The holidays can fill up your oven fast. That’s why slow cooker desserts are a smart way to keep Christmas stress low while still serving something sweet and warm. These recipes cook quietly in the background while you finish wrapping gifts or prepping dinner. From molten cakes to apple crisps, each idea is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy December evenings. Here are delicious slow cooker Christmas desserts that anyone can make with everyday ingredients.
1. Slow Cooker Gingerbread Cake
This gingerbread cake tastes rich with warm spices and has a soft texture that works well in a slow cooker. You just mix pantry staples, pour the batter, and let it cook on low. The house fills with a cosy aroma that feels right for December. Serve it with whipped cream or a spoonful of vanilla yoghurt. For a budget trick, swap molasses with brown sugar and a splash of maple syrup. Kids can help by adding the spices into the bowl. This dessert stays warm for hours, so it works well for parties or late-night cravings. If you want a stronger flavour, add extra cinnamon or grated ginger. Leftovers taste great the next day warmed quickly in the microwave.
2. Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Lava Cake
This lava cake gives you a warm, melty centre without any fancy baking steps. Just mix cake batter, add a simple pudding layer on top, and let the slow cooker do the work. The steam creates a soft, gooey texture that feels special for Christmas nights. You can use boxed chocolate cake to keep costs low. Add chocolate chips to make it richer. Serve with ice cream or marshmallows. If you want a peppermint touch, crumble a candy cane on top before serving. The best part is that it stays soft for hours, so everyone can grab a bowl whenever they want.
3. Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
This recipe turns leftover or store-bought cinnamon rolls into a soft dessert that tastes like Christmas breakfast. Cut the rolls, soak them in a simple egg-and-milk mix, and cook on low until set. It becomes fluffy and sweet with pockets of cinnamon throughout. For a wallet-friendly version, use day-old bread and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top. Add raisins or nuts if you like extra texture. Drizzle the icing at the end for a glossy finish. It’s a great dessert for families because everyone can spoon out their own warm serving.
4. Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Apple crisp works very well in a slow cooker because the apples stay soft while the topping gets a pleasant texture. You mix apples with sugar and cinnamon, then add an oat crumble on top. Use whichever apples are cheapest or available. Add a splash of lemon to keep the flavour bright. Serve it warm with custard or ice cream. If you want extra crunch, toast the oats before adding them. This dessert makes the whole kitchen smell like Christmas.
5. Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is easier in a slow cooker because it stays moist and cooks evenly. Mix the batter, pour in, and let it cook while you do holiday chores. Make the sauce with brown sugar, butter, and cream. Pour some on top and stir a little into the batter for extra flavour. You can swap dates with raisins if you’re cutting costs. Serve warm with cream or ice cream. It keeps well, so you can make it earlier in the day.
6. Slow Cooker Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
Fudge becomes very simple with a slow cooker. Add chocolate, condensed milk, and peppermint extract, then stir occasionally until smooth. Pour into a lined tray and chill. Crushed candy canes add a festive look on top. Use store-brand chocolate to save money. You can also switch flavours by adding orange zest or using white chocolate. It’s great for gifting because it stays firm and looks pretty in small boxes.
7. Slow Cooker Cranberry Cobbler
Cranberries add a tart flavour that pairs well with a soft biscuit topping. Mix cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a bit of water. Place a simple batter on top and let it cook until fluffy. This dessert feels festive because of its colour and aroma. Use frozen cranberries if they’re cheaper. Add orange zest for more brightness. Serve with whipped cream to balance the tartness.
8. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Pudding
This pudding tastes like pumpkin pie without the crust. Mix pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and spices, then cook on low until set. It’s soft, creamy, and perfect for chilly nights. You can use store-brand puree to keep costs low. Serve with whipped cream or crumbled biscuits on top. It reheats nicely for leftovers. For extra sweetness, add a splash of maple syrup.
9. Slow Cooker White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters
These clusters need only three or four ingredients. Melt white chocolate in the slow cooker, stir in cranberries and nuts, then scoop onto parchment. Let them harden before serving. They look pretty on a dessert table and store well in tins. Use dried cranberries for best texture. You can mix in pretzels to make them salty and sweet.
10. Slow Cooker Caramel Pear Compote
This compote pairs well with pancakes, ice cream, or simple sponge cake. Slice ripe pears, add caramel sauce, and let them cook until soft. Use any pears you find on sale. Add cinnamon or ginger for more flavour. Serve warm or cold. This dessert is gentle, comforting, and very easy to prep.
11. Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Pudding
This pudding has a creamy, chocolate taste that kids love. Mix cocoa, sugar, milk, and a bit of cornstarch, then cook on low. Stir once in a while to keep it smooth. Serve with marshmallows or crushed cookies. It’s an inexpensive dessert because it uses basic pantry items. Add a bit of cinnamon for a Christmas twist.
