Chocolate Lava Cake in a Slow Cooker

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this slow cooker chocolate lava cake. This decadent dessert features a warm, fudgy exterior and a molten, gooey center that oozes with every spoonful. Perfect for cozy nights or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare and delivers pure bliss in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker chocolate lava cake is a game-changer for dessert lovers. It’s incredibly easy to make—no oven required—yet delivers a restaurant-quality treat that impresses every time. The contrast of the warm, fudgy cake with its molten chocolate center creates a heavenly texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe requires minimal prep and lets the slow cooker do all the work. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, you’ll love how foolproof and versatile this dessert is, pairing beautifully with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings joy with every decadent bite.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Enhance Flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor without a coffee taste.
  • Prevent Sticking: Greasing the slow cooker thoroughly ensures easy scooping and cleanup.
  • Check Doneness: The cake should be set on top but jiggly in the center for that perfect molten texture.
  • Serving Tip: Use a large spoon to scoop, ensuring you get both cake and gooey sauce in every serving.
  • Slow Cooker Variations: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker’s heat intensity, so check at the 2-hour mark.
Yield: Serves 6

Chocolate Lava Cake in a Slow Cooker

Chocolate Lava Cake in a Slow Cooker

Rich, gooey chocolate lava cake made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for indulgent desserts.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Additional Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups hot water
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, divided

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup milk, 1/3 cup melted butter, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Stir this into the dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for extra bursts of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
  5. Spread Batter: Pour the batter into the greased slow cooker, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
  6. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup brown sugar and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
  7. Add Hot Water: Carefully pour 1 1/2 cups hot water over the top. Do not stir—this creates the signature lava effect!
  8. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 2.5 hours, or until the cake is set on top but still gooey underneath.
  9. Cool Slightly: Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the molten center to settle slightly.
  10. Serve with Flair: Scoop warm portions into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an irresistible treat.

Notes

  • Check your slow cooker size; a 6-quart model works best for even cooking.
  • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.
  • The cake will look slightly underdone—that’s the lava magic!
  • Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1

Amount Per ServingCalories 526Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 12gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 29mgSodium 274mgCarbohydrates 86gFiber 3gSugar 64gProtein 5g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

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Ingredients Notes

  • Flour: All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for a tender cake. Sift it for a smoother batter.
  • Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa for a rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa adds depth.
  • Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips melt beautifully, creating the gooey center. Dark chocolate chips work for a less sweet option.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter ensures you control the saltiness. Melt it gently to avoid scorching.
  • Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but 2% or plant-based milk can be substituted for a lighter texture.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth to the molten sauce. Pack it firmly when measuring.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
  • Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Flavor Twists: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of orange zest to the batter for a unique flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Variations: Substitute semi-sweet chips with white chocolate or milk chocolate chips for a sweeter or creamier center.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Reduce granulated sugar to 1/2 cup and use a sugar substitute like erythritol for the topping.
  • Nutty Addition: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Storage Options

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to restore the gooey texture.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Serving Tip: Best enjoyed fresh, but reheated portions still retain their molten charm with a quick warm-up.

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