Name: Indulge in Cozy Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 box Chocolate Cake Mix (Select a brand with simple ingredients.); 1/2 cup Melted Butter (Can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.); 1 can Evaporated Milk (Regular or dairy-free option can be used.); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Use dark chocolate chips for a bolder flavor.); 1 cup Caramel Sauce (Store-bought or homemade.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Amid the chaos of daily life, nothing feels better than finding a dessert that delivers happiness in every bite. Enter the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake—a deceptively simple yet utterly indulgent treat that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. With just five ingredients, this crowd-pleaser comes together quickly and allows for endless customization, including a gluten-free option. Its warm layers of rich chocolate and gooey caramel create a delightful comfort that everyone can enjoy. Whether served alone or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. So, are you ready to dive into the world of warm, melted chocolate bliss? Let’s get started!

What Makes This Cake a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Core: This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. Endless Customization: Create your ideal dessert by swapping out toppings or using different flavored cake mixes for a unique twist. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its rich layers of chocolate and caramel are sure to impress guests at any gathering. Quick to Make: With just five ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in a flash! Comforting Flavor: Each bite offers a warm, gooey delight, reminiscent of a perfect brownie topped with melting caramel. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat!

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Chocolate Cake Mix – Creates a rich chocolate base and saves time; choose a brand with simple ingredients for best results.
Melted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; you can swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Evaporated Milk – Contributes to the gooey texture that makes this cake indulgent; regular milk or a dairy-free option can be used as a substitute.

For the Topping

Chocolate Chips – Intensifies the chocolate flavor and provides delightful pockets of melted chocolate; feel free to use dark chocolate chips for a bolder taste.
Caramel Sauce – Lends a sweet, gooey layer that beautifully contrasts with the chocolate; choose store-bought for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.

Now you’re just moments away from creating a decadent Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake that’s bound to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial to ensure your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the dish, making for easy serving and cleanup later on.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and evaporated milk. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well-blended, taking about 2-3 minutes. This creamy batter is the foundation of your cake, and it should have a thick but pourable consistency as you prepare to layer in the delicious toppings.

Step 3: Pour the Base
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. The batter should create a nice, even layer to support the melty chocolate chips and caramel to come. This first layer is vital for the overall texture and flavor of your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Caramel
Sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate chips over the batter, making sure to distribute them evenly for delightful pockets of melted chocolate. Next, drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the chocolate chips, allowing the rich sweetness to seep into the batter. This step brings a gooey contrast that enhances every bite of the cake.

Step 5: Layer Remaining Batter
Carefully spread the remaining cake batter over the chocolate chips and caramel, ensuring it is evenly coated. Use a spatula to smooth it out, creating a final layer that will bake beautifully. This top layer is essential, as it will form a fudgy crust that seals in the delicious caramel and chocolate below.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The cake should be slightly soft in the middle, providing that lovely gooey texture.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Letting it rest helps the caramel set slightly, making slicing much easier. Serve this decadent Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience!

Storage Tips for Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain its delicious gooeyness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds, or until heated through, and serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mix the cake batter and layer it with chocolate chips and caramel sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the prepared baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then pop it in the oven as per the original instructions. Doing this not only saves time but also ensures you can enjoy a warm, gooey dessert with minimal effort on a busy evening!

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake with these delightful twists that inspire creativity and flavor!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy this decadent dessert.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Double Chocolate: Swap in a double chocolate cake mix for an extra chocolatey experience, elevating your indulgence.
Banana Bliss: Layer sliced bananas in between the batter and chocolate chips for a delightful fruity surprise.
Salted Caramel: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel sauce before baking. This will elevate the sweet flavors.
Ice Cream Topping: Serve warm cake slices with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Mini Versions: Bake in muffin tins for individual serving sizes; just adjust the baking time down to around 20-25 minutes.
Mix in Yogurt: Substitute some of the evaporated milk with yogurt for added tang and creaminess, making each bite rich and vibrant.

Enjoy your culinary journey as you explore these variations! For more sweet inspirations, consider trying the delicious Yogurt Chocolate Chip or the comforting Chocolate Banana Protein in your next baking adventure.

What to Serve with Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Indulge in the decadent flavors of this delightful dessert with these complementary pairings that elevate your meal experience.

Chilled Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing brings a creamy contrast to the warm, gooey cake, creating a perfect balance of temperatures and flavors. A scoop on top can even help the cake melt just a bit more, enhancing each mouthful.
Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or strawberries add a delightful burst of freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake. Their juiciness cuts through the richness, making each bite more enjoyable.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the fudgy cake. A dollop on the side can enhance both flavor and presentation, making it extra inviting.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: For a sweet and salty crunch, serve chocolate-covered pretzels alongside. Their crisp texture complements the soft cake and adds an exciting crunch factor to the dessert experience.
Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your serving with an extra drizzle of warm caramel sauce. It enhances the main flavors and adds another layer of gooeyness that chocolate-lovers will adore!
Rich Coffee: A cup of well-brewed coffee or a mocha complements the dessert’s chocolate and caramel profile, heightening the enjoyment of every slice. The warmth and slight bitterness of coffee pair perfectly to round out the sweetness.
Nutty Toppings: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans over the cake for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness adds a delectable flavor contrast, enhancing the cake’s richness while providing textural variety.
Hot Chocolate: For a true indulgent experience, why not enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate on the side? This will amplify the dessert experience, making it feel like a warm hug in a cup!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cake to cool slightly for easier slicing; it will set further as it cools, ensuring a cleaner cut.
Check for Doneness: If the center appears too gooey, extend the bake time by 5-10 minutes, checking regularly with a toothpick to ensure it’s mostly clean.
Gluten-Free Option: When adapting the recipe for gluten-free needs, ensure your cake mix and chocolate chips are explicitly labeled gluten-free to avoid mishaps.
Layering Technique: Pour the batter slowly and evenly over the chocolate chips and caramel to create distinct layers for a better texture in your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavored chocolate cake mixes or add nuts alongside chocolate chips for a delightful crunch and a new take on this classic dessert.

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate cake mix should I use?
Absolutely, choosing a chocolate cake mix with recognizable ingredients will ensure the best flavor and texture for your dump cake. Whether you prefer a classic chocolate or venture into chocolate fudge or devil’s food variations, go for mixes that are high-quality. Look for those without artificial ingredients for a more authentic taste!

How should I store leftovers of Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?
You can store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, move it to the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure it’s sealed properly to maintain its moist texture!

Can I freeze Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?
Certainly! To freeze, cut the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps prevent freezer burn. Your chocolate caramel delights will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 15-30 seconds, and enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!

What should I do if my cake is too gooey in the middle?
If you find that the center is overly gooey after baking, don’t worry! Extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes, checking regularly. You’ll want to insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out mostly clean (with a few moist crumbs), the cake is done. Remember, it will continue to set as it cools, so a little gooeyness can be lovely if you give it time!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re accommodating allergies, it’s important to use gluten-free cake mix and chocolate chips for a gluten-free option. If you’re concerned about dairy, substituting the melted butter with coconut oil and the evaporated milk with a dairy-free milk alternative will work perfectly! Always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they’re allergy-safe for your guests.

What are some tasty variations for the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?
Very! You can mix it up by adding nuts alongside the chocolate chips for added crunch or trying different flavored cake mixes, like vanilla or even red velvet. For a gourmet touch, consider swirling in some peanut butter or sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top before serving, elevating the flavor experience even more!