11 Crockpot Christmas Dinner Recipes That Practically Cook Themselves

With the holiday season fast approaching, the idea of a Christmas dinner that requires minimal effort sounds like a dream. Picture a table full of delightful dishes such as Slow-Cooked Honey Glazed Ham and Warm Chocolate Lava Cake, all made with ease. These crockpot recipes are perfect for creating a festive feast without any fuss. Ready to enjoy these comforting flavors while relaxing at home? Let’s explore these simple yet delicious recipes together.

Slow-Cooked Honey Glazed Ham

The holidays are a perfect time to gather around the table with family and friends, and nothing says festive quite like a beautifully glazed ham. This Slow-Cooked Honey Glazed Ham is an effortless yet impressive main dish that will fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of spices and sweet honey. Cooking the ham in a crockpot guarantees that it remains moist and tender, while the honey glaze adds a delightful layer of flavor that everyone will love.

Whether you’re hosting a large Christmas dinner or simply planning a cozy holiday meal for your immediate family, this recipe will make your celebration special.

One of the benefits of using a crockpot for your holiday ham is that it frees up your oven space for other dishes, allowing you to multitask in the kitchen. The slow cooking process also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a succulent and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort.

This recipe is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family dinners. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a memorable holiday meal that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4-5 pound precooked spiral-cut ham
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in your crockpot. Depending on the size of your ham and crockpot, you may need to trim the ham slightly to make certain it fits comfortably.
2. Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined, about 5 minutes.
3. Apply the Glaze: Pour the glaze over the ham in the crockpot, making sure to cover the top and sides. Use a brush or spoon to spread it evenly if needed.
4. Add Water: Pour the 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the crockpot. This will help to keep the ham moist during cooking.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook the ham for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze, until the ham is heated through and tender.
6. Final Glaze: About 30 minutes before serving, spoon some of the glaze from the bottom of the crockpot over the ham to give it a final touch of flavor and shine.
7. Serve: Once cooked, carefully transfer the ham to a serving platter. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to your guests.

Extra Tips:

When choosing your ham, opt for a precooked spiral-cut variety to make serving easier and to guarantee even cooking. If you find the glaze too sweet, adjust the honey and brown sugar to your taste.

For added flavor, consider adding a few orange slices or fresh rosemary sprigs to the crockpot. Always remember to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) for safety.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy your holiday feast with this delicious and simple crockpot honey glazed ham!

Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken

Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken is the perfect dish for a cozy Christmas dinner. This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with tender chicken to create a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; by using a crockpot, you can allow the flavors to meld together slowly over hours for a delectable result.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with the savory flavors of garlic and butter, creating a mouth-watering aroma that fills your home.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for an intimate holiday meal or a side dish in a larger feast. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a crockpot, you can focus on enjoying the festive season while the appliance does the hard work for you.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and guarantee it’s well-seasoned.
2. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
3. Assemble in Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the garlic butter over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
4. Add Herbs and Broth: Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary over the chicken. Then, pour the chicken broth and lemon juice into the crockpot, ensuring it surrounds the chicken but doesn’t wash off the butter and herbs.
5. Cook: Set the crockpot to low heat and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high heat for 2-3 hours.
6. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Spoon some of the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, try using bone-in chicken breasts, which can add more depth to the dish. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and set the crockpot to high, leaving the lid off, to reduce the liquid.

Stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken. Additionally, adding a splash of white wine to the broth can enhance the flavors further. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to guarantee it has reached 165°F for safe consumption.

Tender Pot Roast With Vegetables

There’s no better way to enjoy a cozy Christmas dinner than with a tender pot roast that practically melts in your mouth. Cooking this dish in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld together over hours, creating a savory and aromatic meal that will fill your home with the warmth of the holiday spirit.

This pot roast, accompanied by a medley of perfectly cooked vegetables, isn’t only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free Christmas celebration.

