There’s an undeniable joy in discovering new and unexpected ways to utilize our kitchen gadgets. For many, the slow cooker is synonymous with savory stews and pot roasts, but what if I told you it could effortlessly bake a luscious dessert that captures the essence of fall? Get ready to challenge conventional baking notions, because this **Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake** isn’t just a recipe; it’s a delightful revelation!
Imagine a dessert that combines the creamy richness of pumpkin pie with the comforting moistness of a pudding cake, all without turning on your oven. That’s precisely what this slow cooker marvel delivers. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks curiosity and often elicits surprised glances when I mention baking cakes and even loaves of bread in my trusty crock pot. But once you taste the results, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
My passion for slow cooking extends beyond just convenience. It’s about minimizing the cleanup, keeping the house cool on warmer days, and embracing the challenge of transforming everyday appliances into versatile baking companions. The slow cooker allows for a gentle, even bake that locks in moisture and infuses flavors beautifully, making it perfect for desserts like this pumpkin pudding cake. Have you ever surprised your friends or family with an unconventional slow cooker creation? I’d absolutely love to hear about your culinary adventures!
The Ultimate Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake: A Fall Favorite
This recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves pumpkin pie but seeks a less traditional, more effortlessly indulgent dessert experience. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday meals, or simply a cozy evening treat. The pudding cake texture is incredibly soft and comforting, while the familiar flavors of pumpkin and spice wrap you in warmth. It’s a dessert that’s simple to prepare but delivers complex, satisfying results every time.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake
- Effortless Preparation: Minimal hands-on time means more time to enjoy your day. Just combine, stir, and set your slow cooker.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The slow, gentle cooking process ensures a pudding-like consistency that’s incredibly moist and never dry.
- Hands-Off Baking: Free up your oven for other dishes, especially valuable during busy holidays.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot for mixing and cooking dramatically reduces the number of dishes.
- Irresistible Fall Flavors: All the beloved tastes of pumpkin pie in a unique, comforting cake form.
Key Ingredients for Your Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake
Crafting this delightful pumpkin dessert requires just a few simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture:
- Pumpkin Puree/Canned Pumpkin: The star of the show! Ensure you’re using plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which is already spiced and sweetened. Pumpkin provides the signature flavor and a beautiful moist base for our cake.
- Evaporated Milk: This creamy milk product adds richness and contributes to the pudding-like consistency, making the cake extra luscious.
- White Sugar: To sweeten our pumpkin base and create that classic dessert sweetness. Adjust to your preference, though the given amount provides a balanced sweetness.
- Bisquick Baking Mix: The secret to its cake-like structure! Bisquick makes this recipe incredibly easy by providing a pre-mixed blend of flour, leavening agents, and shortening, ensuring a perfect rise and tender crumb without needing multiple dry ingredients.
- Eggs (beaten): Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the cake together and adding to its structure and richness. Beating them lightly before adding helps incorporate them smoothly.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: This spice blend—typically cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—is essential for that warm, inviting fall flavor profile we all adore.
- Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest might seem unexpected, but it brightens the overall flavor, cutting through the richness of the pumpkin and spices for a more complex and vibrant taste. Don’t skip this small but impactful addition!
Essential Equipment for Slow Cooking Success
While the recipe itself is straightforward, having the right tools can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crockpot / Slow Cooker: This is, of course, the star appliance. We highly recommend using a slow cooker with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once the cooking time is complete. This feature is incredibly convenient, preventing overcooking and giving you peace of mind, knowing your dessert will be perfectly cooked even if you’re not immediately available to turn it off. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker works well for this recipe.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: For thoroughly combining your ingredients. A whisk helps eliminate lumps for a smooth batter, while a sturdy wooden spoon works just as well.
- Serving Dishes: Individual bowls or a large platter for presenting your delicious pudding cake.
Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe
Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Cake
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Ingredients
- 15 oz Pumpkin Puree/Canned Pumpkin
- 10 oz Evaporated Milk
- ½ c White Sugar
- ½ cup Bisquick Baking Mix
- 2 Eggs beaten
- 2 Teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 Teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly spraying the inside of your crock pot with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the pudding cake from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- In the prepared crock pot, combine all the listed ingredients: pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, white sugar, Bisquick baking mix, beaten eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and any lumps from the Bisquick are fully incorporated. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.
- Once thoroughly mixed, cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook the pumpkin pudding cake on the LOW setting for exactly 3 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it can release essential heat and moisture, prolonging the cooking time and affecting the final texture. The cake will be set and firm to the touch when done.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
Notes and Expert Tips
For an even richer flavor, you can lightly toast some chopped pecans or walnuts and fold them into the batter before cooking. To add a hint of spice, a dash of ground ginger or extra cinnamon can be mixed in with the pumpkin pie spice. Always ensure your pumpkin puree is 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best results.
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 27
Storage and Reheating
Should you have any delicious leftovers (a rare occurrence with this recipe!), storing them is simple. Cover the crock pot insert or transfer the pudding cake to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire cake back into the slow cooker on a low setting until heated through. Alternatively, enjoy it chilled, which offers a denser, more pie-like experience.
Beyond the Pudding: More Great Pumpkin Recipes to Explore
If this Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake has ignited your passion for pumpkin, you’re in for a treat! Pumpkin is an incredibly versatile ingredient, perfect for both sweet and savory dishes, especially during the fall season. Explore these other fantastic pumpkin recipes to keep the cozy, autumnal vibes going:
- Canned Pumpkin Recipes: Discover a wide array of recipes that make the most of convenient canned pumpkin, from soups to desserts.
- Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies: A classic comfort food with a seasonal twist, these cookies are soft, chewy, and spiced just right.
- Crock Pot Pumpkin Dump Cake: Another incredibly easy slow cooker dessert that combines pumpkin pie flavors with a buttery cake topping.
- Crock Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte: Bring your favorite coffee shop drink home with this slow cooker version, complete with an optional boozy adult twist.
- Libby’s Famous Pumpkin Pie Recipe: Sometimes, you just can’t beat a classic. This traditional pumpkin pie is perfect for holiday tables.
And for those who appreciate the convenience of Bisquick, don’t miss our comprehensive collection of Bisquick Recipes for quick and easy meals and treats!
Explore More Delicious Recipes
If you love discovering new and exciting recipes, be sure to check out our other popular categories. We have something for every taste and occasion:
- Copycat Recipes: Recreate your restaurant favorites at home with these easy-to-follow recipes.
- Dessert Recipes: Indulge your sweet tooth with a wide variety of cakes, cookies, pies, and more.
- Crock Pot Recipes: From hearty dinners to delightful desserts, simplify your cooking with our extensive slow cooker collection.
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Originally posted October 2016, updated and expanded October 2020.