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Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 41 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This decadent Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake combines rich chocolate cake with a luscious caramel layer and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Easy to prepare by layering cake batter and caramel sauce before baking, it delivers a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.


Ingredients

Scale

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


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 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.
  2. Layer the Caramel: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Warm the caramel sauce slightly, then drizzle it evenly over the batter. Gently spoon the remaining batter over the caramel, spreading it lightly to cover.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  4. Make the Ganache: While the cake is baking, heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling. Add the chocolate chunks and let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
  5. Finish and Serve: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes. Pour the warm ganache over the top and spread evenly. Add chocolate shavings or chopped nuts if desired. Let the ganache set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For extra texture, add chopped nuts or toffee bits over the caramel layer before adding the remaining cake mix.
  • Make sure the caramel sauce is warm to help it drizzle smoothly over the batter.
  • Allow the ganache to set properly for a glossy, firm topping.
  • You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor.
  • Use a toothpick test to check the doneness of the cake to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg