Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake: The Best 5-Ingredient Dessert

Introduction

Imagine a dessert so rich, gooey, and utterly indulgent that it tastes like a cross between a molten peanut butter cup and a fudgy brownie—yet requires zero baking skills. That’s the magic of Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake! This crowd-pleasing treat is the ultimate “cheat” dessert, combining pantry staples with candy favorites for a showstopping result.

The term “dump cake” might not sound glamorous, but it perfectly captures the ease of this recipe: you literally dump layers of ingredients into a dish and let the oven work its magic. Legend has it that dump cakes originated in the 1950s as a clever way to use boxed cake mixes, and this peanut butter-chocolate version is the decadent upgrade we all deserve.

Whether you’re hosting a last-minute potluck, craving a midnight snack, or need a guaranteed kid-friendly dessert, this recipe delivers. It’s:
✅ 5-minute prep (no mixer, no fuss!)
✅ Made with 6 simple ingredients
✅ Customizable with add-ins like pretzels or caramel
✅ Freezer-friendly for make-ahead ease

Ready to bake the dessert that’ll have everyone begging for the recipe? Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

1. It’s Irresistibly Decadent (Yet Foolproof)

This cake is a textural dream: a gooey peanut butter base, a layer of melty sweetened condensed milk, and a crispy chocolate cake mix topping studded with peanut butter cups. The contrast between the fudgy center and the slightly crunchy surface makes every bite addictive.

2. Budget-Friendly & Pantry-Staple Friendly

Skip the bakery markup! A box of cake mix and a jar of peanut butter cost a fraction of a store-bought dessert. Plus, you likely already have these ingredients on hand. (Pro tip: Stock up on peanut butter cups after Halloween for year-round baking!)

3. Endless Customization Options

Make it your own with:

• Crunchy add-ins: Chopped peanuts, pretzels, or toffee bits
• Swirls: Caramel sauce or marshmallow fluff
• Dietary tweaks: Use gluten-free cake mix (learn more about gluten-free baking here) or almond butter for a nutty twist

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Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Base Layers

• 1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix – Devil’s food or dark chocolate work best
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – Avoid natural PB (it separates)
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – The secret to gooey richness

Mix-Ins & Toppings

• 1½ cups chopped peanut butter cups (about 15 regular cups), divided
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips

Optional for Serving

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Drizzle of chocolate syrup

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan & Peanut Butter Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Spread peanut butter evenly across the bottom using a spatula (aim for ¼-inch thickness).

Step 2: Layer the Goodness

1. Sprinkle ¾ cup chopped peanut butter cups over the peanut butter.
2. Pour sweetened condensed milk slowly to cover the candy layer.
3. Evenly sprinkle dry cake mix over the milk (do not stir—this creates the magic layers!).

Step 3: Butter, Chocolate, and Bake

1. Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, trying to moisten most of the powder.
2. Top with chocolate chips and remaining ¾ cup peanut butter cups.
3. Bake for 35–40 minutes until bubbly at the edges and the top looks crackly.

Step 4: Serve Like a Pro

1. Cool for 10–15 minutes (it firms up slightly).
2. Scoop warm into bowls and top with ice cream or whipped cream.

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What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Pairing Ideas:

• Coffee or milk – Cuts the sweetness perfectly
• Fresh berries – Strawberries or raspberries add brightness
• Salted caramel sauce – Enhances the peanut butter (more dessert pairings here)

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Top Tips for Perfecting Your Dump Cake

1. Avoid a Dry Top

• Ensure the butter evenly coats the cake mix. If spots look powdery, gently spread with a knife.

2. Gooey vs. Firm Texture

• For a fudgier center, bake for 30–35 minutes.
• Prefer crispy edges? Bake 40–45 minutes.

3. Storage Hacks

• Room temp: Cover with foil for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Slice and wrap portions in plastic for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave (20-second intervals).

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Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerating:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Reheating:

• Microwave: 30 seconds for a molten texture.
• Oven: 10 minutes at 300°F to revive crispiness.

Freezing:

• Cut cooled cake into squares, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for lazy bakers and chocolate-peanut butter addicts alike. With its minimal effort, maximal flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s destined to become your go-to treat.

Hungry for more? Try these twists next time:

• Cookies-and-cream version with Oreos and white chocolate chips
• S’mores-inspired with graham cracker crumbs and marshmallows

Now, grab that spoon and dig in—you’ve earned it! 🍫🥄