If you're searching for a dessert that combines rich chocolate and gooey caramel with minimal effort, look no further than the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake. This delightful treat layers chocolate cake mix, caramel sauce, and chocolate chips to create a dessert that's both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make with minimal prep
Rich chocolate and caramel flavors in every bite
Perfect for parties, holidays, or a casual dessert night
Warm and comforting, especially when served with ice cream or whipped cream
Easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
1 cup milk
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
1 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Stir in the caramel sauce and chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cake while it’s still warm.
Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12–16
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Variations

Add a swirl of peanut butter for a chocolate-peanut butter twist
Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Use mint extract or crushed peppermint for a holiday version
Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips
Swap out caramel for dulce de leche or fudge sauce for a different flavor profile

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm the whole cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep the cake in an airtight container either at room temperature for a couple of days or in the fridge for longer storage.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, freeze slices or the whole cake (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely, homemade caramel sauce works great and adds a richer flavor.

What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can omit them or replace with chunks of chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds all pair nicely with the chocolate and caramel.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, devil’s food, fudge, or even a brownie mix can work as tasty alternatives.

How do I make the cake extra gooey?

Add extra caramel sauce both in the batter and as a topping after baking.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes, though it’s best served warm to enjoy the gooey caramel and melted chocolate chips.

Conclusion

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert with big flavor. Whether you're making it for a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this cake delivers comfort and sweetness in every bite. With its gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and warm, soft texture, it's bound to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake

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Author: Emmily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12–16 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining gooey caramel and rich chocolate with minimal prep. Perfect for holidays, parties, or weeknight cravings, this easy dump cake uses chocolate cake mix, caramel sauce, and chocolate chips to deliver warm, comforting sweetness in every bite. Serve it with ice cream or whipped cream for a truly decadent experience.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix

1 cup milk

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

3 large eggs

1 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)

1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

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Instructions

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
Stir in the caramel sauce and chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Drizzle more caramel sauce over the cake while it’s warm.
Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Add whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Notes

For a gooier texture, add extra caramel sauce both in the batter and as a topping.
To switch things up, try different mix-ins like peanut butter, nuts, or peppermint.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for 3 days or refrigerated for 5.
Reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the full cake in a low oven.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American