Description
This Crockpot Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent, gooey dessert that’s effortlessly made in a slow cooker. Its rich chocolate layers create a molten lava effect, making it perfect for warming up any occasion with minimal fuss. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for topping)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups hot water
Optional
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly for an even distribution.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir until you achieve a smooth batter, then pour this batter evenly into the greased crockpot.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar and the remaining 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the crockpot.
- Add Hot Water: Carefully pour 1 3/4 cups of hot water over the top of the sugar and cocoa powder layer without stirring to create the lava effect during cooking.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on the high setting for 2 to 2.5 hours. The cake is done when the top is set but still slightly gooey, ensuring the lava center.
- Cool and Serve: Turn off the crockpot and let the cake cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve warm with optional vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful finish.
Notes
- Do not stir after pouring hot water to maintain the lava cake’s layered effect.
- Cooking time may vary depending on your crockpot’s model and heat settings.
- For a richer flavor, use melted butter instead of vegetable oil.
- Serve warm immediately for the best gooey texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated, though texture may change.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
