Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Name: Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 package (3.9 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix; 2 cups milk (preferably room temperature); 2 cups mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, roughly chopped

Author: Natalie Brooks

Published: November 22, 2025

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Introduction to Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

There are days when I crave something sweet, yet the clock sneaks up on me. That’s when I turn to my beloved Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake. This delightful dessert comes together in a snap, making it the perfect solution for busy days. Whether you’re trying to impress your loved ones or just want a quick indulgence for yourself, this cake delivers rich chocolatey goodness and creamy peanut butter bliss in every bite. It’s an easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing precious time. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a decadent dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The moist chocolate cake mingles perfectly with the peanut butter cups, creating a symphony of flavor in every slice. Plus, it’s ready in just about 40 minutes, leaving you more time to cherish those sweet moments with loved ones.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Creating this delightful Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is as easy as pie—well, easier! Here’s what you’ll need:

Chocolate Cake Mix: The base of our cake, providing rich flavor and fluffy texture. I love using a quality brand that ensures moistness.
Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix: This adds an extra layer of chocolaty goodness and helps keep the cake moist. Instant is key here for speed!

Milk: Room temperature milk works best to keep the batter smooth. You can use cow’s milk or any plant-based alternative that you love.
Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The star of this cake! These provide creamy peanut butter goodness with delightful chocolate bits and are just the right size for folding into the batter. Feel free to chop them yourself, or buy pre-chopped versions for convenience.

For those looking to customize, consider adding:

Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy contrast.
Coconut Flakes: If you’re a coconut lover, these can provide a sweet, tropical twist.

Exact amounts of each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article for your convenience and printing needs!

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat your oven to 350°F. While it’s heating, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it well with non-stick spray. This little step ensures your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake won’t stick. Trust me; no one wants cake remnants stuck to the bottom!

Mix the Pudding and Milk

Now, let’s create a luscious base. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your room temperature milk and chocolate pudding mix. It’s like a chocolate dream coming true! Keep mixing until it’s smooth and slightly thick, which usually takes about a minute. This step is so crucial as it will guarantee a rich, creamy texture in our cake.

Combine Cake Mix

Next, grab your chocolate cake mix and add it directly to the pudding mixture. I like to gently stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—this maintains that moist texture we all crave. Picture a thick and velvety batter that’s just waiting to burst with flavor.

Fold in the Peanut Butter Cups

Time to add the magic! Carefully fold in most of those chopped mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, saving a few for the top. Folding in the candy ensures every bite is packed with that delightful peanut butter flavor. Feel free to get a little creative here! The more, the merrier, right?

Bake to Perfection

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved Reese’s on top to create a beautiful finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Then you know it’s ready!

Serve and Enjoy

Let your cake cool slightly—if you can resist! This Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake is amazing warm, but you can also serve it at room temperature. For an extra treat, consider whipping up some whipped cream or serving with a scoop of ice cream. It elevates the dessert to a whole new level!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t forget to grease your baking dish well to avoid sticking.
For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake the cake.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Get creative with toppings! Try drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce for added flair.

Equipment Needed

Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal. If you don’t have one, you can use an 8×8-inch dish and adjust the baking time.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is necessary for mixing. Any size that accommodates all your ingredients will do!
Whisk: Perfect for blending the pudding and milk. If you don’t have a whisk, a fork will work just fine.

Rubber Spatula: Great for folding in the peanut butter cups and scraping the bowl. A wooden spoon can be a good alternative.

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Swap the mini Reese’s for chocolate chips or sunflower seed butter candies to keep it nut-free while maintaining that chocolaty goodness.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and instant pudding mix. This way, friends with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the dessert too!

Vegan Adaptation: Replace the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a vegan chocolate cake mix. You can also find vegan instant pudding mixes!
Simplified Version: Use a one-bowl cake mix instead of combining pudding and cake mix separately. Some brands streamline this process brilliantly!
Flavor Twists: Experiment with adding a teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha flavor or a pinch of sea salt on top for that sweet-salty contrast!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake with a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
Serve it warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the chocolate experience.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top before serving.

Offer a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Consider drizzling chocolate sauce on each slice for added sweetness and flair!

FAQs about Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake

Can I make this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving for best results.

What can I use instead of peanut butter cups?

If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, chocolate chips or caramel-filled candies are great alternatives. You could also try chopped chocolate bars or even toffee bits for a different twist!

How should I store leftovers of this cake?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If it lasts longer than that, I recommend refrigerating it. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake?

Definitely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What toppings pair well with this cake?

Oh, the possibilities! A sprinkle of sea salt, drizzles of caramel or chocolate syrup, or even some fresh whipped cream can elevate your dessert experience to new heights!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly rewarding about pulling this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake out of the oven. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, and I can almost hear its call to gather around the table. This dessert isn’t just about chocolate and peanut butter; it’s about shared moments and sweet smiles. Whether it’s a family game night or a simple weekday treat, this cake brings joy and satisfaction. Try it, and you’ll see! I guarantee it will become a cherished recipe in your home, offering sweet solace on those busy days. Gather your loved ones—they’ll thank you later!