Name: Crockpot S'mores Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 1 package Devil's Food Cake Mix (This dense mix sets the stage with a rich chocolate flavor.); 1 package Instant Chocolate Pudding (Essential for adding moisture and depth to the chocolatey cake.); 1 cup Milk (Whole milk gives a creamier texture.); 3 large Eggs (Help bind everything together.); 1/2 cup Butter (melted) (Adds richness and flavor.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Provides extra moisture while balancing sweetness.); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Rounds out the flavors, adding warmth.); 2 bars Hershey Bars (chopped) (Finely chopped for melting.); 8 sheets Graham Crackers (broken) (Break into larger pieces for more bite.); 2 cups Mini Marshmallows (Creates gooey s'mores topping.); 1 bar More chocolate bars (Layer on top before serving.); 1 cup More marshmallows (Layer on top before serving.); 2 sheets More graham crackers (Layer on top before serving.)

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As the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s something magical about gathering around warm, comforting desserts. One evening, I caught myself daydreaming about the nostalgia of campfire s’mores—the melty chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. That inspired me to whip up a delightful Crockpot S’mores Cake, a dessert that marries all the beloved flavors of s’mores in a warm, gooey cake you can make effortlessly in your slow cooker. This easy dessert not only requires minimal prep time but also serves as a truly crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion, from Halloween parties to cozy family dinners. Are you ready to indulge in a slice of this fall comfort food? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!

Why Is This Crockpot S’mores Cake Special?

Warm, Gooey Goodness: Experience a delightful twist on a classic dessert, as the slow cooker transforms traditional s’mores into a rich cake that oozes chocolate and melted marshmallows.

Effortless Preparation: With minimal effort, simply mix and pour—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings!

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Guests will rave about this unique dessert, making it ideal for parties or cozy family nights, just like our Zucchini Coffee Cake or Blueberry Cake Donuts.

Versatile Flavor Profile: Customize with your favorite add-ins, from nuts to alternative extracts, ensuring this dessert won’t ever get boring.

Perfect for Fall: Celebrate the season with a dessert that embodies the spirit of autumn, providing warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Crockpot S’mores Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

Devil’s Food Cake Mix – This dense mix sets the stage with a rich chocolate flavor, perfect for a cozy dessert.
Instant Chocolate Pudding – Essential for adding moisture and depth to the chocolatey cake; don’t skip it!
Milk – Activates the pudding mix; whole milk gives a creamier texture that’s hard to resist.
Eggs – Help bind everything together, ensuring that every bite is moist and delicious!
Butter (melted) – Adds richness and flavor; let it cool slightly before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
Sour Cream – Provides extra moisture while balancing sweetness; Greek yogurt is a good alternative!
Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors, adding a lovely warmth to the cake.

For the S’mores Flavor

Hershey Bars (chopped) – The secret to achieving that authentic s’mores taste; make sure the chocolate is finely chopped for melting!
Graham Crackers (broken) – These add a delightful crunch, creating the perfect texture contrast; break them into larger pieces for more bite.
Mini Marshmallows – These create that gooey s’mores topping; feel free to use regular marshmallows if that’s what you have on hand.

For Toppings

More chocolate bars, marshmallows, and graham crackers – Layer these on top before serving to elevate the presentation and satisfy chocolate cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot S’mores Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the devil’s food cake mix and the instant chocolate pudding mix until well combined. This creates the base for your Crockpot S’mores Cake. Slowly add the milk, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix vigorously for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and glossy, ensuring no lumps remain.

Step 2: Add S’mores Elements
Now, gently fold in the chopped Hershey bars and broken graham crackers into the cake batter. This step infuses the rich chocolate and crunchy textures, essential for that delightful s’mores flavor. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep those tasty chunks intact for the best results in your slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the insert of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cake later. Pour the cake batter into the greased insert and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This makes sure the cake cooks uniformly while capturing all the splendid flavors of the Crockpot S’mores Cake.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 2 to 2½ hours. Check for doneness around the 2-hour mark by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This monitoring helps prevent overcooking, so your cake remains moist and gooey.

Step 5: Add Marshmallow Topping
Once the cake has set properly, sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the top. These will melt and become delightfully gooey, enhancing the s’mores experience. Once added, cover again and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the marshmallows to become soft and fluffy.

Step 6: Toast the Marshmallows
For an extra special finish, carefully transfer the slow cooker insert to the oven. Preheat your broiler and broil the cake for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. You want the marshmallows to turn golden brown and slightly charred, providing that classic toasted flavor reminiscent of campfires.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once broiled to perfection, let the Crockpot S’mores Cake cool slightly before serving. Use a large spoon to scoop generous portions, ideally alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch. Your warm, gooey cake awaits, perfect for sharing with friends and family on cozy autumn nights!

