Rich, gooey, and over-the-top indulgent—this Death by Chocolate Peanut Butter Dump Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. With layers of peanut butter cake, melty chocolate chips, and optional gooey toppings, it’s the ultimate no-fuss dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ridiculously easy to make – just mix, dump, and bake

• Gooey, fudgy texture with rich peanut butter and chocolate

• Customizable toppings like peanuts or marshmallows

• Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or chocoholic cravings

• No fancy tools needed—just a bowl, spoon, and baking dish

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1 cup milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional)

• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yields: 12 servings

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Add Butter

Mix in the melted butter until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk, add eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter becomes smooth and thick.

Step 6: Pour & Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Add the Toppings

Remove the cake from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. Follow with peanuts and marshmallows if using.

Step 8: Bake Again

Return the cake to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just until the chocolate chips have melted and the marshmallows are golden and puffed.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best gooey texture.

Tips & Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the peanuts or use chopped pretzels for crunch.

• Extra Fudgy: Add ½ cup of chocolate chunks into the batter before baking.

• S’mores Twist: Add crushed graham crackers with the marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired version.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, it will add extra texture and small peanut pieces throughout the cake.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can bake the cake a day in advance, but for best texture, add toppings and reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
You can skip them or tear regular-sized marshmallows into smaller pieces.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Death by Chocolate Peanut Butter Dump Cake is the kind of decadent, comforting dessert that wins hearts at every gathering. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or sneak a piece cold from the fridge, this cake delivers intense chocolate-peanut butter flavor with minimal effort. Keep this recipe in your back pocket for when you need a truly satisfying dessert—fast.