Slow Cooker Pumpkin Recipes: Delicious Fall Desserts Made Easy
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing embodies the spirit of fall quite like pumpkin. From cozy pumpkin pies to decadent cakes, the versatility of pumpkin in the kitchen is unmatched. In this article, we’ll explore a range of slow cooker pumpkin recipes that are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a classic pumpkin pie cake or a unique crockpot pumpkin cobbler, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into these delightful recipes! |
| Pumpkin Recipes |
Why Use a Slow Cooker for Pumpkin Recipes?
Slow cookers are a fantastic tool for creating rich, flavorful dishes with minimal effort. Here are a few reasons to love using a slow cooker for your pumpkin recipes:- Convenience: Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Enhanced Flavor: Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more intense taste.
- Moisture Retention: Dishes cooked in a slow cooker tend to retain moisture, making them tender and delicious.
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Recipes
1. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake
Ingredients- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Set Up the Slow Cooker: Apply cooking spray to the interior of your slow cooker.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mixtures: Stir the dry ingredients until just incorporated, then gradually add the liquid mixture.
- Cook: Pour the batter into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Savor it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
For an extra touch, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before cooking for added texture and flavor!
2. Pumpkin Pie Cake
Ingredients- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- To get the slow cooker ready, spray cooking spray on it.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, spices, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Add Pecans: If using, fold in the chopped pecans.
- Cook: Pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until set.
- Serve: Allow to cool before serving. Add whipped cream over top for a delectable treat!
For a twist, try adding a layer of cream cheese frosting on top after the cake has cooled!
3. Crockpot Pumpkin Cobbler
Ingredients- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray.
- Mix Pumpkin Base: In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Prepare Cake Layer: In another bowl, mix the cake mix, milk, and melted butter until combined. Pour this over the pumpkin mixture.
- Top with Nuts: If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
- Cook for 4–6 hours on low with a lid on.
- Serve: Scoop out portions and serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream!
For a fun twist, add chocolate chips to the cake layer for a delicious surprise!
4. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Dump Cake
Ingredients- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Get the slow cooker ready: Apply cooking spray to the slow cooker to grease it.
- Pumpkin Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, pumpkin puree, and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Pour this into the slow cooker.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
- Drizzle Butter: Cover the cake mix with melted butter. Do not stir!
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until set.
- Serve: Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
For an added crunch, sprinkle some oats on top before adding the butter!
Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Pumpkin Recipes
- Use Canned or Fresh Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin is convenient, but you can also use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer. Just ensure it’s well-pureed for smooth texture.
- Season Generously: Pumpkin is a naturally mild flavor, so adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger will enhance the taste.
- Add a Topping: A simple glaze, chopped nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate these desserts to the next level.
These slow cooker pumpkin recipes are perfect for fall gatherings, cozy family dinners, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make them a must-try this season.
1. Can I substitute canned pumpkin for fresh pumpkin in these recipes?
Yes, you may substitute canned pumpkin with fresh pumpkin puree. Just be sure to cook and puree it until smooth for the best texture in your recipes.
2. How long do these pumpkin recipes need to cook in a slow cooker?
Most pumpkin desserts in a slow cooker take between 4 to 8 hours on the low setting. The exact time depends on the recipe, so check for doneness with a toothpick or follow specific instructions.
3. Can I make these pumpkin recipes with more spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to taste. Pumpkin has a mild flavor, so spices enhance its taste beautifully.
4. Is it okay to lift the lid of the slow cooker while my dessert is cooking?
It's best to keep the lid on during cooking to maintain heat and ensure even cooking. Lifting the lid too often can add cooking time.
5. Can I make these pumpkin desserts in an Instant Pot using the slow cook function?
Yes, the slow cook setting on an Instant Pot can work for these recipes, but cooking times may vary. Refer to your Instant Pot manual for guidance on slow cooking settings.
Yes, you may substitute canned pumpkin with fresh pumpkin puree. Just be sure to cook and puree it until smooth for the best texture in your recipes.
2. How long do these pumpkin recipes need to cook in a slow cooker?
Most pumpkin desserts in a slow cooker take between 4 to 8 hours on the low setting. The exact time depends on the recipe, so check for doneness with a toothpick or follow specific instructions.
3. Can I make these pumpkin recipes with more spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to taste. Pumpkin has a mild flavor, so spices enhance its taste beautifully.
4. Is it okay to lift the lid of the slow cooker while my dessert is cooking?
It's best to keep the lid on during cooking to maintain heat and ensure even cooking. Lifting the lid too often can add cooking time.
5. Can I make these pumpkin desserts in an Instant Pot using the slow cook function?
Yes, the slow cook setting on an Instant Pot can work for these recipes, but cooking times may vary. Refer to your Instant Pot manual for guidance on slow cooking settings.
