If you’re looking for a dessert that’s deeply decadent yet blissfully easy, let me introduce you to Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake. Imagine a gooey, molten layer of chocolate cake mingling with ribbons of buttery caramel and pockets of melty chocolate chips, all crowned with a nutty crunch—every bite screams comfort. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat that rises triumphantly from the oven with barely any effort and maximum payoff, perfect for weeknights or celebrations. This is one of those magic recipes you’ll be excited to share, and everyone will beg for the secrets behind it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe takes a handful of pantry staples and transforms them into something sensational. Each ingredient brings its own special touch to the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake, from luscious richness to gooey texture and that craveable chocolate-caramel combo!
- Chocolate cake mix: The base of the cake, delivering tender chocolatey layers and making this dessert delightfully easy to assemble.
- Evaporated milk: Adds a creamy richness and helps meld the layers for that signature fudgy texture.
- Caramel sauce: The star that swirls through the cake, infusing every bite with sweet, buttery goodness.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Brings moisture and decadent flavor—don’t skip it!
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Pockets of melted chocolate that make this cake downright irresistible.
- Chopped pecans (optional): For a lovely crunch and nutty contrast, though you can absolutely leave them out for a nut-free treat.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for making sure every slice lifts out cleanly (and your baking dish stays happy!).
How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake
Step 1: Ready Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F—this way it’ll be hot and ready when your cake is assembled. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and hit it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This step saves you from stuck-on cake, making serving (and clean-up) a total breeze.
Step 2: Start the Gooey Foundation
Pour half the can of evaporated milk into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out gently to cover the bottom. This liquid gold forms the base, ensuring your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake bakes up with that trademark molten richness from the very first layer.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle your dry chocolate cake mix evenly across the milk in the dish—no mixing required! Let it sit like a delicious chocolate blanket, ready to soak up all the flavor and become tender as it bakes.
Step 4: Pour & Drizzle (Butter, Milk, and Caramel)
Next, drizzle the remaining evaporated milk and all the melted butter right over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as you can. Then comes the best part: pour the jar of caramel sauce in decadent swirls across the top. These liquid ingredients will melt together in the oven, creating lush caramel pools and buttery pockets throughout the cake.
Step 5: Chocolate Chips and Pecans
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips (and pecans, if you’re using them) evenly over everything. These little bursts of texture and flavor make each bite crave-worthy—you’ll get gooey melted chocolate and satisfying crunch.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Without stirring a thing (seriously, hands off!), pop your assembled dish into the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the center has set most of the way but remains soft. Let it rest out of the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, which gives everything time to settle and lets those caramel rivers thicken just enough. Serve warm and watch everyone swoon!
How to Serve Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake
Garnishes
The crowning glory of Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is all about those finishing touches! Try a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting alongside, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for more gooey decadence. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips or chopped pecans on top if you’re feeling fancy—totally worth it.
Side Dishes
This rich cake sings when served on its own, but for a truly memorable dessert spread, pair it with fresh berries, a simple fruit salad, or even coffee or espresso to cut through the sweetness. Each side offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake for a picture-perfect plate.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t have to limit yourself to simple squares! Try serving the cake in individual ramekins, parfait glasses layered with whipped cream, or cut into rustic wedges and topped with hot fudge. Mini portions on dessert buffets or tiered platters make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake keeps beautifully for up to 4 days in the fridge. Cover the baking dish snugly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container to keep them delicious and moist.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze your cake, let it cool completely first, then wrap portions tightly in plastic and foil. Stash them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, reheat Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake in the microwave (about 20 to 30 seconds per slice) or warm the whole dish in the oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm for gooey perfection!
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor instead of chocolate?
Absolutely! While chocolate is classic, try devil’s food, German chocolate, or even yellow cake mix for a fun twist. Each option offers a unique personality to your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake.
Is it possible to make this dessert nut-free?
Definitely! Just skip the pecans, or swap in chopped pretzels or extra chocolate chips if you still want some crunch. The cake is just as delicious without any nuts.
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Homemade caramel sauce works wonderfully and adds an extra layer of flavor, though the store-bought kind is speedy and reliable—either way, your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake will taste amazing!
Why shouldn’t I stir the layers?
Dump cakes are all about the magic of layering. If you stir, you lose those luscious pockets of caramel and chocolate, so resist the urge and let the oven do the work for those incredible gooey bites.
What’s the best way to transport this dessert to a potluck?
Let the cake cool slightly, cover tightly with foil, and gently reheat at your destination if possible. Bring some ice cream or extra caramel in a cooler for last-minute garnishing and wow everyone with a warm Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake straight from the oven.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake enough—it’s the kind of dessert that always draws a crowd and never leaves leftovers behind. Whether you’re a baking pro or need something foolproof, this treat delivers absolute delight every single time. Give it a try and make it your new signature sweet!
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Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake, a luscious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a simple yet irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Toppings:
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Additional:
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer the ingredients: Pour half of the evaporated milk into the dish, sprinkle the dry cake mix, drizzle the remaining milk and melted butter, pour the caramel sauce, sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, alone or with ice cream.
Notes
- For extra gooeyness, add 1/4 cup more caramel sauce after baking.
- Customize by using walnuts instead of pecans or omitting nuts altogether.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
