This easy chocolate dump cake is one of those desserts that disappears fast every time I make it. With chocolate cake mix, instant pudding, and plenty of chocolate chips, it's rich, fudgy, and almost impossible to mess up.
It bakes up with a soft, brownie-like center and gooey pockets of melted chocolate in every bite. It's an old fashioned shortcut dessert that's perfect for weeknight treats, potlucks, or whenever you need a little chocolate.
I can picture a grandma setting this warm cake on the table with a scoop of vanilla ice cream after Sunday dinner.
What You Need to Know
- The instant pudding creates an extra moist, rich chocolate cake.
- Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake soft and tender.
- This dessert tastes delicious warm with ice cream or cooled the next day.
- Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch if you'd like.
Ingredients Overview
- Chocolate cake mix: Devil's food or dark chocolate cake mix both work beautifully.
- Chocolate pudding mix: Be sure to use the instant pudding mix, not the cook-and-serve variety.
- Milk: Whole milk creates the richest texture, but 2% milk also works well.
- Vegetable oil: Canola or sunflower oil can be substituted.
- Milk chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are great options if you prefer a richer chocolate flavor.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Add the chocolate cake mix and dry instant pudding mix to the baking dish or a large mixing bowl. Pour in the milk and oil, then stir just until everything is combined.
Step 3: Fold in the chocolate chips and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish if mixing in a separate bowl.
Step 4: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool for several minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with vanilla ice cream.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle with warm chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries.
Grandma's Tips
- Don't overmix the batter or the cake may become dense.
- Serve while still slightly warm for the gooey chocolate chip pockets.
Modern Updates
- Add peanut butter chips or butterscotch chips for a fun flavor twist.
- Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
More Easy Dessert Recipes
- Easy Peach Dump Cake (with Canned Peaches)
- Old Fashioned Hawaiian Poke Cake
- Old Fashioned Pineapple Dump Cake
- Chocolate Loaf Cake
- Old Fashioned Cherry Dump Cake
FAQs
What Is a Chocolate Dump Cake?
Chocolate dump cake is a simple dessert made with cake mix and a few pantry ingredients that are combined and baked into a rich, fudgy cake.
Can I Use Chocolate Cake Mix Without Pudding?
Yes, but the instant pudding helps create a softer, moister texture and richer chocolate flavor.
Can I Make Chocolate Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes. Bake the cake, cool completely, and cover tightly. It stays fresh for several days and reheats well.
How Do You Store Chocolate Dump Cake?
Store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Individual slices can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Easy Chocolate Dump Cake with Instant Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Combine the chocolate cake mix, dry pudding mix, milk, and oil. Stir just until no dry streaks remain.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Instant pudding mix makes the cake extra moist and fudgy.
- Do not overmix the batter or the cake can become dense.
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips can be substituted for milk chocolate.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!
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