This easy slow cooker dessert is the kind of low-effort treat that helps a busy day end on a sweet note. With just five simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can let the slow cooker do the work while you focus on the rest of dinner. It has the spirit of an old-fashioned pudding cake, with a warm, spoonable texture and rich swirls throughout, making it especially handy for family meals and casual get-togethers.
Serve this warm straight from the slow cooker in small bowls with vanilla ice cream, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries to balance the richness. If you want to make dessert feel a little extra special, pair it with coffee after supper or pour a cold glass of milk for the kids. Shortbread cookies or plain butter cookies on the side are also nice for scooping up every last bit.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker September Preview
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 box white cake mix
1 cup brewed coffee, cooled slightly
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Directions
1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker. In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the white cake mix, brewed coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and melted butter until mostly smooth.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips, then pour the mixture into the prepared slow cooker and spread it into an even layer.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the edges are set and the center is still soft and spoonable.
4. Turn off the slow cooker and let the dessert rest for 10 to 15 minutes so it thickens slightly before serving.
5. Spoon into bowls and serve warm, plain or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if you like.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters: Leave out the chocolate chips if your family prefers a smoother texture. The dessert will still bake up soft and rich, with a milder flavor.
Make it gentler in flavor: If you want less coffee character, use a weaker brew or replace part of the coffee with milk. That keeps the dessert warm and creamy without such a bold finish.
Serving tip: This dessert is richest right out of the cooker while still warm. Use a small scoop or large spoon for serving, because a little goes a long way after a full dinner.
Slow cooker tip: Cooking times can vary quite a bit from one slow cooker to another, so start checking on the early side. You want soft, molten center texture, not a fully firm cake.