Introduction
You get all the decadent flavor of a classic German chocolate cake with the incredible ease of a slow cooker. This method delivers a supremely moist, fudgy cake with minimal effort and no need to heat up your oven. It’s the perfect hands-off dessert for a busy day or a cozy gathering.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 135 minutes (2 hours, 15 minutes)
Total Time: 2 hours, 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 13.25 oz. Betty Crocker German Chocolate Cake Mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 15.25 oz. tub coconut pecan frosting (Betty Crocker)
Instructions
- Prepare your 5-6 quart slow cooker by generously spraying the interior with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix, vegetable oil, water, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk by hand for 2-3 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it into an even layer.
- Place a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels over the top of the slow cooker insert to catch condensation, then place the lid securely on top.
- Cook on HIGH for 2 hours to 2 hours and 15 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the cakey center (avoiding the frosting pockets) comes out clean.
- Turn off the slow cooker and carefully remove the insert. Let the cake cool in the insert for at least 30 minutes before serving warm, or cool completely.
Variations
- Individual Servings: For easy portions, bake the cake in a slow cooker liner or a parchment-slotted basket instead of directly in the pot.
- Serving Style: For a more traditional layered look, once cooled, you can scoop out portions and plate them with the frosting-side up, dusting with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for presentation.
- Texture Twist: Add a subtle crunch by sprinkling a handful of chopped pecans or toasted coconut over the frosting dollops before cooking.
- Sauce It Up: Serve each warm slice with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent dessert.
Tips for Success
- Check Early: Slow cookers can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness at the 2-hour mark to prevent over-baking.
- Liner Option: For the easiest cleanup, consider using a slow cooker liner before spraying with non-stick spray.
- Towel Trick: The towel under the lid is crucial—it prevents moisture from dripping back onto the cake and making the top soggy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 15-30 seconds. The cake can also be served at room temperature.
FAQ
Can I cook this on LOW instead?
It is not recommended. Cooking on LOW will significantly increase the cook time and may result in a denser, less ideal texture. HIGH heat is best for this cake.
My slow cooker is oval. Will that work?
Yes, an oval slow cooker works perfectly. Just ensure it is a 5-6 quart capacity.
Why is there frosting in the batter and not just on top?
This method creates delicious pockets of gooey frosting within the cake, mimicking the layered effect of a traditional German chocolate cake with far less work.
Can I use a different brand of cake mix or frosting?
For consistent results, it’s best to use the brands and sizes specified, as other brands may have different ingredient ratios and package weights.
The center seems a little underdone when I check it. What should I do?
Continue cooking in 10-minute increments, checking each time with a toothpick. The cake will finish cooking quickly once the center sets.