This ultra-simple slow cooker dessert is the kind of treat you make when you want something rich, gooey, and crowd-pleasing without hovering over the stove. Inspired by the classic flavors of s'mores, this version keeps things easy with just four ingredients and a slow, gentle cook that creates a dark, dense center with soft melted pockets throughout.
Serve generous spoonfuls warm with graham crackers for scooping, or add small bowls of vanilla ice cream, whipped topping, or fresh strawberries on the side to balance the richness. For family dessert night, I also like setting out extra mini marshmallows and broken chocolate sandwich cookies so everyone can dress up their own serving.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker National S'mores Day Obsidian Mass
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 box chocolate fudge cake mix, about 15.25 ounces
1 cup chocolate milk
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup milk chocolate chips
Directions
1. Lightly grease the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, stir together the chocolate cake mix and chocolate milk until no dry streaks remain.
2. Fold in 1 cup of the mini marshmallows and all of the chocolate chips, then spread the mixture evenly in the prepared slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mini marshmallows over the top. Cover and cook on Low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, until the top looks set around the edges and soft in the center.
4. Turn off the slow cooker and let the dessert rest uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes so it firms up slightly. Scoop and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For extra s'mores flavor: Crumble a few graham crackers over each serving right before eating. This keeps the crackers crisp and gives that classic campfire-dessert feel without changing the easy four-ingredient base.
For picky eaters: If someone in the family does not love marshmallow pockets, reduce the marshmallows mixed into the batter and keep most of them on top instead, so each person can scoop around them more easily.
To prevent overcooking: Slow cookers can run hot, so start checking near the 2 1/2-hour mark. You want a set edge and a soft middle; if cooked too long, the dessert can lose that gooey texture that makes it special.
Make it a little richer: A small handful of extra chocolate chips scattered over the top during the last 15 minutes of cooking makes the surface even glossier and more decadent for special occasions.