Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake with Ganache and Toppings Recipe
This decadent Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake combines rich chocolate cake layers with luscious caramel sauce and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly moist and indulgent, this easy-to-make dessert is baked in one dish and finished with optional chocolate shavings or nuts for a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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 mixing bowl, whisk together the chocolate cake mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, baking powder, and sour cream until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Layer the Caramel: Pour half of the prepared cake batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Slightly warm the caramel sauce to make it easier to drizzle, then drizzle it evenly over the batter layer. Gently spoon the remaining batter over the caramel sauce, spreading it lightly to cover as much as possible.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Make the Ganache: While the cake is baking, heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks or chips to the hot cream and let it sit for 1 minute. Stir the mixture until the ganache is smooth, glossy, and fully combined.
- Finish and Serve: When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Pour the warm ganache evenly over the top of the cake and spread it gently. Add optional chocolate shavings or chopped nuts/toffee bits as desired. Let the ganache set for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving to enjoy the perfect texture.
Notes
- You can substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a more personalized flavor.
- Ensure the ganache does not overheat or it may seize; heat cream just until hot.
- For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and butter alternatives and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- This cake keeps well covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Warming the caramel slightly makes it easier to drizzle evenly over the batter.
Keywords: chocolate caramel dump cake, easy dessert, chocolate cake, caramel dessert, ganache topping, layered cake, one dish cake
