Are you craving a decadent dessert but short on time and baking skills? Then look no further! This peanut butter dump cake recipe is the ultimate answer for those busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, yet delivers a rich, gooey, and utterly satisfying treat that will impress everyone. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, busy families, and anyone who appreciates a truly delicious, homemade dessert without the fuss. Get ready to experience the joy of simple, satisfying cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Making the Cake:
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, peanut butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. You can use a whisk or a wooden spoon; no need for an electric mixer here!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- If using, sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top. This adds a delightful crunch and extra peanut butter flavor.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from crumbling.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance (optional).
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Peanut Butter Dump Cake:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Peanut Butter Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of peanut butter, such as crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Chocolate chips, pretzels, or even a swirl of caramel sauce would be delicious additions.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
This easy peanut butter dump cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth. The delicious combination of moist cake and creamy peanut butter is irresistible, and the simple preparation makes it an ideal choice for any skill level. Enjoy!