Crockpot Chocolate Lava Cake

Craving an indulgent chocolate treat that practically makes itself? Look no further. This crockpot chocolate lava cake is the answer to your dessert dreams. Get ready to savor layers of rich cake, creamy pudding, and gooey chocolate in every spoonful.

Looking for more?

Try my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Elegance: With minimal hands-on time, this recipe effortlessly yields a sophisticated dessert that impresses without the fuss, making it perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself.
• Irresistible Layers: The combination of moist chocolate cake, velvety pudding, and molten chocolate creates a symphony of textures and flavors that chocolate enthusiasts won't be able to resist.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Utilizing a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day while the magic happens, resulting in a delectable chocolate lava cake ready to be devoured.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card. 

• Chocolate Cake Mix - Forms the base of the cake layer, providing a convenient and consistent chocolate flavor. You can also use a homemade chocolate cake batter for a more personalized touch.
• Milk - Adds moisture to the cake and pudding layers, ensuring a tender texture. Substitute with dairy-free alternatives like almond or soy milk if needed.
• Vegetable Oil - Enhances the cake's moistness and aids in its rich texture. Swap with melted butter or applesauce for potential variations.
• Eggs - Bind the cake together and contribute to its structure. Explore egg substitutes like mashed bananas, yogurt, or flax eggs for a vegetarian option.
• Chocolate Pudding Mix - Introduces a luscious layer of chocolate pudding that complements the cake. You can also prepare chocolate pudding from scratch if desired.
• Chocolate Frosting - Creates a decadent sauce that adds depth to the dessert. Experiment with caramel or butterscotch sauce as alternatives.
• Milk Chocolate Chips - Provide bursts of chocolate intensity within each bite. Opt for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for different flavor profiles.

Equipment Needed

• Slow Cooker: The main cooking appliance used to prepare the chocolate lava cake.
• Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the dessert.
• Large Bowl: For mixing the cake batter and pudding.
• Handheld or Stand Mixer: To ensure smooth and well-mixed cake batter.
• Medium Bowl: For mixing the pudding.
• Microwave: To melt the chocolate frosting for easy pouring.
• Spoon or Spatula: For spreading and smoothing the cake batter and pudding layers.
• Knife: To test the doneness of the cake.
• Serving Dishes: To present and serve the finished dessert.
• Optional: Vanilla Ice Cream: For serving alongside the warm chocolate lava cake.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card. 

To create the mouthwatering Crockpot Chocolate Lava Cake, begin by coating the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs, using a handheld or stand mixer to achieve a smooth consistency. Pour the cake batter evenly into the slow cooker's base.

In a separate medium bowl, follow the instructions on the chocolate pudding mix, mixing it with milk to create a velvety pudding mixture. Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the cake batter, allowing the layers to meld together.

For an extra layer of decadence, microwave the chocolate frosting for 10-15 seconds until it's easily pourable, then evenly drizzle it over the pudding layer. Sprinkle a generous handful of milk chocolate chips on top, infusing the dessert with bursts of rich chocolate flavor.

Place the slow cooker's lid securely and choose your cooking method. Cook on high for 3 to 3 ½ hours (Check at about 2 hours to make sure it's not burned,) or opt for a low and slow approach (recommended,) cooking for 4 to 5 hours (check at 3 hours to make sure it's not burning.) Test the cake's readiness by inserting a knife into the cake layer; it should come out clean, without reaching the pudding layer beneath. Once done, serve the chocolate lava cake while it's still warm, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. For an irresistible finishing touch, scoop a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, complementing the rich chocolate with a creamy contrast. This delectable dessert promises layers of satisfaction, each bite delivering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Variations

