Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

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When I made this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake for the first time, it disappeared from the table before I could blink. The layers of gooey caramel and rich chocolate come together like a dessert dream, and the best part? It takes barely any effort. I was honestly amazed at how something so indulgent and decadent could be so simple to pull together.

I’m a big fan of dump cakes because they allow you to satisfy that sweet tooth craving without pulling out every bowl in the kitchen. This one in particular is my favorite, thanks to the sweet-salty balance of the caramel, the deep cocoa flavors, and the fudgy brownie-like texture that forms as it bakes. It’s the kind of dessert you make once and then crave again and again.

And let me just say, if you’re hosting a potluck or just want to make something that will earn you all the compliments, this is the one. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can serve it warm or chilled, making it great for any time of the year. If you’re into easy desserts like Ooey Gooey Bars or Delicious Lemon Cake, you’re going to fall in love with this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

This dessert combines the best of both worlds: rich chocolate cake and silky caramel. You won’t need a mixer or even a bowl. Everything is layered straight into the baking dish, which means minimal cleanup and maximum reward. The texture is irresistibly fudgy in the center with a crackly top and bits of melted chocolate chunks throughout.

The simplicity of it makes it perfect for beginner bakers, and yet, the flavor is impressive enough for the seasoned dessert connoisseur. It’s sweet, indulgent, comforting, and completely irresistible. It’s also super adaptable, so you can easily tweak it to fit your mood or pantry.

Ingredients

Chocolate cake mix
This is the base of the dump cake and gives it that rich, chocolatey body. You can use devil’s food cake mix, fudge cake mix, or even a triple chocolate variation.

Caramel sauce
Adds gooey sweetness and buttery flavor that creates that classic lava-like texture when baked between the layers.

Evaporated milk
Helps thin out the caramel slightly, making it easier to spread and soak into the cake layers for moistness.

Butter
Melted butter ensures the cake mix forms a soft, dense texture instead of staying powdery. It also adds a rich, buttery note.

Chocolate chips or chunks
These create pockets of melted chocolate goodness throughout the cake. Use semi-sweet or dark for a balanced sweetness.

Optional: sea salt
A sprinkle of sea salt over the top enhances the sweet flavors and gives it that gourmet touch.

How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Cake Mix

Pour half of the dry chocolate cake mix evenly into the bottom of the dish. Do not mix or press down. Just spread it out with a spoon or your hands.

Step 3: Add Caramel Layer

In a small saucepan, gently heat the caramel sauce with the evaporated milk until warm and pourable. Pour the mixture over the dry cake mix in the baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Cake Mix

Sprinkle the rest of the cake mix evenly over the caramel layer. Again, no mixing.

Step 5: Pour on the Butter

Drizzle the melted butter slowly and evenly across the top of the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much surface area as possible to moisten the cake mix.

Step 6: Top with Chocolate Chunks

Scatter your chocolate chips or chunks generously over the top. If you like a salty-sweet combo, now’s the time to add a pinch of sea salt too.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the dump cake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is set and bubbly. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to help it firm up slightly while still staying gooey.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

One of the beautiful things about Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is how flexible it can be. You can swap out the chocolate cake mix for a brownie mix to give it a denser, more decadent base. Want to go for a chocolate-peanut butter vibe? Add peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chunks, or drizzle some peanut butter over the caramel before baking.

You can also make it nutty by tossing in some chopped pecans or walnuts with the chocolate chips. If you’re a fan of turtle desserts, this version is right up your alley. For a fruity contrast, swirl in raspberry or cherry preserves with the caramel layer. It adds a tart brightness that pairs beautifully with the deep chocolate.

Need it dairy-free? Use a plant-based butter and a dairy-free caramel sauce. It won’t sacrifice taste or texture.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake warm and gooey straight from the oven. It’s heavenly on its own, but if you want to take it over the top, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold creaminess melts into the warm cake for the ultimate dessert experience.

It also pairs well with coffee or a rich dessert wine. For parties, cut it into squares and top each with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of shaved chocolate. If you’re having a casual movie night, scoop it into bowls and dig in with spoons—no judgment.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Let the cake cool to room temperature before covering and storing. You can keep it in the baking dish tightly wrapped with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

To reheat, just microwave individual servings for 20 to 30 seconds until warm. If reheating a larger portion in the oven, cover it loosely with foil and bake at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

What makes Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake different from regular dump cakes?

The luscious caramel layer baked into the center is what sets this apart. It’s gooier and more decadent than most dump cakes thanks to the warm caramel and chocolate pairing.

Can I make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply warm it up before serving. It also tastes great chilled if you prefer a firmer texture.

Do I have to use chocolate cake mix for Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?

Not at all. You can substitute with brownie mix for a fudgier result, or try a German chocolate cake mix for added richness.

Can I freeze Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven.

How do I know when Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is done baking?

You’ll know it’s ready when the top is set, the edges are bubbly, and the caramel is thickened. A few moist crumbs on a toothpick is fine, but it shouldn’t look raw in the center.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re loving the vibe of this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake, you should definitely check out Ooey Gooey Bars. They’re rich, sticky, and have that same satisfying bite of indulgence. For something with a citrus kick, Delicious Lemon Cake is a crowd-favorite that balances tangy and sweet in every bite.

Looking for something fruity and easy? Try the Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler — it has that same cozy, rustic charm and comes together with hardly any effort. These are the kind of recipes that turn simple ingredients into showstopping desserts.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake made your mouth water, don’t forget to save it! Pin it to your favorite dessert board on Pinterest so it’s just a click away next time that chocolate craving hits.

Share the love by emailing this recipe to a fellow sweet tooth or posting it to your Facebook feed. You can also snap a pic of your creation and tag it online—I’d love to see your version! Whether you’re baking it for a special gathering or a lazy Sunday, this cake deserves to be shared.

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