1-Bowl Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this dessert tastes like something from a bakery but is as simple as dump-and-bake. It’s chocolatey, peanut buttery, and loaded with candy, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a weekend craving. The one-bowl method keeps it quick and fuss-free, and the flavor combination is pure comfort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chocolate cake mix

• Milk

• Eggs

• Vegetable oil

• Creamy peanut butter

• Mini peanut butter cups (halved)

• Whipped topping (for serving)

• Chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cake mix, milk, eggs, and oil, mixing until smooth.

3. I stir in the peanut butter until just combined—it’s okay if there are a few swirls.

4. I fold in half of the chopped peanut butter cups.

5. I pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

6. I sprinkle the remaining peanut butter cups on top.

7. I bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

8. I let it cool slightly before serving, topping each slice with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup if I want extra decadence.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings. It takes 5–10 minutes to prep, 30–35 minutes to bake, and just a few minutes to cool before serving.

Variations

• I sometimes add a swirl of Nutella for an extra chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

• For a more intense peanut butter taste, I use peanut butter cake mix instead of chocolate.

• I’ve made it with chopped Snickers or Reese’s Pieces for fun texture and variety.

• If I want it extra moist, I replace the milk with chocolate milk.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, I’ve used crunchy peanut butter, and it adds a nice bit of texture.

Do I need to melt the peanut butter before mixing?

No, I just stir it in at room temperature so it swirls easily without overmixing.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often bake it a day ahead, cover it, and serve it at room temperature or slightly warmed.

What kind of peanut butter cups work best?

Mini peanut butter cups are easiest to chop and distribute, but full-size ones work if cut into small pieces.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, I freeze individual slices wrapped tightly, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This 1-bowl peanut butter cup dump cake delight is everything I love in a dessert—rich, easy, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and only one bowl to clean, it’s a go-to recipe for busy days when I still want a homemade sweet that impresses.