Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
If you are craving a dessert that effortlessly blends rich chocolate and luscious caramel into a warm, gooey treat, this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a no-fuss crowd-pleaser that tastes like it took hours to create but comes together in a snap. Each bite brings a delightful harmony of sweet caramel ribbons, moist chocolate cake, and melty chocolate chips, making it a perfect dish to cozy up with or impress guests without sweating the details.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe means gathering some simple, yet essential ingredients that each play a starring role in the final flavor and texture. These ingredients are easy to find and combine to create sweetness, richness, and that soft, tender crumb you crave.
- 1 box chocolate cake mix: The foundation providing that perfect chocolaty crumb without any fuss.
- 1 cup caramel sauce: Adds a luscious, sweet contrast that melts into the cake as it bakes.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Melted butter soaks in perfectly to help create a moist, rich texture.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: A creamy, sweet addition that gives the cake a luxurious gooeyness.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips: Little bursts of melty chocolate that boost the decadence factor.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor for some extra texture.
How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Grease Your Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s perfectly ready when you’re done layering your ingredients. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well, which prevents sticking and helps with easy serving later on.
Step 2: Spread the Cake Mix
Pour the chocolate cake mix directly into the baking dish and spread it out evenly. This forms the dry base that the caramel and other luscious ingredients will soak into during baking, creating layers of flavor and a tender crumb.
Step 3: Drizzle the Caramel and Condensed Milk
Next, drizzle the caramel sauce over the cake mix, spreading it with a spoon if needed so that it distributes in rich ribbons throughout. Then add the sweetened condensed milk on top—it will mingle with the caramel and cake mix to create an ooey-gooey, indulgent layer.
Step 4: Add Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly across the entire surface. This is what helps the cake mix crisp up slightly around the edges and stay tender and moist inside, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Step 5: Sprinkle Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Scatter the chocolate chips on top, allowing them to melt into little pockets of chocolate that will surprise your taste buds. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them now for a lovely contrast in texture and a bit of nuttiness that complements the caramel and chocolate.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and you can see the caramel bubbling around the edges. This visual cue tells you that all the sweet goodness has cooked into the cake perfectly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly to let it set. This makes it easier to cut and serve while still warm enough to enjoy the melted caramel and chocolate that make this cake unforgettable.
How to Serve Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top brings a creamy coolness that balances the warm, sweet cake beautifully. Fresh berries can add a bright, tangy contrast if you’re looking to add color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or a rich glass of milk to round out the indulgence. If you want to extend the dessert experience, a simple fruit salad or some toasted marshmallows served alongside can really elevate the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins for personal portions that look fancy but are just as easy. You can also drizzle extra caramel or chocolate sauce on top for a dramatic, luscious presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your cake has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen after a day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake after baking and cooling. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To rediscover that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F until heated through. Serving with a scoop of ice cream after reheating creates a delightful treat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chocolate cake mix is classic here, you can experiment with devil’s food or even a German chocolate mix for a twist. Each will offer a slightly different flavor profile but keep the essence of the recipe.
Do I have to use caramel sauce or can I make my own?
Store-bought caramel sauce works great for convenience, but making your own caramel from scratch adds a personal touch. Just be careful to avoid burning the sugar, and use a smooth, pourable caramel for the best results.
Is it okay to omit the nuts if I have allergies?
Yes! The nuts are completely optional and serve to add crunch and extra flavor. Your cake will still be wonderfully rich and moist without them.
Can I prepare this cake in advance for a party?
Definitely. This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before and bake it the day of your event, or even bake it ahead and gently reheat when guests arrive.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers to keep them fresh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge so they don’t dry out. When serving, reheating gently and adding fresh toppings will revive the chocolate and caramel flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe is a beloved go-to that brings joy to any table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite to share with friends and family. So grab your pan, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into the warm embrace of chocolate and caramel magic!
Print
Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is a simple, decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate cake mix, luscious caramel sauce, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips, this easy-to-make cake delivers a gooey, flavorful treat with minimal effort. The addition of melted butter and optional chopped nuts creates a moist, tender crumb with a delightful texture. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy bakers who want a crowd-pleasing dessert with little fuss.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Layer cake mix: Pour the entire box of chocolate cake mix into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form a uniform base layer across the pan.
- Add caramel and condensed milk: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top of the dry cake mix, followed by an even pour of sweetened condensed milk to infuse moisture and rich sweetness throughout.
- Pour melted butter: Carefully pour the melted unsalted butter uniformly over the entire surface. This butter helps create a moist texture and encourages the cake mix to cook properly.
- Top with chocolate chips and nuts: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top for extra bursts of chocolate flavor. If using, scatter the chopped nuts evenly to add a crunchy texture contrast.
- Bake until golden: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This resting time allows the gooey layers to set for easier slicing and better flavor development.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature butter to ensure it melts evenly over the cake mix.
- Chopped nuts are optional; walnuts or pecans complement the flavors well if desired.
- The cake is rich and sweet; serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- You can substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel or dulce de leche for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
