Chocolate Dump Cake
Chocolate Dump Cake is a rich, gooey, no-fuss dessert made by layering ingredients straight into the baking dish—no mixing required. It’s like a molten chocolate brownie-meets-pudding that’s perfect for busy days or feeding a crowd.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, sliced into pats
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, whipped cream, ice cream
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour dry chocolate cake mix evenly into the dish. Do not stir.
- Sprinkle instant pudding mix evenly over the cake mix.
- Pour milk over the dry ingredients evenly.
- Add vanilla extract if using. Scatter chocolate chips over the top.
- Place pats of butter evenly across the surface.
- Optionally, add nuts or marshmallows before baking.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until top is set and bubbling.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
- Do not stir the layers—this creates the gooey texture.
- Use dark chocolate chips for an even richer flavor.
- Add toppings before or after baking based on texture preference.
- Best served warm for the full molten effect.
- Microwaves and ovens may vary—check for bubbling and set top as doneness indicators.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is as easy as it gets—no need to mix, whisk, or beat anything. Just “dump” the ingredients into the pan and bake. It’s great for feeding a crowd, satisfying a last-minute sweet craving, or introducing kids to baking. The result is a fudgy, molten cake that tastes like a cross between brownies and chocolate pudding.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chocolate cake mix
instant chocolate pudding mix
milk
semi-sweet chocolate chips
butter (sliced into pats)
vanilla extract
optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or ice cream
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the dry chocolate cake mix evenly into the dish—do not stir.
- Sprinkle the instant pudding mix over the cake mix.
- Pour the milk evenly over the dry ingredients.
- Add vanilla extract if using, and scatter the chocolate chips over the top.
- Place slices of butter evenly across the surface.
- Optional: Add any toppings like nuts or marshmallows before baking.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is set and bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 10–12 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Bake time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes
Variations
- Double Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks for extra richness.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add dollops of peanut butter before baking.
- German Chocolate Dump Cake: Add coconut flakes and chopped pecans before baking.
- Mint Chocolate: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract or top with crushed mint candies.
- S’mores Style: Add mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds until warm.
You can also reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Freezing is not recommended due to the pudding-like texture.
FAQs
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert where you layer ingredients in a pan without mixing and bake them into a gooey, cake-like treat.
Can I use homemade cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute with a homemade dry chocolate cake mix if preferred.
Do I have to use pudding mix?
Pudding mix adds moisture and richness, but you can skip it for a more traditional cake texture.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, whole milk is best for richness, but almond, oat, or lactose-free milk also work.
Why don’t I stir the ingredients?
The layers bake into a gooey texture that’s part cake, part pudding. Stirring disrupts the texture.
Can I use other cake mix flavors?
You can! Try devil’s food, German chocolate, or even red velvet for variety.
How do I make it more gooey?
Slightly underbake it or use extra pudding mix and chocolate chips.
Is this cake good for a crowd?
Yes, it’s great for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings since it’s easy and feeds many.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or until the center is set but soft.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm, straight from the oven, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Chocolate Dump Cake is the perfect go-to dessert for when you want something rich, chocolatey, and incredibly easy. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a must-have recipe for every baker’s collection. Serve it warm and watch it disappear—no one will believe how easy it was to make.
