As we dive into the bustling end-of-year activities for our oldest child, exhaustion creeps in. The final month of school is a whirlwind packed with spirit days, awards, ceremonies, recitals, competitions, and more. Amidst these events, holidays such as Mother’s Day and graduation parties add to the chaos!

With my time stretched thin, finding opportunities to test recipes or create special treats is challenging. Thankfully, a box of cake mix saves the day! Quick cupcakes or funfetti cookies are easy options, but I often turn to this super simple chocolate dump cake for a rich, chocolatey delight.

What is Chocolate Dump Cake?

Traditionally, dump cakes feature fruit and resemble cobblers or crumbles—think blueberry, cherry, or apple dump cakes. However, this chocolate version changes the game.

You still “dump” the ingredients directly into the baking pan—no mixing bowls needed—and let the oven work its magic. The result is a delectably rich, fudgy chocolate cake.

If you enjoy ultra-rich chocolate desserts as much as I do—like salted caramel brownies or easy s’mores brownies—you are in for a treat with this recipe.

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. Its simplicity makes it perfect for any weeknight, yet its decadent taste impresses guests every time.

How to Make This Chocolate Dump Cake

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this chocolate dump cake, you’ll need:

• 1 (15.25-ounce) box of Devil’s Food cake mix
• 1 (3.9-ounce) box of instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 (11.5-ounce) bag of milk or semisweet chocolate chips

When picking up your cake mix, ensure it’s a 15.25-ounce box. If you prefer, you can also use a homemade devil’s food cake mix.

For the richest flavor, I recommend using whole milk, but reduced-fat or non-dairy alternatives work as well. The chocolate chips on top add an extra layer of chocolatey goodness; feel free to use either milk chocolate or semisweet chips. For a twist, try adding white chocolate chips or even peanut butter chips!

Making This Simple Cake

First, lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Next, dump the cake mix and pudding mix into the pan, stirring to combine.

Pour the milk and melted butter over the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined with no dry powder visible. Spread the batter evenly in the pan.

Sprinkle chocolate chips on top, then bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, but I find it irresistible when it’s warm!