Chocolate Dump Cake: A Decadent, Gooey Dessert That Practically Makes Itself

Some desserts feel too easy to be true — and this chocolate dump cake is one of them. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a rich, fudgy, gooey cake that tastes like something you’d order in a restaurant. It’s warm, indulgent, and best served with a scoop of ice cream melting over the top.

The beauty of a dump cake is in its simplicity: no fancy techniques, no extra bowls, just dump, stir, bake, and enjoy. This version doubles down on chocolate flavor with devil’s food cake mix, instant chocolate pudding, and chocolate chips. The result? A dessert that’s somewhere between a cake and a molten brownie, guaranteed to make chocolate lovers swoon.

Why This Recipe Is My Favorite

This dessert is my favorite because it’s impossible to mess up. It always turns out fudgy, gooey, and rich, with pockets of melted chocolate chips scattered throughout. It’s the kind of recipe I turn to when I need a crowd-pleasing dessert fast — whether it’s for family, friends, or just to satisfy a late-night chocolate craving.

What I especially love is how it’s both rustic and elegant. Serve it in big scoops straight from the pan for a cozy family-style dessert, or dress it up with whipped cream, berries, and ice cream for a dinner party-worthy finish.

History and Fun Facts About Dump Cakes

Dump cakes first became popular in the 1960s, when boxed cake mixes were a pantry staple in many American households. The name comes from the method — you “dump” all the ingredients into the pan, mix them lightly, and bake.

Originally made with fruit fillings and yellow cake mix, dump cakes have evolved into endless variations, including this indulgent chocolate version. The use of pudding mix is a modern twist that keeps the cake extra moist and fudgy, bridging the gap between a cake and a molten dessert.

The Role of Each Ingredient

• Devil’s food cake mix forms the base of the dessert, delivering deep chocolate flavor and a soft cake texture.

• Instant chocolate pudding mix adds moisture, richness, and that signature gooey consistency.

• Whole milk keeps the cake tender and helps activate the pudding mix.

• Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture, giving the cake a slightly fudgy bite.

• Chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets throughout the cake, creating bursts of chocolate in every bite.

Substitution Tips and Advice

You can use semisweet or dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate if you prefer less sweetness. Swap whole milk for half-and-half for an even richer cake.

For a flavor twist, try using white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips on top. You can also add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dry mix for a mocha-like flavor that enhances the chocolate.

Time and Money-Saving Tips

Since everything mixes right in the baking pan, you don’t need extra bowls — which means fewer dishes. Use store-brand cake mix and pudding mix to keep costs down. 

For entertaining, keep all the ingredients on hand so you can whip up dessert in under an hour with almost no prep time.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to bring back the gooey texture.

Freezing: Freeze cooled cake in airtight containers or tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving.

Make Ahead: Bake the cake up to a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then reheat before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with toppings like ice cream or whipped cream.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking pan for baking the cake

• Measuring cups for milk and butter

• Measuring spoons for pudding mix

• Mixing spoon or spatula for stirring in the pan

• Nonstick cooking spray for prepping the pan

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This cake is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast to the rich chocolate.

For drinks, pair it with cold milk, hot coffee, or even a glass of red wine for a decadent finish to dinner.