Sometimes it’s too hot to use the oven, especially during summer months. But with barbecues and outdoor get-togethers, it’s necessary to make a good dessert. There are dozens of great desserts made in the slow cooker, and the following Slow Cooker Double Chocolate Cherry Cake is one of them. It takes about two to two and a half hours to bake on low, and comes out moist and delicious. The quick frosting is done in the microwave and can be put on the cake even when it is slightly warm. The cake bakes without heating up the kitchen.

Because I entertain a lot, and use slow cookers to keep things warm, I own several (last count 65), but I’m an appliance junkie and most of you will want to own two or three different types. Slow cookers come in all shapes and sizes. My favorite for cakes, casseroles, and many other desserts is a9” x 13” Casserole Crock, which I use constantly. You can also use a large slow cooker with a bigger footprint rather than a tall one, such as a 7 or 8 quart pot.

16 Servings

Cake:
1 15.25 ounce devil’s food cake mix
1 21 oz. can cherry pie filling
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Frosting:
1/3 cup milk
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1. Spray the inside of a large slow cooker, preferably a 9" x 13" casserole crock, or 7 or 8 quart slow cooker with a large footprint, with non-stick spray with flour.
2. Cake: mix the cake mix, pie filling, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chocolate chips and spread the mixture into the prepared crock.
3. Cover, set the crock to low, and let "bake" 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until the cake pulls away from the crock and the center is just set. Turn off the slow cooker and remove the lid so the cake can cool.
4. Meanwhile, while the cake is baking, make the Frosting. Mix the milk, sugar, and butter in a glass measuring cup; microwave 3 minutes or until boiling. Stir well until the sugar has dissolved. You may have to cook another 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips and let sit for 3 minutes. Stir well until the chocolate has dissolved. Spread over the cake.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 365 Calories from Fat 119
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 33% Protein 1% Carb. 66%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 13 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Cholesterol 38 mg
Sodium 223 mg
Total Carbohydrate 60 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 24 g
Protein 1 g

Vitamin A 5% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 0% Iron 1%