Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
A rich and gooey chocolate lava cake made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings without the fuss.
Ingredients
For the batter
- 1 cup All-purpose flour Spoon and level to avoid packing.
- 1 cup Granulated sugar For sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder Good quality cocoa recommended.
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder For leavening.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup Milk Whole milk for richer flavor.
- 1/4 cup Melted butter Adds flavor and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Round out the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup Chocolate chips Semi-sweet or dark.
For the topping
- 1 cup Brown sugar For a warm, caramel-like flavor.
- 1/4 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder For depth in the topping.
- 4 cups Boiling water Key for forming the lava layer.
Instructions
Preparation
- Grease the insert of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray. If your cooker runs hot, place a layer of parchment on the bottom.
- In a bowl, whisk the flour, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly in the slow cooker.
Topping and Cooking
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and remaining cocoa. Sprinkle evenly over the batter. Do not stir.
- Carefully pour the boiling water over the top without stirring. It will look unusual; this is intentional.
- Cover and cook on High for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Start checking around 1 hour 30 minutes.
- The edges should be set and springy, while the center should remain glossy and jiggle slightly.
Serving
- Turn off the cooker and let the cake rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, scooped into bowls with ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave. For variations, consider adding a swirl of peanut butter or raspberry jam, or a hint of peppermint extract.