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Death By Chocolate Slow Cooker Lava Cake is the decadent answer to feeding a crowd when time or oven space is tight. Thanks to the secret addition of canned frosting and a generous package of instant pudding, this cake comes out gooey and rich every time. If you have ever thought slow cooker chocolate lava cakes taste bland or are too dry, you need to try this version. It is pure chocolate joy in a bowl and perfect for sinking a scoop of ice cream on top while everyone gathers around for seconds.
I first made this when my house was full after a holiday dinner and every guest ended up scraping their bowls clean it was that big of a hit.
Ingredients
- Chocolate cake mix: look for a mix intended for two layers as it will fill the slow cooker and give a soft texture
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: go for the larger size box for extra fudge factor
- Chocolate fudge frosting: canned frosting melts into the cake and creates the lava like middle pick a high cocoa content brand if possible for best flavor
- Eggs: select large eggs at room temperature so your batter blends evenly
- Vegetable oil: use a fresh neutral oil for a moist crumb
- Milk: whole milk adds richness and ensures the lava stays creamy
- Optional add ins: try mini chocolate chips for extra bursts of chocolate or a pinch of instant espresso powder to deepen flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl stir together the cake mix eggs oil and milk until just blended Overmixing can make your cake tough so stop when you see only a few streaks
- Add the Pudding Layer:
- Sprinkle the dry pudding mix evenly over your cake batter in the slow cooker Gently swirl the pudding in with a butter knife but do not fully combine this is what creates the pockets of gooey chocolate
- Spoon in the Frosting:
- Dollop the canned chocolate frosting in spoonfuls over the surface of the batter Distribute them as evenly as you can so every scoop will get a molten chocolate surprise
- Slow Cook to Fudgy Perfection:
- Place the lid on your slow cooker and cook on high for three hours Check around the edges at the two and a half hour mark as slow cookers can run hot The outside should be set but the middle will be soft and lava like
- Serve Warm with Ice Cream:
- Turn off the heat and let the cake settle for five minutes before scooping Serve big spoonfuls topped with vanilla ice cream for the full lava cake experience
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The hidden star of this cake is the canned chocolate frosting It sounds odd but creates a fudgy layer that makes every bite oozy and decadent My kids now ask for lava cake every time there is a celebration or sleepover
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days Spoon into bowls and microwave in ten second bursts until heated through The fudgy texture actually improves by day two
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any brand of chocolate cake mix or even a gluten free version if needed Try swapping the instant chocolate pudding for a caramel or mocha pudding for a twist If you only have chocolate chips swirl a generous handful on top with the frosting
Serving Suggestions
Always serve this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream That cold creamy contrast really brings out the chocolate lava Some like to sprinkle with extra chopped chocolate or drizzle caramel sauce on top
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Cultural Context
Lava cake started as a fine dining dessert but this recipe brings it to the comfort of your own kitchen using a slow cooker and pantry staples It is a true North American potluck favorite now appearing everywhere from family reunions to holiday potlucks
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the edges from overbaking in the slow cooker?
Monitor the cooking time closely and rotate the insert if your slow cooker runs hot on the sides. Cooking on high for three hours helps balance the gooey center with a set edge.
- → Can I use homemade cake mix instead of a packaged one?
Yes, a homemade chocolate cake batter may be substituted in equal measure, ensuring similar consistency for the molten center.
- → What's the best way to serve this dessert?
Scoop it straight from the slow cooker while warm and top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- → Why add a whole can of icing?
The icing creates extra moisture and intensifies the chocolate flavor, helping achieve that signature molten, gooey texture in the middle.
- → How many people does this dessert serve?
This rich chocolate dessert comfortably serves 10 or more, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
- → Can I cook it on the low setting?
Yes, cooking on low will work, but expect the process to take around 4-5 hours. The results remain tender and decadent.