Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining layers of rich chocolate cake with buttery caramel and a smooth ganache topping. This delightful treat is not only easy to make, but its unique flavor profile makes it a hit at gatherings or as a special indulgence at home. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe will surely impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake:
• For the Ganache:
• Optional Toppings:
• How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
• Step 2: Layer the Caramel
• Step 3: Bake to Perfection
• Step 4: Make the Ganache
• Step 5: Finish and Serve
• How to Serve Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
• Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
• Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce
• Add Whipped Cream
• Serve with Fresh Berries
• Include Nuts or Toffee Bits
• How to Perfect Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
• Reheating Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use homemade caramel sauce for this recipe?
• How do I make my Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe gluten-free?
• Can I double the recipe?
• What toppings go well with Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and caramel creates a rich, indulgent taste that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or cozy nights in. Serve warm with ice cream or let it cool for a more cake-like texture.
• Easily Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or chocolate shavings to make it your own.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 12 generous servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that the batter is smooth and well-blended.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even baking and easy serving of your dump cake.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for heating cream to make the ganache without burning.

Ingredients

This dessert combines layers of rich chocolate cake, buttery caramel, and a luscious ganache topping. Its simple assembly makes it great for sharing at gatherings or as a delightful treat at home.

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

How to Make Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chocolate cake mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, baking powder, and sour cream until smooth.

Step 2: Layer the Caramel

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave. Drizzle it evenly over the batter. Gently spoon the remaining batter over the caramel layer and spread lightly to cover.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Step 4: Make the Ganache

While the cake bakes, heat heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling. Add chocolate chunks and let them sit for one minute before stirring until smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

After removing from the oven, let your cake cool for about ten minutes. Pour warm ganache over the top and spread evenly. If desired, add chocolate shavings or chopped nuts as toppings. Allow ganache to set for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy this delectable Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe that everyone will love!

How to Serve Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a cozy night at home. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake experience.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate and caramel flavors beautifully.

Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce

• For those who love caramel, an extra drizzle on top adds sweetness and enhances the dessert’s appeal.

Add Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream provides a nice contrast to the dense cake, making each bite irresistible.

Serve with Fresh Berries

• Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a fresh note that balances the richness of the cake.

Include Nuts or Toffee Bits

• Sprinkling chopped nuts or toffee bits on top adds crunch and an extra layer of flavor to every slice.

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How to Perfect Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake, consider these simple tips to enhance your baking process.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. Incorrect temps can affect bake time.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps set the ganache and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like sea salt for a sweet-salty twist or flavored whipped cream.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the flavors in your dump cake while adding elegance.
3. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee enhances chocolate flavors while providing a delightful caffeine kick.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy texture that pairs nicely with chocolate and caramel.
5. Nutty Granola Parfaits: Layering granola with yogurt and fruit creates a crunchy, creamy complement to your dessert.
6. Homemade Brownies: For true chocolate lovers, serving brownies brings an extra dose of decadence alongside your dump cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the greasing step: Failing to grease your baking dish can result in a cake that sticks. Always use butter or non-stick spray for easy removal.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold eggs or milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Let them sit at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine just until the ingredients are incorporated for a light texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake. Check for doneness with a toothpick instead of relying solely on the timer.
• Rushing the ganache: If you don’t let the ganache sit before stirring, it may not achieve that glossy finish. Give it a moment to melt properly for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chocolate caramel dump cake in an airtight container.
• It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about the Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce for this recipe?

Yes, homemade caramel works wonderfully! Just ensure it’s not too thick so it spreads easily.

How do I make my Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe gluten-free?

To make this dessert gluten-free, substitute the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free variety available at most grocery stores.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan; just adjust your baking time accordingly.

What toppings go well with Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake?

You can add chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or even fresh fruit like strawberries for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe is not just delightful but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at gatherings or enjoying it as an after-dinner treat, this dessert is sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or experiment with different flavors!