Death by Chocolate Delight

This rich and indulgent Death by Chocolate Dump Cake delivers gooey chocolate layers, silky fudge, melted chips, and a cookie crunch that make every bite irresistibly decadent. It’s a perfect dessert for chocolate lovers looking for something simple yet impressive, requiring minimal effort but maximum chocolate satisfaction.

I first made this during a family game night, and it instantly became our go to dessert. Now everyone asks for it at birthdays and special occasions.

Ingredients

• Chocolate cake mix: the base that bakes into a moist, chocolatey foundation choose your favorite brand for best results
• Instant chocolate pudding mix: adds luscious gooeyness to the cake opt for a quality instant variety
• Whole milk: helps dissolve the pudding mix for a smooth texture whole milk gives the richest flavor
• Mini chocolate chips: add delightful melted pockets of chocolate throughout the cake fresh chips with no bloom taste best
• Hot fudge sauce: poured over the baked cake for gooey richness warming before using helps it seep perfectly into the cake holes
• Whipped cream or whipped topping: lightens the dense chocolate layers and adds creamy contrast
• Crushed Oreos or chocolate cookie crumbs: provide a crunchy, slightly bitter counterpoint use fresh cookies for best texture
• Optional extra chocolate chips and cookies: for garnish and extra texture these make the presentation even more mouthwatering

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius This temperature ensures the cake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture

Mix the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant chocolate pudding mix, and whole milk Stir thoroughly until everything is fully combined and smooth Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips so they are evenly distributed without breaking them up too much

Transfer Batter and Bake:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish well to prevent sticking Pour the batter into the dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula so that it forms a smooth surface Place in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached

Create Fudge Pockets:

Once baked, remove the cake and allow it to cool completely at room temperature Take the handle of a wooden spoon and poke evenly spaced holes all over the surface of the cake These holes will help the hot fudge soak in for that moist, gooey texture everyone loves

Pour Hot Fudge Sauce:

Warm the hot fudge sauce gently until it is pourable but not too thin Pour the warm fudge slowly over the surface of the cake, making sure it seeps well into the holes you created This step is crucial to achieve the signature fudgy layers

Add Whipped Topping and Crumbs:

Spread the whipped cream or whipped topping evenly over the cooled and fudged cake Sprinkle the crushed Oreos or chocolate cookie crumbs over the top to add a satisfying crunch You can add extra chocolate chips or cookie pieces for garnish if desired

Chill and Serve:

Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour This helps the layers set and melds the flavors together Serve the cake slices either chilled for a refreshing treat or warmed slightly if you prefer gooier chocolate

This cake became a family favorite the first time I made it I especially love how the hot fudge sinks into the holes, creating molten chocolate pockets Watching everyone dig in with smiles and chocolate smeared faces is the best part of making this dessert.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to four days Chilling helps preserve the texture and flavor You can also freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap whole milk for any milk you have on hand but whole milk gives the richest result For a deeper chocolate flavor, replace the milk with brewed coffee If you cannot find instant pudding mix, using an extra egg and a bit more milk can help maintain moisture though the texture will be different

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for extra indulgence A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the hot fudge can also elevate the chocolate notes It pairs well with fresh berries if you want a touch of tartness to cut the richness

This Death by Chocolate Dump Cake is a simple yet showstopping dessert that satisfies any chocolate craving. Serve chilled or slightly warmed for best results.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What ingredients create the gooey texture?

The instant chocolate pudding and melted mini chocolate chips combined with hot fudge sauce give this dessert its luscious, gooey texture.

→ Can I use a different milk for the batter?

Yes, whole milk is preferred for richness, but any milk, including dairy-free options, can be used with slight changes in texture.

→ How does chilling affect the dessert?

Chilling allows the layers to set firmly, intensifying flavors and improving the overall texture for a more satisfying bite.

→ What tools are needed for preparation?

A 9x13-inch baking dish, wooden spoon for poking holes, mixing bowls, and a spatula or whisk are recommended to prepare this dessert efficiently.

→ Are there alternatives for the cookie topping?

Crushed Oreos or chocolate cookie crumbs are suggested, but other chocolate or nut-based crumbs can be used for variation.

→ How can I intensify the chocolate flavor?

Substituting brewed coffee for milk in the batter enhances the chocolate depth without overpowering the dessert.