• Fruity Twist: Add a layer of sliced strawberries, bananas, or raspberries between the cake and pudding layers for a refreshing burst of fruitiness.
• Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the chocolate cake batter for added texture and flavor.
• Minty Infusion: Infuse the pudding with a hint of mint extract or add crushed mint candies to the chocolate cake mix for a delightful mint-chocolate combination.
• Salted Caramel Drizzle: Substitute the chocolate frosting with warm salted caramel sauce, creating a sweet-savory contrast that enhances the chocolate's richness.
• White Chocolate Variation: Replace the milk chocolate chips with white chocolate chips, offering a creamy and sweeter alternative to the classic recipe.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to create a delicious dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Delight: Utilize plant-based alternatives such as vegan chocolate cake mix, non-dairy milk, and egg replacements to craft a vegan-friendly version of this treat.
• Coffee Infusion: Introduce a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the cake batter for a subtle coffee undertone that complements the chocolate.
• Dark Chocolate Indulgence: Use dark chocolate cake mix and dark chocolate chips for an intense, less-sweet chocolate experience.
• Berries and Cream: Serve the warm chocolate lava cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of fresh berries for a balanced and vibrant presentation.

Wine Pairing

For this decadent Crockpot Chocolate Lava Cake, a suitable wine pairing would be a rich and sweet dessert wine. A late-harvest Zinfandel, a Ruby Port, or a Moscato d'Asti are excellent choices. These wines possess the necessary sweetness and fruity notes to complement the chocolate flavors and provide a delightful contrast. Their complex profiles and balanced sweetness will harmonize with the dessert's layers, enhancing the overall dining experience.

FAQ's

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests a chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like devil's food, fudge, or even a chocolate-caramel blend for unique variations.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can use dairy-free milk alternatives such as almond, soy, or oat milk in both the cake batter and pudding. Ensure your chocolate chips and cake mix are also dairy-free if needed.

Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?

Certainly, you can try using alternatives like applesauce, mashed bananas, yogurt, or commercial egg replacers for a vegetarian-friendly version. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely, opt for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and verify that all other ingredients, such as pudding mix and chocolate chips, are also gluten-free to create a delicious gluten-free dessert.

What's the best way to check if the cake is cooked in the center?

Insert a knife into the middle of the cake layer. It should come out clean without touching the pudding layer underneath, indicating that the cake is cooked.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

While the cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can partially prepare it by mixing the cake batter and pudding in advance. Assemble the layers and cook when you're ready to serve.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of a mix?

Certainly, feel free to substitute the chocolate pudding mix with your homemade chocolate pudding. Just ensure it's a similar consistency to maintain the layering effect.

What's the best way to serve this dessert?

Serve the chocolate lava cake warm from the slow cooker. Top it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries to enhance the flavors and textures.

Can I adjust the cooking time for my slow cooker?

Yes, slow cookers can vary in cooking times. Keep an eye on the cake's progress and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired doneness.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftover cake portions. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.

Tips

• Prepare the Slow Cooker: Make sure to generously coat the interior of the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ease the cake's removal after cooking.
• Layering Order: Follow the layering sequence carefully: cake batter, pudding mixture, chocolate frosting, and chocolate chips. This order ensures a balanced distribution of flavors and textures.
• Smooth Batter: Use a handheld or stand mixer to ensure a smooth and well-mixed cake batter. This prevents lumps and guarantees a consistent texture.
• Proper Pudding Mixing: When preparing the chocolate pudding mix, follow the package instructions precisely to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
• Mind the Frosting: Microwave the chocolate frosting briefly until it's pourable but not overly runny. This helps it spread evenly over the pudding layer.
• Test Doneness Carefully: To check if the cake is done, insert a knife into the cake layer only, avoiding the pudding. The knife should come out clean, indicating thorough cooking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Slow cooker cooking times can vary. Monitor the cake's progress, and adjust the cooking time if necessary to achieve the desired level of doneness.
• Serve Warm: This dessert is best enjoyed while still warm from the slow cooker. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream enhances the experience.
• Presentation: Consider serving the cake directly from the slow cooker or gently transferring individual portions onto serving plates for an inviting presentation.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with variations such as adding fruits, nuts, or different types of chocolate for a personalized touch.
• Portion Control: The richness of this dessert means a little goes a long way. Serve smaller portions, especially if it's accompanied by ice cream or other toppings.

Looking for more recipes?

Try these other delicious desserts! Peach Cobbler with Cake Mix, Crockpot Apple Crisp, and Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.

Did You Make this Recipe?

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Recipe Card

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