When I need a dessert I can set up early and forget about until later, this simple slow cooker treat is one of those back-pocket recipes I come back to. With only four ingredients, it turns into a warm, golden-brown jammy pudding-cake style dessert with crisp edges, a soft center, and bright pockets of fruit that make it feel a little nostalgic and a little special at the same time.
Serve it warm straight from the slow cooker with vanilla ice cream, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt if you want less sweetness. It also goes really well with hot coffee or tea, and for a brunchy dessert table, I like adding fresh berries on the side to echo the jammy flavor.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Sister's Day Golden-Brown Mass
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix, about 15.25 ounces
Directions
1. Lightly grease the insert of a slow cooker. In a large bowl, stir together the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until a thick batter forms.
2. Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared slow cooker. Spoon the jam over the top in small pools, then dollop the remaining batter over the jam.
3. Cover and cook on Low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the top is set and golden-brown around the edges with jam bubbling through in spots.
4. Turn off the slow cooker and let the dessert rest for 10 to 15 minutes before scooping and serving warm.
Variations & Tips
Swap the jam: Raspberry gives the bold magenta look, but strawberry, blackberry, or cherry preserves also work well. Just choose a thicker jam so it stays in pockets instead of disappearing into the batter.
Check early: Slow cookers run differently, so I start checking around the 2-hour mark. You want the center mostly set and the edges deeply golden without letting the bottom overcook.
Make cleanup easier: A light coating of butter or nonstick spray in the slow cooker insert makes serving much simpler. If your slow cooker tends to run hot, you can also line it with a parchment sling for easier lifting and scooping.
Dress it up: If you want it to feel a little more dessert-table worthy, add a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving or a spoonful of whipped cream. It still keeps the easy weeknight vibe, but looks a little more finished.
