Crockpot Lava Cake is a true delight for chocolate lovers, bringing the rich, gooey decadence of a lava cake right into your home without the need for an oven. With its chocolatey layers and an irresistibly warm sauce, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Best of all, it’s made easily in your slow cooker, freeing you from constant monitoring. As you prepare this dessert, your house will fill with the comforting aroma of chocolate, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings, special celebrations, or simply a cozy night in.
Why We Love This Crockpot Lava Cake Recipe
There’s something special about a dessert that can melt your heart with its warm, chocolaty goodness. The Crockpot Lava Cake is not only easy to make, but it provides a delightful surprise at the center with its molten chocolate filling. This recipe is a favorite because it is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers. You can prepare it ahead of time and let your crockpot do the work while you focus on other activities. Plus, the combination of warm chocolate cake paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an unforgettable flavor experience. When you serve this lava cake, it’s bound to impress your guests, leaving them craving more.
Ingredients about Crockpot Lava Cake
To make this delightful dessert, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 box chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
By gathering these simple items, you’re well on your way to creating a deliciously gooey treat that everyone will love.
How to Make Crockpot Lava Cake Directions
Making Crockpot Lava Cake is a simple step-by-step process that leads to mouthwatering results. Here’s how you can create this dessert:
- Start by spraying your crockpot with non-stick spray. This step prevents the cake from sticking to the sides, ensuring that you can easily scoop out every delicious piece later.
- In a mixing bowl, take the chocolate cake mix and prepare the batter according to the package instructions. This usually involves adding water, eggs, and oil. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the crockpot, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and the two cups of milk. Mix until the pudding is smooth and free of lumps. The pudding mix will create that gooey center that makes this cake so special.
- Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the cake batter in the crockpot, ensuring it covers the batter evenly. You’ll see layers forming, and that’s what creates the lava effect when it cooks.
- Next, sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the pudding mixture. These chocolate chips will melt into the cake, adding an extra punch of chocolate flavor.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2-3 hours. Make sure to check it periodically. The cake should be set but still soft in the center, offering that signature lava effect.
- Once it’s done cooking, you’ll want to serve the cake warm. Scoop out portions while it’s still hot, making sure the molten center oozes out beautifully onto the plate.
How to Serve Crockpot Lava Cake
Serving your Crockpot Lava Cake is as delightful as making it. For each warm serving, place a generous scoop onto a dessert plate, allowing that molten chocolate to flow freely. The contrast of warm cake against a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream is divine. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the rich, gooey chocolate, creating a delicious mouthful that you’ll want to relish.
You can also get creative with your garnishes. Consider drizzling chocolate syrup on top or adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, can also add a bright color and flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake. Remember to serve it fresh out of the crockpot for the best experience!
Expert Tips: Crockpot Lava Cake
To elevate your Crockpot Lava Cake to the next level, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure to prepare your crockpot with non-stick spray thoroughly. This simple step will help you avoid any sticky situations when serving.
- For added flavor, consider mixing a teaspoon of espresso powder into the cake batter. This can enhance the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
- If you like a bit of texture, try mixing in chopped nuts or toffee bits with the chocolate chips. This will add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the cake’s softness.
- Avoid lifting the lid of the crockpot too often while it cooks, as it can let heat escape and affect the cooking time. Trust the cooking process and let it work its magic!
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Every crockpot is slightly different, so start checking for doneness around the 2-hour mark. You’re looking for a firm top with a slightly jiggly center.
How to Store Crockpot Lava Cake
If you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely with such a delicious treat!), storing your Crockpot Lava Cake is easy. Allow the lava cake to cool completely in the crockpot. Once cooled, cover it securely with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover cake, reheat it in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until it’s warm. Add a fresh scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it feel like a freshly made dessert again!
Variation of Crockpot Lava Cake
While the classic chocolate version is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser, there are several fun variations of Crockpot Lava Cake you can try:
- White Chocolate Lava Cake: Substitute the chocolate cake mix with a vanilla or white cake mix and use white chocolate pudding and chips. This creates a lighter, yet equally delicious dessert.
- Peanut Butter Lava Cake: Add a cup of peanut butter to your cake batter for an extra layer of flavor and richness. Use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate for the topping.
- Nutty Delight: Include some finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the cake batter. This will add both flavor and texture to your lava cake.
- Fruit-infused Lava Cake: Fold in some fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, into the cake batter for a fruity twist. It adds a pop of color and a touch of tanginess that balances the sweetness.
By experimenting with these variations, you can create endless opportunities for deliciousness with your Crockpot Lava Cake!
FAQ
What is Crockpot Lava Cake?
Crockpot Lava Cake is a warm dessert made in a slow cooker, featuring a rich chocolate cake with a gooey, molten center.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Lava Cake?
You should cook your Crockpot Lava Cake on low for 2-3 hours, checking periodically for doneness.
Can I make Crockpot Lava Cake ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter and pudding mixture ahead of time and combine them in the crockpot when you’re ready to cook.
What should I serve with Crockpot Lava Cake?
You should serve your Crockpot Lava Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, which complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.
How do I store leftover Crockpot Lava Cake?
Cool the cake completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving for the best taste!
Crockpot Lava Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix Follow package instructions for preparation.
- 1 cup chocolate chips For melting into the cake.
For the pudding layer
- 1 box chocolate pudding mix For the gooey center.
- 2 cups milk To mix with the pudding.
For serving
- as needed vanilla ice cream To serve on the side.
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray the crockpot with non-stick spray.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix batter according to package instructions and mix until smooth.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the crockpot, spreading evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of milk until smooth.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cake batter, ensuring it covers the batter evenly.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the pudding mixture.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid.
Cooking
- Set the crockpot to cook on low for 2-3 hours.
- Check periodically; the cake should be set but still soft in the center.
Serving
- Serve the cake warm, allowing the molten center to ooze onto the plate.
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Optional: drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar.
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