If you love chocolate, this Death by Chocolate Dump Cake is the perfect indulgence. It is rich, gooey, and packed with layers of chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and melted chocolate chips. Everything bakes together into a decadent dessert with minimal effort. No complicated steps—just mix, layer, and bake.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- One box of chocolate cake mix – Any brand will work to create a rich, chocolatey cake layer.
- One small box (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding – Provides a creamy, gooey texture.
- Two cups of milk – Whole milk is preferred for a richer consistency, but any milk will work.
- One tablespoon of cocoa powder – Enhances the depth of chocolate flavor.
- One and a half cups of chocolate chips – Semi-sweet, dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips can be used.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor and Texture
- Half a cup of chopped nuts – Walnuts or pecans add a crunchy texture.
- Half a cup of mini marshmallows – Adds pockets of gooey sweetness.
- One-fourth cup of espresso powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a slight coffee undertone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and 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 to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Pudding Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Allow the mixture to sit for about five minutes to set.
3. Assemble the Layers
- Evenly spread the dry chocolate cake mix across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the prepared pudding mixture over the cake mix. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, but do not stir.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly across the pudding layer.
- If using optional add-ins such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or espresso powder, sprinkle them on top.
4. Bake the Cake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center is slightly gooey.
- A toothpick inserted near the edges should come out mostly clean, while the center should remain soft.
5. Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, either as is or with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Dump Cake
- For an extra gooey texture, bake for slightly less time and let it rest before serving.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pudding mix.
- To enhance sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds before enjoying.
This chocolate dump cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that is perfect for any chocolate lover.