Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

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This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is what dessert dreams are made of. Imagine a gooey, chocolatey base loaded with warm peanut butter cups, topped with a buttery cake mix layer that turns golden and crisp in the oven. It’s an indulgent, no-fuss treat that comes together with minimal effort and delivers maximum comfort. Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or making it just because your sweet tooth demands it, this dump cake is always a hit.

The combination of melty chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates that iconic flavor duo we all crave. Each bite is filled with surprises—chunks of peanut butter cup, rich chocolate pudding, and a tender cake top. Best part? No mixer or complicated steps needed. Just layer, bake, and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

This dessert is all about simplicity. With just a few store-bought ingredients, you get a decadent treat that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s versatile. Swap in dark chocolate chips or add crushed pretzels for extra texture. The flavor is classic, but the possibilities are endless.

Can I Use Different Types of Peanut Butter Cups?

Absolutely! While classic mini Reese’s are the go-to, you can get creative. Try using dark chocolate peanut butter cups for a richer taste, or opt for white chocolate versions for a fun twist. If you prefer something less sweet, Trader Joe’s dark peanut butter cups are a great alternative. Just chop them roughly so they melt evenly into the cake.

Ingredients for the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

The magic of this dump cake is in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings indulgent flavor and irresistible texture, making it an easy dessert you’ll come back to again and again.

• Chocolate pudding: This forms the base and adds deep, gooey richness.
• Milk: Needed to mix with the pudding and give it that silky consistency.
• Peanut butter cups: The star ingredient. Melty, peanut buttery, and utterly delicious.
• Chocolate cake mix: Provides the classic crumbly cake top with a chocolate boost.
• Butter: Melted and drizzled on top to help the cake mix bake into a crisp, golden topping.

How To Make the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

Whisk together the chocolate pudding and milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Add the Peanut Butter Cups

Roughly chop the peanut butter cups and scatter them evenly over the pudding layer. Be generous here—this is where all the gooey magic comes from.

Step 3: Layer the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the chocolate cake mix evenly over the top of the peanut butter cups and pudding. Try not to stir—just make sure it’s spread evenly.

Step 4: Drizzle with Butter

Pour the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible. This helps create a crisp, rich top layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest slightly before serving so it sets up just enough to scoop.

How to Serve and Store Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

This recipe feeds about 10 to 12 people, making it perfect for sharing—or for enjoying leftovers all week long. Serve it warm right out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle it with extra melted peanut butter or hot fudge for more drama.

To store, let the cake cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds before enjoying again.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?

Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop next to warm cake creates the perfect hot-and-cold dessert moment.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle it over the top to enhance the richness and add a hint of salt.

Whipped Cream

Lightens up the dessert and adds a creamy touch.

Crushed Pretzels

Sprinkle on top for crunch and a salty contrast to the sweetness.

Hot Fudge

Take the chocolate factor up a notch with a warm, gooey fudge drizzle.

Coffee or Espresso

A strong, slightly bitter drink to balance the sweetness of the cake.

Peanut Butter Drizzle

Because more peanut butter is always a good idea.

Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake speaks to your chocolate-loving soul, you might want to explore these other indulgent options:

• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for rich, chewy layers of sweetness.
• Peanut Butter Smores Sandwich Cookies for a twist on a campfire classic.
• Chocolate Smores Cupcakes with gooey marshmallow centers.
• Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies if you’re craving cinnamon-sugar bliss with creamy layers.
• Lemon Truffles Recipe for something tangy to break up all the chocolate.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with classic peanut butter cups, or did you try a variation? Did you go for a full chocolate overload with hot fudge?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these comforting recipes. And don’t be shy if you have questions!

Explore beautifully curated dessert inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next sweet favorite.

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