Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

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When you’re craving something rich, indulgent, and decadently gooey, Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is your go-to dessert. This easy-to-make treat combines the best parts of a chocolate cake and a caramel brownie, all in one gooey spoonful. The magic happens as everything bakes together in one pan, no mixing bowls required—just dump, bake, and enjoy.

The combination of moist chocolate cake and buttery caramel sauce is pure comfort food. Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it turns into a molten masterpiece that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day. The best part? It takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

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What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

For this recipe, a classic chocolate cake mix works best. You can use devil’s food cake mix for an extra rich flavor or go with dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa punch. The key is to choose a mix that pairs well with the caramel and holds its own when baked.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Chocolate Cake Mix
A box of your favorite chocolate cake mix is the foundation. It gives the cake its fluffy, rich body without needing to bake from scratch.

Caramel Sauce
Use a thick, buttery caramel sauce to drizzle in between layers. It melts beautifully while baking, creating ribbons of caramel inside the cake.

Evaporated Milk
This helps the caramel stay luscious and adds creaminess to the overall texture.

Butter
Slices of butter on top help to crisp up the surface while soaking into the cake mix, making the edges golden and slightly crunchy.

Chocolate Chips
Add a generous handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips to amplify the chocolate flavor and create melty pockets of goodness.

Vanilla Ice Cream (for serving)
Not a baking ingredient per se, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm serving is highly recommended.

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How To Make the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

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

Step 2: Layer the Caramel Base

Pour the caramel sauce evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Add the evaporated milk and gently swirl to combine slightly without stirring too much.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the chocolate cake mix evenly over the caramel layer. Do not mix. Let it sit as a dry layer on top.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Chips and Butter

Scatter the chocolate chips over the cake mix. Then, slice the butter thinly and place the slices across the top to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake to Gooey Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should be crisp and the edges bubbling with caramel. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

Serve this dessert warm, right out of the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The hot and cold combo is heavenly.

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds to bring back that gooey texture.

For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?

You’ll notice bubbling edges and a crisp, golden top. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out mostly clean with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s thick and buttery. Homemade caramel can enhance the flavor even more.

Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?

While not mandatory, evaporated milk gives a creamier finish to the caramel layer. You could substitute with heavy cream in a pinch.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Cook on high for about 2 hours or low for 4. Just be sure to line your slow cooker with parchment for easier cleanup.

What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

You can swap them for chopped chocolate bars, white chocolate chips, or even caramel chips if you’re feeling extra sweet.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time by an extra 10 minutes and keep an eye on doneness.

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Gooey Twist?

If you love this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Caramel Pretzel Blondies for that salty-sweet crunch.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies with toasty nuts and chewy centers.
• Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes that ooze chocolate with every bite.
• Peanut Butter Caramel Bars if you’re a fan of peanut butter and sweet gooey fillings.
• Crockpot Chocolate Cobbler for a warm and easy slow-cooked dessert.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make your own caramel? Add a sprinkle of sea salt? Try it with white chocolate chips?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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