Preparing a pot roast in a crockpot guarantees that the beef becomes tender and juicy, while the accompanying vegetables absorb the rich flavors of the broth and herbs. This slow-cooking method allows you to focus on spending time with your loved ones, as the crockpot takes care of the cooking.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a festive meal that will impress your family and friends, bringing joy and comfort to the holiday table.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):

• 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 2 onions, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef: Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef on all sides until it’s browned. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the roast.
2. Layer the Vegetables: Place the carrots, potatoes, and onions at the bottom of the crockpot. This creates a bed for the meat, guaranteeing the vegetables cook evenly and absorb flavors from the juices.
3. Add the Beef and Aromatics: Place the seared beef chuck roast on top of the vegetables. Add the minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. These aromatics and liquid will infuse both the meat and vegetables with savory flavors.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process will tenderize the beef and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Check for Doneness: After the cooking time is up, check the tenderness of the beef. It should be fork-tender and easily pull apart. If it isn’t as tender as desired, continue cooking for an additional hour.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Slice the pot roast against the grain and serve with the vegetables on the side, drizzled with some of the cooking juices for added flavor.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose a beef chuck roast with good marbling, as the fat will render down during cooking and contribute to the overall tenderness and flavor of the dish.

You can also add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the juices 30 minutes before serving, allowing it to thicken as it finishes cooking.

Enjoy your festive meal with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!

Easy Cranberry Pork Loin

Crockpot Christmas Dinner Recipes are a delightful way to enjoy the holiday season without spending all day in the kitchen. One of the standout dishes you can prepare is the Easy Cranberry Pork Loin. This dish combines the savory flavors of a tender pork loin with the sweet and tart notes of cranberries, creating a harmonious blend that’s both festive and comforting. Perfect for a family gathering, this recipe allows you to enjoy the magic of Christmas while letting the crockpot do all the heavy lifting.

The Easy Cranberry Pork Loin is both simple and sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for your Christmas dinner. The slow cooking process guarantees that the pork loin remains juicy and absorbs all the rich flavors of the accompanying ingredients. As the pork loin cooks slowly in the crockpot, the cranberries break down to create a luscious, fragrant sauce that envelops the meat in holiday flavors. This dish serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family meal or a small gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 to 3 pounds of pork loin
• 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup of cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Loin: Start by seasoning the pork loin with salt and black pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over the surface of the meat to confirm it’s well coated.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, cranberry juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
3. Assemble in the Crockpot: Place the seasoned pork loin in the crockpot. Pour the cranberry mixture over the pork loin, confirming it’s well covered in the sauce.
4. Cook on Low: Set the crockpot to the low setting and cook for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to meld and the pork to become tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce: About 15 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Let it cook for the remaining 15 minutes.
6. Serve: Once the pork loin is cooked and the sauce has thickened, carefully remove the pork from the crockpot and slice it. Serve it with the cranberry sauce drizzled over the top.

Extra Tips:

For best results, choose a pork loin that has a bit of fat on it to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider marinating the pork loin overnight in the cranberry mixture before cooking.

Additionally, if you find the sauce too tart, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar to taste. Remember, the key to this dish is patience; the longer the pork cooks slowly, the more tender and flavorful it will be. Enjoy this Easy Cranberry Pork Loin as part of your festive crockpot Christmas dinner!

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers

If you’re looking to add a bit of color and flavor to your crockpot Christmas dinner, these Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers are a perfect choice. This dish brings together the warmth of a traditional holiday meal with a playful twist. The bell peppers serve as vibrant edible bowls, filled with a hearty mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. As they cook slowly in the crockpot, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family gathering or an intimate holiday dinner. The slow-cooking process guarantees that the bell peppers become tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Whether you’re planning a full Christmas feast or a simple meal, these stuffed bell peppers will surely be a hit, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Begin by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and removing the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water and let them drain upside down on paper towels.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to verify all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling tightly. Sprinkle a bit of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
5. Slow Cook: Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot. Pour the beef broth around the peppers, careful not to pour it directly over the cheese. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the peppers are tender.
6. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the peppers from the crockpot. Serve them warm, garnished with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

If you prefer your peppers with a bit of a bite, reduce the cooking time slightly. Finally, make sure to taste the filling before stuffing the peppers and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that perfectly complements any Christmas dinner. With a crockpot, you can easily prepare this dish with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors and results in rich, creamy potatoes that melt in your mouth.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger family meal, these crockpot mashed potatoes will surely be a hit. Using a crockpot to make mashed potatoes not only saves you time but also adds convenience, as you can set it and forget it while focusing on other dishes.

