5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of a moist, fluffy cake that melds the comforting flavors of peanut butter with the ease of slow cooker preparation. That's the magic of a 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Cake. This recipe promises not just ease in preparation but also a delightful outcome with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for those spontaneous cravings or when you want to impress without much effort.

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rich flavors each ingredient brings to the table:

• 1 box yellow cake mix - This serves as the base, providing a sweet, buttery canvas for our flavors.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter - Adding a distinctive nutty taste that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s texture.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk - For richness and to caramelize with the peanut butter when cooked low and slow.
• 1 cup water - To ensure the cake mix isn’t too dry and to help everything blend smoothly.
• ¹⁄₂ cup chocolate chips (optional) - If you like an extra layer of flavor, these add a sweet, melty contrast to the peanut butter.

Instructions

Here’s how to bring this delightful dessert to life:

1. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the yellow cake mix. Add the water, stirring gently to combine. Now, fold in the peanut butter, making sure you achieve a somewhat smooth batter.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter. This ensures the cake lifts out easily after cooking.
3. Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours. The exact time can vary, but check with a toothpick inserted into the center to see if it comes out clean.
5. Top with Sweetened Condensed Milk: Once the cake is cooked, pour the can of sweetened condensed milk over the top, letting it seep into the cake for added flavor.
6. Optional Chocolate Chips: If using, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top immediately after adding the milk, allowing them to melt and form a luscious layer.
7. Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. The texture will be like a dense, moist cake with a sticky, caramel-like top.

💡 Note: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker model. Keep an eye on the cake after 2 hours to prevent overcooking.

Tips for Perfection

• Even Batter Spread: Make sure the batter is evenly distributed in the slow cooker for uniform cooking.
• Parchment Paper Lining: Consider lining the bottom of the slow cooker with parchment paper for an easy lift-out.
• Moistness Control: If you find the cake is drying out, cover the top with a layer of aluminum foil to trap moisture during cooking.

This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Cake stands out for its simplicity, delivering a dessert that's rich in flavor yet easy on the cook. The marriage of peanut butter with the slow cooker's gentle heat creates a uniquely moist texture, making it an ideal treat for any gathering or a quiet night in.

Can I use other types of nut butters?

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Yes, while peanut butter offers a classic taste, almond or cashew butter could provide different but equally delicious flavors.

Is it necessary to use a slow cooker?

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You can adapt this recipe for oven baking, but the slow cooker method ensures a unique texture due to the gentle heat.

What can I serve with this cake?

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Ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup would complement the cake wonderfully.