Dump cake is one of the easiest and most satisfying desserts you can make. With just a few simple ingredients and no mixing bowls required, it’s the perfect go-to when you want something sweet without the fuss.
Why We Love This Dump Cake Recipe
There’s something uniquely satisfying about baking a dessert that requires little more than “dumping” ingredients into a pan. This particular dump cake recipe works wonders, combining devil’s food cake mix and instant chocolate pudding for a rich chocolate flavor that’s hard to resist. Moreover, with just a few steps involved, including mixing and baking, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
The beauty of this dump cake lies in its versatility. You can easily personalize it to suit your taste, whether you prefer adding nuts for some crunch or top it with your favorite ice cream. Plus, it’s a fantastic dessert for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. The simplicity and taste make it a go-to dessert that you’ll want to share with everyone.
Ingredients for Dump Cake
Creating your dump cake is a breeze, especially with these straightforward ingredients. Below you will find the complete list of what you need to whip up this delectable dessert.
- 1 box Devil’s Food cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 ounces)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 bag milk chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips (11.5 ounces)
Together, these ingredients come together to create a moist, decadent cake that delivers chocolatey goodness in every bite.
How to Make Dump Cake
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dump cake.
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and achieves that perfect texture.
Prepare Your Baking Pan
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking, making it easier to serve later on.
Dump the Cake Mix
Take the box of dry Devil’s Food cake mix and dump it directly into the prepared baking pan.
Add the Pudding Mix
Next, sprinkle the entire package of instant chocolate pudding mix over the cake mix. Use a spatula or whisk to stir the two dry mixes together gently until they are well combined.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the whole milk and melted unsalted butter. Now, it’s time to mix! Combine everything thoroughly, ensuring there are no dry pockets of cake mix left. The batter should be smooth and pourable.
Spread and Sprinkle
Spread the cake batter evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Afterward, generously sprinkle the bag of chocolate chips over the top of the batter, ensuring an even distribution for maximum chocolaty goodness.
Bake in the Oven
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 to 45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow your dump cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time helps it set up slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
How to Serve Dump Cake
The best part about dump cake is how wonderfully it pairs with various toppings. When you’re ready to serve, consider adding a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream or dollops of fluffy whipped cream on top. The contrast between the warm cake and the cool ice cream creates a delightful experience.
If you’re feeling fancy, add some fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, for a pop of color and a touch of brightness. These toppings enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal of your dessert, making it feel even more special.
This decadent treat is perfect for celebrations or simply indulging after a long day. Enjoy it warm, allowing the chocolate to melt slightly from the heat, or let it cool and enjoy it at room temperature. No matter how you choose to serve it, you’ll find that each bite is pure bliss.
Expert Tips: Dump Cake
To ensure your dump cake turns out absolutely perfect, here are some expert tips you might find useful:
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Always opt for high-quality chocolate chips and cake mix to achieve the best flavor. The better the ingredients, the better your cake will taste.
- Mix Thoroughly: Be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly, but do not overmix. The right mix will give you the fluffy texture you desire.
- Add Extras: Don’t be afraid to customize! Try adding nuts, toffee bits, or even chopped fruits into your batter before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven behaves differently, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Remove it as soon as a toothpick comes out clean to avoid overbaking.
- Serve Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve your dump cake warm out of the oven. The warmth enhances the texture and makes it even more comforting.
How to Store Dump Cake
If you happen to have any leftovers (although it’s unlikely), you can easily store your dump cake. Of course, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to keep it:
- Refrigerate: Place any leftover dump cake in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to four days.
- Reheat: To enjoy your dump cake again, reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. You can also pop it back in the oven at 350°F for few minutes to bring back its just-baked warmth.
Variations of Dump Cake
While the classic chocolate dump cake is a real crowd-pleaser, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Fruit Dump Cake: Substitute the cake mix with yellow or white cake mix and add a layer of canned or fresh fruit like peaches or cherries at the bottom before dumping the cake mix.
- Nutty Chocolate: Add chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for a delightful crunch.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before baking for a rich, decadent twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Coconut Bliss: Incorporate sweetened shredded coconut with the chocolate chips to add an exotic flavor boost.
- Peanut Butter Delight: Replace some of the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a sweet and salty combo that’s hard to resist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dump Cake
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a type of dessert that requires you to dump the ingredients into a baking pan without any elaborate mixing or preparation. It’s usually made with cake mix and other sweet components, making it quick and easy to prepare.
Can I use different cake mixes?
Absolutely! While this recipe utilizes Devil’s Food cake mix, you can experiment with various cake mixes like vanilla, lemon, or even spice cake to create unique flavors.
Is there a gluten-free option for dump cake?
Yes! You can find gluten-free cake mixes at most grocery stores, allowing you to make a gluten-free dump cake while enjoying the same delightful flavors.
Can I make dump cake in advance?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately in your refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake it fresh for the optimal taste and texture.
Dump Cake
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 box Devil’s Food cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 ounces)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 bag milk chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips (11.5 ounces)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Dump the box of dry Devil’s Food cake mix directly into the prepared baking pan.
- Sprinkle the entire package of instant chocolate pudding mix over the cake mix and mix gently.
- Pour in the whole milk and melted unsalted butter, and mix until there are no dry pockets.
- Spread the batter evenly in the pan and sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
Baking
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the dump cake to cool for a few minutes before serving.