This recipe combines simple, quality ingredients to create a deliciously smooth and buttery mashed potato dish that pairs wonderfully with any holiday main course. Plus, preparing it in a slow cooker guarantees that your mashed potatoes stay warm and ready to serve throughout your festive meal.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• ½ cup of unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• ½ cup of sour cream
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cubing the Yukon Gold potatoes into even-sized pieces to guarantee they cook evenly. Place the cubed potatoes into the crockpot.
2. Add Initial Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes, guaranteeing they’re mostly submerged. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the crockpot.
3. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily mashed with a fork.
4. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an electric hand mixer to mash the potatoes directly in the crockpot to your desired consistency.
5. Add Cream and Butter: Gradually add the heavy cream and butter to the mashed potatoes, mashing and stirring until fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
6. Stir in Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until well blended into the potatoes, adding a tangy richness to the dish.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary, guaranteeing the flavors are balanced.
8. Keep Warm: Set the crockpot to the warm setting to keep the mashed potatoes at an ideal serving temperature until ready to serve.
9. Serve and Garnish: Before serving, garnish with chopped chives for an added burst of color and mild onion flavor, if desired.

Extra Tips: For an extra creamy texture, guarantee that the heavy cream and butter are at room temperature before adding them to the potatoes. This helps them blend more smoothly.

If you prefer, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. Additionally, you can add a touch of roasted garlic for extra flavor depth. If the mashed potatoes become too thick after sitting in the crockpot, stir in a little more warm cream or broth to reach the desired consistency.

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a classic holiday side dish, and making it in a slow cooker frees up precious oven space while guaranteeing the flavors meld together beautifully. This slow cooker version is perfect for a stress-free Christmas dinner, as it allows you to prepare other dishes while it cooks to perfection.

The creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crispy topping create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will delight your family and guests. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is ideal for those who love convenience without compromising on taste.

Using a slow cooker means you can prepare this dish ahead of time and let it cook while you focus on other holiday preparations. The result is a rich, savory casserole with a delightful crunch, sure to become a favorite at your Christmas table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups French fried onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Add the trimmed green beans and chopped onions to the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables, guaranteeing they’re evenly coated.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the green bean mixture.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours. The beans should be tender, and the sauce should be bubbling.
6. Add Crunch: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the French fried onions over the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and allow the onions to heat and become crispy.
7. Serve: Once cooked, give the casserole a gentle stir to incorporate all ingredients. Serve warm as part of your Christmas dinner spread.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mix.

If you prefer, you can substitute fresh green beans with thawed frozen green beans; just adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen beans may cook faster.

To guarantee the French fried onions remain crispy, add them closer to the end of the cooking time. If you notice the sauce is too thick, simply stir in a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Enjoy your hassle-free holiday cooking with this delicious slow cooker recipe!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Nothing says comfort quite like a creamy, cheesy side dish, and these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes cooked in a crockpot are just the ticket for your Christmas dinner. This dish combines layers of thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, cheesy sauce that melds into a decadent accompaniment for any festive meal.

Not only does it save you oven space, but its slow-cooked goodness guarantees that the flavors are fully developed, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table.

The beauty of this crockpot recipe is in its simplicity and ability to please a crowd. With minimal preparation and a few key ingredients, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other elements of your holiday feast.

