Irresistible Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Chocolatey Dessert

There are desserts that hit the spot, and then there are desserts that melt into your soul. Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is absolutely in the second category. If you’ve never experienced the joy of a warm, chocolatey, peanut-buttery masterpiece straight out of the oven, topped with melty chips and ooey-gooey peanut butter cups, then friend—you’re in for a real treat.

In this article, we’re going all in. We’ll walk through everything you need to know to make your own Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake, plus expert tips, variations, storage ideas, and answers to your most asked questions. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just yourself and a fork, this dump cake recipe is pure bliss.

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What Is a Dump Cake, Anyway?

Before we dig into the peanut butter cup version, let’s pause for a quick explanation. Dump cakes are known for their simplicity. No fancy mixers or complicated steps—just dump, bake, and devour. Most dump cakes start with a boxed cake mix, some type of wet ingredient like fruit filling or pudding, and a generous helping of butter. Then you pile on your toppings, and magic happens in the oven.

So, what makes this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake different? It’s a rich and indulgent twist that swaps fruit for chocolate pudding, adds peanut butter swirls, and loads up on mini peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. It’s like all your dessert dreams decided to move in together.

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Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Here’s the thing: some desserts are just okay. This one is legendary. Here’s why:

• Ridiculously easy – No mixer, no bowls of flour, just simple layering.
• Gooey, melty texture – Like a cross between a brownie, lava cake, and cookie dough.
• Chocolate + peanut butter – Enough said.
• Crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves it, from kids to adults.
• Versatile – Serve warm with ice cream or cold straight from the fridge (we won’t judge).

This peanut butter cup dump cake has quickly become one of the most requested desserts in households across the country—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break it down. Here’s what goes into your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix – Use your favorite brand.
• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix – Not cooked pudding, just the mix.
• 2 cups milk – Whole milk gives the richest flavor.
• 1/2 cup peanut butter – Smooth is classic, but chunky works if you want extra texture.
• 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped – These melt into gooey little pockets of joy.
• 1/2 cup melted butter – Essential for the perfect golden top.
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips – Semi-sweet balances the sweetness.

Optional: Serve it up with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that over-the-top finish.

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Step-by-Step Directions

Time to get baking! Here’s exactly how to make the ultimate peanut butter cup dump cake:

1. Preheat and prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coating of butter.

2. Make the pudding base

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your instant chocolate pudding mix with the milk until it’s smooth and slightly thickened. This becomes the gooey, chocolatey foundation of your cake.

Pro tip: Don’t let it sit too long—once mixed, pour it straight into the prepared baking dish.

3. Add the dry cake mix

Now comes the magic of the “dump.” Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the pudding. Don’t stir it in—just let it sit on top.

4. Pour on the butter

Drizzle your melted butter across the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible for that golden crust.

5. Drop dollops of peanut butter

Use a spoon to drop little dollops of peanut butter across the top. As it bakes, it will melt and swirl into the chocolate layers.

6. Add the candy and chips

Scatter your chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips over the entire dish. Press some slightly into the top for extra gooeyness.

7. Bake until bubbly

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top looks set but still slightly soft in the center. The edges will be bubbling, and your kitchen will smell heavenly.

8. Cool (if you can wait!)

Let the cake cool slightly before serving—it helps it firm up just a little, making it easier to scoop. Or go all in and eat it warm and messy with a spoon.

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Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Want your dessert to be even more irresistible? Try these pro tips:

• Use room temperature milk for the pudding mix so it combines easily.
• Don’t overbake – you want that gooey center!
• Let it rest for 10–15 minutes after baking before scooping for a cleaner serving.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top while warm—thank us later.
• Use high-quality chocolate chips and peanut butter cups for the best flavor.

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Variations to Try

The beauty of this peanut butter cup dump cake is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ways to change things up:

• Add crushed pretzels on top for a salty crunch.
• Swap peanut butter cups for mini Snickers or Reese’s Pieces.
• Use white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Add a swirl of Nutella along with the peanut butter.
• Want it extra gooey? Add caramel sauce to the base layer before the cake mix.

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Serving Suggestions

This rich cake is perfect warm out of the oven, but you can also refrigerate it and enjoy it cold. Here are a few pairing ideas:

• Vanilla bean ice cream
• Whipped cream with chopped peanuts
• Drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter sauce
• Coffee or cold milk on the side

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Storing & Reheating Your Dump Cake

This peanut butter cup dump cake stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep the leftovers just as delicious:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds per serving or pop the dish back in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

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Why This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Is a Must-Try Dessert

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and this cake delivers it in layers. Every bite is packed with melty bits of candy, rich chocolate flavor, and that signature creamy swirl. It’s not just a dessert—it’s an experience.

The simplicity makes it perfect for beginners, but the flavor is rich enough for any celebration. Whether you’re prepping it for a bake sale, a weekend get-together, or a solo Netflix night, this recipe is going to hit every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make peanut butter cup dump cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it the night before, store it in the fridge, and warm it up before serving.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely. Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and a little bite.

Can I substitute the cake mix flavor?

Sure! Chocolate fudge, devil’s food, or even yellow cake mix works well.

Do I have to use instant pudding mix?

Yes—instant is key for this recipe. Cook-and-serve pudding won’t set correctly in the bake.

How do I keep the cake from being too dry?

Be sure not to overbake it, and drizzle the butter evenly to keep everything moist.

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Conclusion: A Sweet Classic You’ll Make Again and Again

There’s a reason this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is becoming a family favorite everywhere—it’s easy, indulgent, and loaded with all the good stuff. With its simple prep and show-stopping flavor, this dessert checks every box: gooey, chocolatey, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. Plus, it’s perfect for every occasion, from a casual weeknight to a festive celebration.

Whether you’re already a fan of dump cakes or trying them for the first time, this recipe is bound to become a repeat favorite. So grab that cake mix, swirl in some peanut butter love, and get ready to create a dessert everyone will be talking about.

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