Description
This decadent Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake is a luscious layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake batter combined with gooey caramel sauce, baked to perfection and topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, it’s perfect for special occasions or indulgent gatherings.
Ingredients
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
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate cake mix, eggs, whole milk, melted butter, baking powder, and sour cream until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Layer the Caramel: Pour half of the chocolate batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Warm the caramel sauce slightly to make it more pourable, then drizzle it evenly over the batter layer. Carefully spoon the remaining batter on top, spreading gently to cover the caramel layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Make the Ganache: While the cake bakes, heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks to the cream and let sit for one minute. Then stir the mixture until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Finish and Serve: Allow the baked cake to cool for 10 minutes. Pour the warm chocolate ganache evenly over the cake’s surface. If desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or toffee bits on top. Let the ganache set for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to warm the caramel slightly to ensure it spreads easily over the cake batter without mixing in too much.
- Do not overbake; the cake should remain moist with a tender crumb.
- Ganache topping can be prepared on the stovetop by gently heating cream and pouring over chocolate, if preferred.
- Optional toppings add texture and extra flavor but are not necessary.
- This recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