12. Slow Cooker Banana Bread Pudding
Bananas make this pudding naturally sweet. Combine bread cubes with mashed bananas, milk, eggs, and sugar. Cook until set and fluffy. Overripe bananas work best and help save money. Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture. Serve warm with cream or caramel sauce.
13. Slow Cooker Peppermint Bark Hot Fudge
This fudge has a glossy, rich texture that works well as a topping for ice cream or brownies. Melt chocolate with a bit of cream, then stir in peppermint pieces. It stays warm and pourable for hours. Keep costs low by using store-brand chocolate. Add a swirl of white chocolate if you want colour contrast.
14. Slow Cooker Apple Bread Pudding
This pudding is soft with bursts of apple in every bite. Use leftover bread or bakery markdowns to keep it budget-friendly. Mix apples with cinnamon sugar and layer with bread cubes. Pour over a milk-and-egg mixture, then cook until golden and set. This recipe works well for large gatherings because it serves a crowd.
15. Slow Cooker Spiced Rice Pudding
Rice pudding tastes warm and comforting, especially with Christmas spices. Mix rice, sugar, milk, and spices. Cook on low until thick and creamy. Stir once or twice to avoid sticking. This dessert works with long-grain or short-grain rice. Add raisins or chopped nuts if you like. It reheats well for breakfast too.
16. Slow Cooker Christmas Toffee Mix
This mix is perfect for gift bags. Add chocolate, pretzels, nuts, and mini marshmallows to the slow cooker. Stir gently until coated. Spread onto parchment and let it set. Break into chunks and store in airtight jars. Use any snack mix you already have to save money. Add festive sprinkles for colour.
17. Slow Cooker Coconut Hot Fudge Cake
This cake has a soft centre and a lightly crisp top. Mix chocolate batter with coconut milk for a creamy flavour. Add shredded coconut before cooking. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream. Use store-brand coconut milk to cut costs. If you like extra texture, toast some coconut flakes and sprinkle them on before serving.
18. Slow Cooker Holiday Berry Compote
This compote works as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or plain pound cake. Add mixed berries, sugar, and a splash of orange juice. Frozen berries work well and are inexpensive. Let them cook until soft and thick. Keep it warm in the slow cooker so everyone can spoon their own servings.
19. Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Brownie Cake
This dessert blends the taste of brownies with creamy peanut butter. Pour brownie batter into the slow cooker and swirl in spoonfuls of peanut butter. Add chocolate chips if you want a richer taste. Let it cook until soft and fudgy. Serve warm with ice cream. It’s a simple recipe using pantry favourites.
20. Slow Cooker Cherry Chocolate Dump Cake
Dump cakes are easy because the ingredients go straight into the slow cooker. Pour cherry pie filling, add chocolate cake mix, and place butter on top. Cook on low until set. The cherries create a sweet, rich sauce under the cake layer. Use frozen cherries and a bit of sugar if pie filling is too pricey.
21. Slow Cooker Orange Spice Bread
This bread tastes bright from the orange zest and warm from the spices. Mix a simple batter, pour it in, and let it cook slowly. The texture stays soft and moist. Add cranberries if you want more colour. Use store-brand flour and sugar to keep things simple. Serve warm with butter.
22. Slow Cooker Rum Raisin Rice Pudding
This pudding has a soft, creamy base with sweet raisins throughout. Mix rice, milk, sugar, raisins, and a small splash of rum extract. Cook on low until thick. Stir now and then. It tastes good warm or chilled. If raisins are expensive, use mixed dried fruit. Sprinkle cinnamon on top before serving.
23. Slow Cooker Mocha Pudding Cake
Coffee adds depth to this chocolate cake. Mix a simple batter, add a warm liquid cocoa mix on top, and let it cook until a soft cake forms with a sauce underneath. Use instant coffee to keep costs low. Serve warm with whipped cream. Add chocolate chips if you want more flavour.
24. Slow Cooker Almond Cranberry Cake
This cake mixes almond flavour with tart cranberries for a seasonal taste. Stir the batter, add cranberries on top, and cook on low. Use frozen cranberries for convenience. Sprinkle sliced almonds before serving. This cake works well for brunch or dessert, and leftovers taste good with coffee.
Conclusion
Slow cooker desserts help free your oven and make Christmas easier. Each recipe is simple, cosy, and perfect for busy December days. Whether you’re hosting or relaxing at home, these ideas bring warm flavours to the table without much prep. Try a few this season and enjoy sweet treats that cook quietly while you enjoy the holidays.
Hannah Collins is a passionate home cook and food storyteller who believes every recipe tells a little love story. At TastyWriter, she shares simple, delicious recipes made for real kitchens and busy days — from cozy comfort dishes to creative new favorites. When she’s not cooking, you’ll find her photographing food, testing family recipes, or sipping tea while dreaming up her next tasty idea.
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