There’s a special kind of joy that comes from creating something unexpected with a trusty kitchen appliance. My Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake recipe is precisely one of those delightful surprises. Often, when I share that I bake cakes and loaves of bread right in my slow cooker, I’m met with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Yet, the proof is in the pudding – or, in this case, the pudding cake!

For me, the slow cooker isn’t just for savory stews and chilis; it’s a versatile tool that simplifies life in the kitchen. It significantly minimizes cleanup, keeps the house cool by not heating up the oven, and honestly, it’s become a fun challenge to see just how many dishes I can adapt for slow cooking. This innovative approach offers incredible convenience, especially during busy holidays or warm months when you want to avoid turning on the oven. Do you have any surprising slow cooker recipes that amaze people? I’d absolutely love to hear about your culinary adventures!

The Ultimate Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake: Your New Favorite Fall Dessert

Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake. This unique dessert combines the best of a comforting pumpkin pie and a moist, tender cake, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s ideal for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply a sweet treat on a crisp fall evening. The “set it and forget it” nature of this recipe makes it a lifesaver when you need a show-stopping dessert without the fuss of traditional baking.

The Magic of Slow Cooker Desserts

Using a slow cooker for desserts might sound unconventional, but once you try it, you’ll be converted. The gentle, consistent heat of a crock pot creates an incredibly moist and tender cake, often surpassing what you can achieve in a conventional oven. This method prevents dry edges and ensures an even cook throughout. Plus, it frees up valuable oven space, which is a game-changer during holiday baking marathons. Imagine baking your dessert while your oven is busy roasting a turkey or a ham! It’s a true win-win for efficiency and deliciousness. Cleanup is also a breeze, as most slow cooker inserts are non-stick and easy to wash.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake

This Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake isn’t just easy; it’s a sensory delight. The texture is a beautiful hybrid – a rich, custardy pudding base topped with a light, fluffy cake layer, all infused with the warm, inviting spices of pumpkin pie. It’s less dense than a traditional cake and more substantial than a typical pudding, striking a perfect balance. The flavors are quintessential autumn, evoking feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or chilled as a refreshing treat, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Gather Your Ingredients: Simple & Delicious

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its straightforward ingredient list. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry already, making it an accessible dessert for any occasion.

• Pumpkin Puree/Canned Pumpkin: Ensure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which already contains added sugars and spices. Pure pumpkin provides the authentic flavor and moistness.
• Evaporated Milk: This creamy ingredient adds richness and helps create the pudding-like consistency. It’s a secret weapon for deeply flavored and tender slow cooker desserts.
• White Sugar: For sweetness, balancing the earthy pumpkin and warm spices.
• Bisquick Baking Mix: The convenience star of this recipe! Bisquick helps form the cake-like topping with minimal effort, eliminating the need for separate flour, leavening agents, and salt.
• Eggs (beaten): Act as a binder, adding structure and richness to the pudding cake.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: The heart of fall flavors! This blend typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, delivering that signature aromatic warmth.
• Lemon Zest: A subtle but powerful addition. Lemon zest brightens all the flavors, cutting through the richness and adding a fresh, vibrant note that elevates the entire dish. Don’t skip it!

Essential Kitchen Tools for Slow Cooker Success

Preparing this pumpkin pie pudding cake requires minimal specialized equipment, making it a great recipe for any home cook.

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. We highly recommend using a model with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting after the cooking time is complete. This feature ensures your dessert cooks perfectly without overdoing it, giving you peace of mind and flexibility.
• Whisk or Wooden Spoon: Essential for thoroughly combining your ingredients, ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Serving Dishes: Individual bowls or plates are perfect for serving this comforting dessert, especially when paired with your favorite toppings.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Pumpkin Perfection

Creating this delicious Crock Pot Pumpkin Pie Pudding Cake is incredibly simple, requiring just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions for a perfect fall dessert every time.

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by lightly spraying the inside of your crock pot with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the pudding cake from sticking and ensures easy removal and cleanup.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker insert, combine all the ingredients: pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, white sugar, Bisquick baking mix, beaten eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and lemon zest. Stir vigorously with a whisk or wooden spoon until all lumps are gone and the mixture is smooth and well-incorporated. Ensure the Bisquick is fully mixed in to avoid dry pockets.
3. Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook the pumpkin pie pudding cake on the LOW setting for approximately 3 hours. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model, so keep an eye on it during the last 30 minutes. The cake is ready when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges are set.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pudding Cake

• Serving Temperature: This pudding cake is wonderfully versatile! It can be served warm, straight from the slow cooker, for a truly comforting experience. Alternatively, chill it completely in the refrigerator and serve cold, which offers a delightful, firmer texture reminiscent of classic pumpkin pie.
• Doneness Check: While cooking on low for 3 hours is a good guideline, actual cooking time can vary. To check for doneness, insert a clean knife or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a dry texture.
• Topping Ideas: Elevate your pudding cake with delicious toppings. Classic whipped cream is always a winner. Consider a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra flair.
• Storage: Store any leftover pumpkin pie pudding cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes just as good, if not better, the next day!
• Customization: Feel free to experiment! Add a handful of chocolate chips (white or semi-sweet) to the batter for a different flavor profile, or increase the lemon zest for a brighter taste.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (Servings: 6)

• Calories: 170 kcal (Calories from Fat 27)
• % Daily Value*
• Fat: 3g (5% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (6% DV)
• Cholesterol: 55mg (18% DV)
• Sodium: 172mg (7% DV)
• Potassium: 256mg (7% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 31g (10% DV)
• Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
• Sugar: 22g (24% DV)
• Protein: 5g (10% DV)
• Vitamin A: 11205IU (224% DV)
• Vitamin C: 3.4mg (4% DV)
• Calcium: 106mg (11% DV)
• Iron: 1.6mg (9% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Explore More Pumpkin & Bisquick Delights

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting flavors of pumpkin or the convenience of Bisquick, we have plenty more recipes for you to explore. These selections offer diverse ways to enjoy your favorite ingredients, from sweet treats to hearty meals.

• More Canned Pumpkin Recipes: Discover a collection of recipes utilizing canned pumpkin beyond pies, perfect for seasonal baking and year-round enjoyment.
• Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies: A chewy, warmly spiced cookie that combines the goodness of oats with the festive flavor of pumpkin. Perfect for lunchboxes or an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Crock Pot Pumpkin Dump Cake: Another incredibly easy slow cooker dessert that essentially ‘dumps’ ingredients into the pot for a delicious, bubbly pumpkin treat. Minimal effort, maximum flavor.
• Crock Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte: Warm up with this homemade pumpkin spice latte, perfect for a cozy morning or a festive evening. We even have a boozy variation for adult enjoyment!
• Libby’s Famous Pumpkin Pie Recipe: When you crave a classic, tried-and-true pumpkin pie, look no further than Libby’s iconic recipe. It’s a holiday staple for a reason!
• Easy Bisquick Recipes: Unlock the potential of Bisquick with this collection of simple recipes, ranging from breakfast favorites to dinner ideas and more effortless desserts.

Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to explore our extensive categories:

• Copycat Recipes: Recreate your restaurant favorites at home with our easy-to-follow copycat recipes.
• Dessert Recipes: Indulge your sweet tooth with a wide array of decadent and delightful dessert options for every craving.
• Crock Pot Recipes: Simplify your meal prep and enjoy hearty, flavorful dishes with our collection of slow cooker recipes for every meal.

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Originally posted October 2016, updated and expanded October 2020 and for this current version.