Introduction
Oh, the bliss of a warm and gooey chocolate lava cake! This delightful dessert is the epitome of indulgence with its rich, molten center that flows out with every spoonful. Perfectly paired with a scoop of creamy ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Best of all, it can be made effortlessly in a crockpot, letting you focus on what matters most—enjoying the sweet moments together!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, with no lumps.
- Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to ensure an easy release of the cake.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the bottom of the crockpot, spreading it evenly across the base.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of water until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the layer of cake batter in the crockpot, spreading it out gently.
- Top off with the remaining cake batter, smoothing it out so that it covers the pudding layer completely.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. The cake is done when the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, though it may still have a few moist crumbs.
- Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let the cake rest for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the lava filling to settle just a bit while keeping it warm.
- Scoop out portions and serve warm, drizzled with ice cream or topped with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Notes or Tips
For an added touch of flavor, consider folding in some chopped nuts or a swirl of peanut butter into the cake batter. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the finished cake for an irresistible sweet-and-salty combination!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the magic of slow cooking, which allows the ingredients to meld beautifully together. The crockpot creates a moist environment that ensures the cake remains tender while letting that luscious chocolate center develop. Remember, every crockpot is a little different, so keep an eye on your cake as it cooks to avoid overcooking!
FAQ
Can I use homemade chocolate cake and pudding?
No problem! You can definitely substitute homemade mixes for a burst of flavor, just keep the ratios the same.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply warm them up before serving to bring back that molten goodness.
Conclusion
Chocolate lava cake made in a crockpot is not just dessert; it’s an experience—the kind that brings smiles and melted hearts around the table. With each bite of rich chocolate and gooey center, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for more. So the next time you’re craving something sweet, gather the ingredients, fire up your crockpot, and let the magic happen. Enjoy every delicious moment!