This 4-ingredient slow cooker summer bake is the kind of low-effort dessert that earns a place at backyard gatherings because it can be assembled well before guests arrive and left to do its thing while you handle the rest of the meal. The rich dark base and sticky pale ribbons create a fudgy, candy-like spoon dessert with a homemade potluck feel, and the slow cooker is especially handy in warm weather when you do not want to heat up the kitchen with a full-size oven.
Serve this warm in small bowls since it is quite rich, with vanilla ice cream, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or fresh berries to balance the deep sweetness. For a casual summer spread, it also fits nicely alongside iced coffee, cold milk, or a simple tray of sliced peaches and cherries, especially if you are putting it out near the end of a cookout or holiday gathering.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Summer Mahogany and Nougat Bake
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 box chocolate cake mix, about 15.25 ounces
1 can sweetened condensed milk, 14 ounces
1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
2 cups mini marshmallows
Directions
1. Lightly grease the insert of a slow cooker. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the chocolate cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate hazelnut spread until you have a thick, glossy batter.
2. Spread half of the batter into the slow cooker. Scatter the mini marshmallows evenly over the top, then spoon the remaining batter over them in rough dollops. Do not worry if some marshmallows peek through.
3. Cover and cook on Low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the edges are set and the center is soft, glossy, and streaked with melted marshmallow ribbons.
4. Turn off the heat and let the bake rest uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes so it firms slightly. Scoop into bowls and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For a deeper chocolate flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder if you like, even though the dessert works perfectly as written with four main ingredients. It will not make the bake taste like coffee, but it will round out the dark cocoa notes.
For easier scooping: Line the slow cooker insert with a parchment sling if your model allows for safe use, or grease it generously. Because of the condensed milk and melted marshmallows, this dessert sets up sticky and candy-like around the edges.
For texture contrast: Top each serving with chopped toasted pecans, salted peanuts, or crushed graham crackers just before serving. A little crunch helps balance the soft, gooey interior.
For timing and doneness: Slow cookers vary quite a bit, so begin checking at the 2 1/2-hour mark. You want a set rim and a soft center rather than a fully dry cake, since the appeal here is that molten, fudgy texture with pale ribbons running through it.