So, what exactly is Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake? It’s basically a cake that laughs in the face of complicated baking! Instead of whisking, folding, and sifting, you simply layer ingredients — boxed cake mix, butter, and chopped peanut butter cups — into a baking dish. Pop it in the oven, and out comes pure joy. Why is it called a dump cake? Because everything gets dumped together — no fancy steps, no stress. The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? Well, this dessert might just win over the whole neighborhood. Ready to make your own delicious shortcut to happiness? Let’s bake it up!
Want more dessert inspiration? Check out our Black Forest Berry Cheesecake and Yellow Velvet Cake Recipe for another irresistible treat!
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Here are three reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this dessert:
- Rich, gooey peanut butter chocolate bliss – The combination of creamy peanut butter cups with moist chocolate cake is the ultimate indulgence. Each bite is a harmony of textures and flavors that feels both nostalgic and exciting.
- Budget-friendly baking at its best – Skip the bakery prices and make this impressive dessert at home. With minimal ingredients, you can create a big-batch dessert perfect for sharing — or not sharing, we won’t judge!
- Customizable toppings and textures – Want a crunchy twist? Sprinkle chopped peanuts or drizzle with caramel. Prefer more chocolate? Add chocolate chips on top before baking. It’s easy to adapt and make it your own.
If you liked our One-Pot Creamy Cajun Meatball Pasta for its simplicity, you’ll love how this cake brings the same level of easy comfort to dessert. Now it’s your turn — grab those peanut butter cups and get baking!
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Quick Overview
This dessert is as easy as it gets: layer, bake, and serve. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to bake. You’ll be rewarded with a warm, gooey, chocolate-peanut-butter masterpiece that disappears fast at any gathering.
Key Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups chopped peanut butter cups (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk into the dish.
- Sprinkle the chocolate cake mix evenly over the milk — no stirring needed.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top to moisten the cake mix.
- Scatter the chopped peanut butter cups (and any extras, like chocolate chips) over the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
What to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake With
Pair this indulgent dessert with:
- A scoop of vanilla or peanut butter ice cream
- A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity balance
- A cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for the perfect finish
Top Tips for Perfecting Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
- Don’t overbake: You want gooey pockets of chocolate and peanut butter.
- Use quality peanut butter cups: The better the candy, the better the flavor.
- Make it nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts or pretzels for added crunch.
- Serve warm: The flavors shine when the cake is fresh from the oven.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a low oven until heated through.
FAQ About Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! Try yellow or vanilla cake mix for a lighter base.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it, let it cool, and store it covered. Reheat before serving.
Can I add other candies?
Of course! Chopped Snickers, Reese’s Pieces, or even Oreos work wonderfully.
Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is everything you want in a dessert: rich, easy, and utterly satisfying. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect way to treat yourself and the people you love. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something sweet, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Ready to bake your new favorite dessert? Grab those ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the chocolate-peanut-butter magic begin!