Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

There’s something utterly magical about a Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake that makes it an absolute favorite for both weeknight desserts and special occasions. This dessert combines the rich, moist texture of chocolate cake with the gooey, buttery goodness of caramel, all baked effortlessly in one dish. It’s incredibly easy to assemble yet delivers complex flavors that feel like you spent hours in the kitchen, perfect for those moments when you want to impress with minimal effort. If you’re a fan of indulgent sweets that bring together chocolate and caramel in the most delightful way, this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake will quickly become your go-to treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake means gathering a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each chosen to bring out the best in flavor and texture. Every component plays its part in creating a decadent dessert that tastes like it came from your favorite bakery.

• Chocolate cake mix: The foundation of the cake, ensuring a moist, fluffy texture and rich chocolate flavor without extra fuss.
• Large eggs: Act as a binder to bring everything together and add richness.
• Whole milk: Provides moisture and helps blend the batter smoothly.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds a luscious, buttery note, enhancing both texture and taste.
• Caramel sauce: The star that delivers gooey, sweet bursts throughout the cake, balancing the chocolate perfectly.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chunks: For pockets of melty chocolate that contrast the caramel with slight bitterness.
• Heavy cream: Used to create a luscious drizzle or whipped topping to finish the dessert with elegance.

How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple prep step ensures your cake won’t stick, making it easy to serve those perfect, neat slices of Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake later.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, and whole milk. Stir everything together until just blended. The batter will be thick and rich, forming the base that will soak up the caramel and butter in the next step.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Pour half of your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drizzle half the caramel sauce over this first layer. Then sprinkle half of the chocolate chunks across the top. This layering will create delightful ribbons of caramel and melty chocolate pockets within the cake.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Batter and Toppings

Gently spoon the remaining batter over the caramel and chocolate layer so it mostly covers but doesn’t smother the fillings. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce evenly across the top, and sprinkle the rest of the chocolate chunks. Finally, pour the melted butter evenly over everything to ensure the cake edges crisp up beautifully, giving that classic dump cake texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is set and golden but still moist underneath. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs. The aroma of chocolate and caramel filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Drizzle

While the cake cools slightly, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, or simply warm it gently if using as a pour-over drizzle. This adds a silky smooth finishing touch that balances the decadence of the cake.

How to Serve Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance and texture, top servings of this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake with freshly whipped heavy cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can brighten the caramel’s sweetness and deepen the chocolate’s complexity, making each bite a sensory delight.

Side Dishes

Pairing your dessert with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can add a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness. A cup of robust coffee or a smooth latte also complements the chocolate caramel profile perfectly, enhancing your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming presentation at parties or potlucks. Layered with extra caramel drizzle and chocolate chips on top, these single servings make it super easy to enjoy without any fuss or cleanup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to meld even more beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It stores well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices of the cake in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes. Adding a drizzle of warmed caramel sauce or a dollop of cream enhances the experience even more.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce or should I make my own?

Both options work wonderfully! Store-bought caramel sauce saves time and still offers rich flavor, while homemade caramel can add a personal touch if you’re up for it. Either way, the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake will be delicious.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix will keep the dessert safe for those avoiding gluten, without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

While heavy cream provides that silky richness, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter topping if desired. Just keep in mind it won’t whip as well or be quite as creamy.

How do I know when the dump cake is fully baked?

Look for a golden crust on top and edges that have pulled slightly away from the pan. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures perfect moistness and doneness.

Can I prepare the cake the night before baking?

You can assemble the entire cake in the dish and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time to ensure it cooks evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is one of those amazing desserts that feels like a celebration in every bite, yet it couldn’t be easier to pull together. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings. Give it a try and watch how this humble dump cake becomes a treasured favorite in your recipe collection!

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