German Chocolate Dump Cake is one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug—and I’m genuinely grateful you’re here to bake it with me today. 💛 Right after sharing so many classic, time-intensive cakes, I promised you something easier, more versatile, and anything but boring!! And friends, German Chocolate Dump Cake delivers on all fronts. It’s rich, gooey, chocolatey, and crowned with that unmistakable coconut-pecan topping we all adore, but made with almost zero fuss. No mixers, no layers, no stress—just dump, bake, and swoon.
If you love simple desserts that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen, you’re going to want this recipe in your back pocket forever.
German Chocolate Dump Cake Overview
This German Chocolate Dump Cake is a shortcut version of the classic cake, using pantry staples to create that iconic flavor profile with minimal effort. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, last-minute guests, or those nights when you just need dessert.
Reasons You’ll Love This German Chocolate Dump Cake
- No mixing bowls required—seriously!
- Only a handful of easy-to-find ingredients
- Rich chocolate base with gooey coconut-pecan topping
- Beginner-friendly and nearly foolproof
- Feeds a crowd with very little effort
What Does German Chocolate Dump Cake Taste Like?
Imagine a fudgy chocolate cake on the bottom, slightly molten in places, topped with buttery coconut, crunchy pecans, and sweet caramel-like notes from condensed milk. The contrast of textures is unreal—soft, gooey, crunchy, and chewy all in one bite. And the smell when this is in the oven? Incredible!!
Benefits of Making This Recipe
- Saves time without sacrificing flavor
- Budget-friendly dessert option
- Easily customizable
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Minimal cleanup (a win we all deserve!)
Ingredients for German Chocolate Dump Cake
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this indulgent dessert:
Main Ingredients
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup caramel bits or caramel sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt for balance
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy here:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven (of course!)
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- No German chocolate cake mix? Use chocolate fudge or devil’s food cake mix instead.
- Nut-free version: Skip the pecans or replace them with toasted oats.
- Extra indulgent: Add a layer of chocolate chunks or caramel sauce.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and coconut condensed milk alternatives.
How to Make German Chocolate Dump Cake Step by Step
This is where the magic happens—no mixing required!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Dump the Cake Mix
Evenly spread the dry German chocolate cake mix across the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Milks
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake mix, followed by the evaporated milk. Don’t stir!
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips evenly over the top.
Step 5: Drizzle the Butter
Slowly drizzle melted butter over everything, making sure as much surface area is covered as possible.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let it cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps it set just enough while staying deliciously gooey.
What to Serve with German Chocolate Dump Cake
This cake is amazing on its own, but even better with:
- Vanilla bean ice cream
- Fresh whipped cream
- A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
- Fresh berries for contrast
Tips for the Best German Chocolate Dump Cake
- Don’t mix the layers—dump cakes work best when layered
- Make sure butter is evenly distributed to avoid dry spots
- Use a glass baking dish for even baking
- Let it rest before serving for cleaner slices
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Cover and store for up to 24 hours
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating
General Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 12
German Chocolate Dump Cake FAQs
Can I make German Chocolate Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake it a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Why is my dump cake dry?
This usually means the butter wasn’t evenly distributed. Make sure to drizzle carefully.
Can I use homemade cake mix?
Absolutely, as long as it’s equivalent to a boxed mix in volume.
Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
It’s best to refrigerate due to the milk content.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes—use a larger pan and adjust baking time slightly.
Conclusion: Why You Need to Make German Chocolate Dump Cake
This German Chocolate Dump Cake is proof that incredible desserts don’t need complicated steps or endless ingredients. It’s cozy, indulgent, and ridiculously easy—perfect for busy days, celebrations, or when you just want something sweet without the hassle. I’m kicking myself for not having photographed every gooey spoonful because it disappears fast every single time!