Easy Oreo Dump Cake Recipe

There’s something special about combining classic cookies with chocolate cake and creamy layers. This easy Oreo dump cake recipe turns a few pantry staples into a decadent dessert that’s rich, gooey, and satisfying. The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity—you just layer, bake, and serve. No mixer, no bowls, no stress. Each bite offers the familiar crunch of Oreos, a smooth layer of condensed milk caramel, and a brownie-like topping that feels indulgent yet easy to make. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert that fits perfectly for weeknights, potlucks, or any time you crave something sweet without spending hours baking.

Why This Recipe Works

A quick way to homemade flavor

This recipe proves that even the most decadent desserts can be simple. It combines five affordable ingredients that work together to create a multi-textured masterpiece. The Oreo cookies form a crust, the condensed milk melts into a caramel-like base, and the Cool Whip adds moisture and creaminess. The chocolate cake mix and butter bake into a soft, fudgy layer that feels like a mix between cake and brownies. You get a bakery-quality dessert straight from your oven with almost no prep time.

A favorite for busy dessert lovers

You don’t need any baking experience to get this cake right. With only one pan and minimal cleanup, it’s ideal for busy families or last-minute dessert plans. The recipe is so simple that kids can help layer the ingredients. It’s also versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Whether you serve it for a birthday, Sunday dinner, or a cozy night in, this Oreo dump cake always delivers comfort and sweetness in every slice.

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Ingredients and Substitutions

What you need

To make this delicious Oreo dump cake, gather these simple ingredients:

• 28 Oreo cookies
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip
• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 1/2 sticks butter (3/4 cup total)

Each ingredient has a purpose. The Oreos give crunch and chocolate flavor. The condensed milk caramelizes as it bakes. The Cool Whip keeps the layers soft and creamy, while the cake mix and butter combine to form a brownie-like crust on top.

Simple swaps and additions

You can easily switch up this recipe. Try using Golden Oreos for a vanilla version or double-stuffed Oreos for an even richer taste. Swap the chocolate cake mix for red velvet to make a Valentine’s Day twist, or use devil’s food cake mix for an extra-dark chocolate flavor. Sprinkle chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or crushed toffee bits between layers for added decadence. You can even drizzle a little caramel or chocolate syrup over the baked cake before serving for that final touch.

How to Make Oreo Dump Cake

Preparing your pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Spread a single layer of Oreo cookies on the bottom. Don’t crush them—the whole cookies form the base that will soften into a chewy, chocolaty crust during baking.

Layering the ingredients

Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the Oreos. Use a spatula to spread the Cool Whip on top of that layer. It might look unusual to bake Cool Whip, but it melts beautifully and keeps the cake moist. Next, sprinkle the chocolate cake mix evenly over the top. If there are lumps, gently break them apart with a fork. Finally, slice the butter and place it evenly over the surface, covering as much area as possible. This ensures even baking and prevents dry spots.

Baking and Serving

Bake to perfection

Bake the Oreo dump cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are bubbling. The butter will melt through the cake mix, creating a rich, fudgy topping. The Oreos on the bottom turn soft and chewy, while the condensed milk transforms into a caramel-like layer. Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers can firm up slightly without losing their gooey charm.

How to serve it

Serve the cake warm in bowls or squares. Top each portion with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of hot fudge for a dessert that feels indulgent yet effortless. The texture is best right after baking, when the center is still soft and melty. For an extra treat, sprinkle crushed Oreos on top before serving. If you’re hosting guests, this cake looks beautiful right out of the baking dish, rustic and inviting without any need for fancy presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake

Even butter coverage

Butter distribution is key to getting that perfect texture. Make sure your butter slices are spread evenly across the cake mix. If you notice any dry areas after baking, you can spritz them lightly with water or drizzle a touch of melted butter over them while the cake is still hot. This step ensures every bite is soft, rich, and moist.

Avoid overmixing

The magic of a dump cake comes from the layers staying separate. Resist the temptation to stir. Mixing the ingredients will ruin the unique texture that makes dump cakes so special. Simply layer and bake—the oven will take care of the rest. The end result is a dessert that’s part cake, part fudge, and all deliciousness.

Flavor Variations

Creative mix-ins

There’s no limit to how creative you can get with this recipe. Add peanut butter cups, M&M’s, or crushed pretzels between the layers for extra crunch. For a festive touch, mix in red and green sprinkles during the holidays or use seasonal Oreo flavors like peppermint or pumpkin spice. You can also add a swirl of Nutella or cookie butter for an irresistible twist.

Similar easy dessert ideas

If you love rich, layered desserts like this, try the Easy Triple Berry Dump Cake. It follows the same simple layering process but swaps chocolate for a sweet-tart fruit flavor. Both recipes show how versatile dump cakes can be, offering something for chocolate lovers and fruit fans alike.

Serving and Storage

How to enjoy it later

This cake tastes amazing warm, but it also holds up well for a few days. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The caramel layer will firm up slightly when chilled, giving the dessert a chewy brownie-like texture. When ready to eat, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to bring back the gooey consistency.

Freezing and reheating

You can freeze this cake for up to two months. Slice it into portions, wrap tightly, and store in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This makes it perfect for meal prepping desserts or keeping a sweet treat on hand for unexpected guests.

FAQ

Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just let it cool completely and store it covered at room temperature. Warm it in the oven before serving to revive that soft texture.

Can I use a different type of whipped topping?
Yes. You can use homemade whipped cream or another whipped topping brand. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape during layering.

Can I use store-brand sandwich cookies instead of Oreos?
Absolutely. Store-brand cookies work just as well, especially if you want to save money. The texture and flavor remain delicious.

Conclusion

This Easy Oreo Dump Cake Recipe combines everything people love about Oreos and chocolate cake in one easy dessert. It’s indulgent, gooey, and incredibly simple to make. With just five ingredients and one pan, you can serve a dessert that tastes like it took hours to bake. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or just treating yourself, every bite offers a mix of soft cake, melted caramel, and creamy sweetness. Keep this recipe handy for when you need a crowd-pleasing dessert that never fails to impress and always satisfies that chocolate craving.