Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake 

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and a fudgy texture for an effortless yet indulgent treat. Perfect for potlucks, casual gatherings, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No mixer required
• Simple layering technique
• Gooey caramel swirls throughout
• Fudgy, rustic texture
• Can be served warm or chilled

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Silicone spatula
• Spoon or small ladle

Ingredients

FOR THE CAKE:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup caramel sauce

FOR THE GANACHE:

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks or chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS:

• Chocolate shavings
• Chopped nuts or toffee bits

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Layer Cake Mix: Spread half of the dry chocolate cake mix evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Do not press it down.
3. Add Butter: Drizzle half of the melted butter over the cake mix, tilting the pan to help it soak evenly.
4. Add Caramel: Warm the caramel sauce in the microwave for 20–30 seconds until pourable. Drizzle it in a zigzag pattern over the buttered cake mix.
5. Second Layer: Sprinkle the remaining cake mix over the caramel layer. Some caramel peeking through is perfect. Drizzle the remaining melted butter on top.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is set and slightly fudgy.
7. Prepare Ganache: While baking, heat the heavy cream until steaming (about 45 seconds). Pour over chocolate chunks and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth and glossy.
8. Top Cake: When the cake is done, let it cool for 15 minutes, then pour ganache evenly over the top using a spatula.
9. Optional Toppings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or toffee bits if desired.
10. Serve: Serve warm for gooey texture or chilled if preferred.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Turtle Cake: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans and extra 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the caramel layer.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle 1/2 cup melted peanut butter over caramel.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over ganache.
• Extra Gooey: Use 1½ cups caramel instead of 1 cup.
• Simple Version: Skip ganache and serve plain or with powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
• Add whipped cream on top
• Dust with cocoa powder or fresh berries for presentation

Storage/Reheating

• Cover pan tightly and store at room temperature up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Reheat individual portions in microwave for 15–20 seconds, or reheat whole pan in 300°F oven for 15 minutes.
• Freeze wrapped in plastic and foil up to 3 months; thaw before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute butter and chocolate with dairy-free alternatives.

Q: Can I use homemade caramel?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when drizzled.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert for chocolate and caramel lovers. With its fudgy texture, gooey caramel swirls, and rich ganache, it’s perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.

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