This Classic Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Cake is a warm, cozy treat perfect for fall. Made with rich pumpkin and delightful spices, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!
The best part? You can set it and forget it while it cooks slowly to delicious perfection. I love serving it with whipped cream on top—because who can resist a little extra cream? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience. If you prefer, you can make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-blended and smooth for the right texture.
Spice Cake Mix: This is the star of the cake! If you can’t find spice cake mix, you can substitute with yellow cake mix and add 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for flavor.
Nuts: I love adding chopped pecans for an extra crunch. Walnuts work well too. If you want to keep it nut-free, just omit them entirely, and the cake will still be delicious!
Brown Sugar: You can use white sugar if that’s what you have on hand. However, brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, coconut sugar or maple sugar can also be good substitutes.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture in a Slow Cooker Cake?
The key to a moist and fluffy cake lies in mixing and cooking techniques. When mixing, don’t over-stir after adding the cake mix—just combine until you see no dry spots. You’ll want to avoid a tough cake.
- Ensure your crockpot is properly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray to avoid sticking.
- Cooking on low for 3 to 4 hours is crucial. Every crockpot is different, so start checking for doneness at 3 hours.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly in the crockpot before serving to set up further.
Classic Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 box spice cake mix (about 18 oz)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)
- Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pumpkin spice cake takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 3 to 4 hours of cooking time in the crockpot on low. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon or a fun get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree, melted butter, water, and eggs. Use a whisk to mix it all together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where the delicious pumpkin flavor starts!
2. Combine with the Cake Mix:
Next, sprinkle in the spice cake mix and pumpkin pie spice. Stir just until everything is combined—don’t over-mix! If you’re adding nuts, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
3. Prepare the Crockpot:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the crockpot and smooth it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the batter for that extra sweetness.
4. Cook the Cake:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—it should come out clean when it’s ready!
5. Let It Cool:
When the cake is done, turn off the crockpot and let it cool for a few minutes with the lid on. This will help it set before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon generous portions of the warm cake onto plates. If you like, drizzle with caramel sauce, add a dollop of whipped cream, and sprinkle some cinnamon and extra nuts on top. Dig in and savor the cozy flavors of fall!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth. You will need about 2 cups of fresh pumpkin puree to replace the canned version. Just ensure it’s well-blended for the best texture in your cake.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the regular spice cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure to check the label for any additional ingredients you might need to add for best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the crockpot on low for about 30 minutes.
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick. You can also mix in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