Crockpot S’mores Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these fun twists on the classic Crockpot S’mores Cake!

Cookie Dough: Swap the cake mix for chocolate chip cookie dough for a rich, chewy texture. Enjoy a perfect blend of flavors as the cookie dough bakes into a delicious cake.
Buttermilk Boost: Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a richer, tangy flavor that adds depth. It’s a simple substitution that makes a big difference!
Nutty Surprise: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. The nuts will add an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
S’mores Protein: Include a scoop of your favorite chocolate protein powder for a healthier option. This gives a guilt-free indulgence while still delivering that comforting flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle warmth that takes the flavor profile to the next level. It adds an unexpected twist you and your guests will love!
Fruit Fusion: Mix in some diced strawberries or bananas for a fruity surprise in each bite. The sweetness from the fruit complements the chocolate beautifully, creating a delicious contrast.
Different Chocolates: Experiment with dark chocolate or caramel-filled chocolate bars for an exciting flavor play. Each chocolate type brings its unique character to the cake.
Festive Toppings: Top the cake with crushed peppermint candies during the holiday season for a touch of festive cheer. It’s a delightful way to add color and flavor!

Ready to try other amazing dessert recipes? This Crockpot S’mores Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of Honey Cheesecake Salted or can be served alongside a slice of scrumptious Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake Bars. Enjoy the variety and let your taste buds lead the way!

Expert Tips for Crockpot S’mores Cake

Timing Check: Start checking your cake around the 2-hour mark to avoid overcooking; every slow cooker varies slightly in heat.
Grease Well: Make cleanup a breeze by ensuring your slow cooker insert is well-greased or lined with parchment; it prevents sticking.
Rest Time: Allow the cake to rest for 10 minutes after cooking for easier slicing; it helps set the layers for serving.
Broiling Caution: When toasting marshmallows, keep a close eye on the oven; broilers can burn quickly, so monitor carefully.
Customize Add-ins: Experiment with nuts or alternative chocolate for a twist in flavor, making your Crockpot S’mores Cake uniquely yours!

What to Serve With Crockpot S’mores Cake?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the sweetness and warmth of your slow-cooked creation.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, gooey cake, balancing the richness beautifully. A scoop on top transforms the dessert into an indulgent delight!
Fresh Berries: Brighten up your plate with a handful of raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds a pop of color, ensuring a refreshing contrast.
Hot Cocoa: For a cozy beverage, serve a warm mug of hot cocoa alongside your cake. The chocolatey drink enhances the dessert’s flavors while providing a comforting fall vibe.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch. Their nutty flavor adds depth and makes each bite even more satisfying.
Crushed Graham Crackers: Dusting crushed graham crackers over the top not only enhances the s’mores experience but also adds texture, bringing the classic campfire flavor to life.
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream on the side adds a fluffy richness, and you can infuse it with vanilla or cocoa for an extra reminder of the cake’s flavors!

Each pairing offers its unique flair while celebrating the deliciousness of your Crockpot S’mores Cake!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot S’mores Cakes are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring the mixture back to room temperature before transferring it to the slow cooker for cooking. Additionally, you can break the graham crackers and chop the Hershey bars ahead of time, keeping them in separate containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the final steps of cooking it in the slow cooker and adding the marshmallows—this means you can enjoy a deliciously indulgent dessert with minimal effort on the day of your event!

Storage Tips for Crockpot S’mores Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the Crockpot S’mores Cake to cool completely before storing. Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 1 day if consuming quickly.

Fridge: For longer storage, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, slice the cake and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a deliciously gooey treat.

Crockpot S’mores Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cake mix?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for a premium devil’s food cake mix. However, any chocolate cake mix works wonderfully, ensuring a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with s’mores elements.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your Crockpot S’mores Cake, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container – it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy it warm by popping it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds before serving!

Can I freeze Crockpot S’mores Cake?
Very! If you want to save some for later, slice the cake into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container, where they can happily stay for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave.

What do I do if the cake is too dense?
A common troubleshooting tip is to ensure that you correctly follow the instructions for mixing and measuring your ingredients. If the cake still turns out dense, check that your baking powder (in the cake mix) is fresh. Also, avoid over-mixing when you fold in the chocolate and graham crackers to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the devil’s food cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Just ensure all other ingredients, including the pudding and graham crackers, are certified gluten-free to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.

Are there any alterations for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking to make this Crockpot S’mores Cake dairy-free, you can use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk and replace the butter with dairy-free margarine. For a healthier alternative, try using applesauce instead of eggs, or use flaxseed meal as an egg replacer.