If you have a sweet tooth craving something incredibly delightful, you simply must try this Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of rich chocolate, luscious caramel, and a moist crumb that feels like a warm hug from your oven. This recipe is a wonderful twist on the classic dump cake, turning it into an indulgent dessert that’s deceptively easy to throw together but tastes like you spent all day baking. Every bite brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity, with just a few essential ingredients that work together to create magic. Each item is carefully chosen to bring out the best in taste, texture, and appearance, making it an inviting treat straight from your kitchen.
- Chocolate cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): This forms the rich, chocolaty base that’s both fluffy and moist, providing the perfect structure for the cake.
- Eggs (2 large): They help bind everything together and add tenderness to the crumb.
- Whole milk (½ cup): Adds moisture and richness, making the cake wonderfully soft.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Responsible for a golden crust and buttery depth of flavor.
- Caramel sauce (1 cup): This is where the magic happens—its gooey sweetness contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chunks (½ cup): These add pockets of melty chocolate in every bite and are the star of the ganache.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Key to making a silky, luxurious ganache that crowns the cake perfectly.
How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the cake loosens easily once baked. This sets the stage for a perfectly cooked, no-stick dessert.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, whole milk, melted butter, and any other moisture-enhancers you love like baking powder or sour cream for extra tender crumb (optional, but a great touch). Stir everything until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. This simple step transforms a boxed cake mix into a heavenly homemade treat loaded with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Layer the Cake and Caramel
Pour half of the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Gently drizzle half of the warmed caramel sauce over the batter, making sure it spreads somewhat evenly but not fully mixed in. Then, top with the remaining batter, creating layers that bake into pockets of gooey caramel and rich cake.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached but not wet batter. The cake will have a beautiful crust and a tender interior just waiting for the final touch.
Step 5: Make and Pour the Ganache
While the cake cools, gently heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks. Stir until you have a smooth, glossy ganache that’s creamy and irresistible. Pour the ganache over the cooled cake, letting it drip over the edges for a stunning finish that’s as delicious as it looks.
How to Serve Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe even more, add some fresh garnishes. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the ganache can enhance the flavors wonderfully. Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm, gooey centers. A handful of chopped nuts or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce gives a delightful crunch and added sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t steal the spotlight but complement the flavors. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, provide a subtle tartness that balances the cake’s richness. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or creamy latte is an ideal beverage companion, creating a relaxing moment to savor every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or special occasions, consider serving this cake in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You can also layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream and caramel drizzle between layers for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece. Another fun idea is to slice the cake and plate it artfully alongside a scoop of ice cream, a sprig of mint, and a delicate dusting of cocoa powder.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to five days. Just make sure to cover it to prevent drying out and to preserve the moist texture.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully if you want to enjoy it later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual slices or the whole cake in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until warm. For a crisper edge, warming in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes works wonderfully. You’ll get that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, especially when paired with a dab of ice cream or whipped cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While a chocolate cake mix is recommended for the best flavor combo, you could experiment with devil’s food or fudge cake mixes for an even richer taste. Just remember the balance with caramel is key to keeping that amazing flavor contrast.
Do I need to warm the caramel sauce before adding it?
Warming the caramel slightly before drizzling makes it easier to spread and blend with the batter layers, creating those beautiful pockets of gooey goodness that define the recipe. Room temperature caramel can work but heating it gently ensures a better texture distribution.
Is it necessary to make the ganache topping?
The ganache is a wonderful finishing touch that boosts the decadence of the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe. While optional, it adds smoothness and a professional look. If you prefer, you can dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream instead.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
If you choose a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, this recipe can definitely be adapted for gluten-free diets. Just double-check all other ingredients like caramel and toppings to ensure they do not contain gluten.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, your cake is perfectly baked—moist and tender without being raw or overcooked.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that brings joy with every mouthful. It’s simple enough for weeknight baking but special enough to impress at any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy day treat or a showstopper for your next dinner party, I hope you fall in love with this sweet, sticky, and utterly delicious cake as much as I have. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for a dessert experience unlike any other!
Print
Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This indulgent Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake combines the rich flavors of chocolate cake mix with a luscious caramel swirl, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. With minimal prep and a single baking dish, it’s an easy and decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup sour cream
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup caramel sauce, warmed
Topping
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, whole milk, melted butter, baking powder, and sour cream. Mix well until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Layer the Batter and Caramel: Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the warmed caramel sauce over this layer to create a sweet, gooey swirl. Then spoon the remaining batter on top, spreading gently to cover the caramel.
- Bake the Cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Prepare the Ganache: While the cake cools, gently heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chunks until the mixture is smooth and glossy, creating a rich ganache.
- Finish and Serve: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the cooled cake, allowing it to set before slicing and serving. This adds a decadent finish and extra chocolate flavor to the cake.
Notes
- Allow the cake to cool before adding the ganache to prevent it from melting too much.
- You can warm the caramel sauce gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for easier drizzling.
- This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before serving, if desired.
- If sour cream is unavailable, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for moisture and tang.