Whether you’re serving a traditional ham or a juicy roast, these Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are versatile enough to pair with any main dish, adding a touch of creamy indulgence to your Christmas spread.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly coat the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, melted butter, flour, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme until smooth and well combined. This will be your creamy sauce that binds the dish together.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle half of the sliced onions over the potatoes. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and onions, guaranteeing even coverage. Top with half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Repeat Layers: Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, onions, cream mixture, and cheeses, creating a second layer.
5. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Once cooked, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken before serving. This guarantees that all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Extra Tips:

For best results, use a mandoline to slice the potatoes evenly, as this guarantees they cook at the same rate.

If you prefer a bit of a crispy top, you can finish the dish under a broiler for a few minutes after it’s done in the crockpot. Just transfer it to an oven-safe dish and broil until golden brown.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses like Gruyère or a spicy Pepper Jack for a unique twist.

Classic Holiday Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a timeless dessert perfect for the holiday season, offering warmth and comfort with every bite. This classic holiday bread pudding is made even more convenient and delicious by preparing it in a crockpot. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a rich and creamy texture that’s infused with the festive spices of the season.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a cozy dessert with your family, this crockpot bread pudding is bound to be a hit.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a small holiday gathering or an intimate family dinner. The combination of stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and spices comes together beautifully in this dish, creating a dessert that’s both simple and elegant.

You’ll love the ease of preparation, as the crockpot does most of the work for you, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations or simply enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of stale bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• Butter for greasing the crockpot

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Begin by greasing the inside of your crockpot with butter. This will help prevent the bread pudding from sticking and make for easy cleanup later.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Confirm the mixture is well combined and the sugar has dissolved.
3. Combine with Bread: Add the cubed stale bread into the wet mixture, confirming each piece is thoroughly coated. If using raisins, stir them in at this stage. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
4. Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the bread mixture into the greased crockpot, spreading it evenly.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean. The edges should be slightly browned, and the pudding should be puffed up.
6. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Serve warm topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use bread that’s a day or two old, as fresh bread may become too mushy during cooking. You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as brioche, challah, or a simple white loaf.

If you want to add more flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the wet ingredients. You can also experiment by adding other dried fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips for additional texture and flavor.

Remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, as every crockpot can vary slightly. Enjoy this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any holiday celebration!

Spiced Apple Cider in the Crockpot

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of Spiced Apple Cider wafting through your home. This crockpot recipe not only fills your kitchen with the delightful scent of cinnamon, cloves, and apples but also offers a delicious and warming beverage perfect for chilly winter nights.

Using a crockpot to prepare this cider guarantees that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying drink that’s ideal for both family gatherings and festive parties.

This Spiced Apple Cider is a crowd-pleaser, with its perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The slow cooking process allows the spices to fully infuse the cider, enhancing its natural apple flavor. Served hot and garnished with a cinnamon stick or slice of orange, this cider is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or simply looking to enjoy a cozy night in, this crockpot recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly rewarding.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 gallon of apple cider
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole allspice
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spices: Begin by placing the whole allspice and cloves in a small piece of cheesecloth. Tie it securely with kitchen twine to create a spice bundle. This will make it easier to remove the spices later.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Pour the apple cider into your crockpot. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and apple slices. Place the spice bundle into the crockpot with the other ingredients.
3. Cook on Low: Set the crockpot to low heat. Cover and allow the cider to cook for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the spices to infuse the cider with their flavors.
4. Stir Occasionally: Every hour or so, give the cider a gentle stir to verify the brown sugar dissolves completely and the flavors mix evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cider is ready, remove the spice bundle, cinnamon sticks, and any remaining fruit slices. Ladle the hot cider into mugs, garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired, and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult version of this delightful beverage.

Be sure to taste the cider before serving and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more brown sugar to suit your preference.

If you prefer a more pronounced spice flavor, you can increase the quantity of spices or extend the cooking time by another hour.

Finally, using freshly pressed apple cider if available can enhance the drink’s overall freshness and depth of flavor.

Enjoy your Spiced Apple Cider as a heartwarming treat this holiday season!

Warm Chocolate Lava Cake

Warm Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent dessert that perfectly complements a cozy Christmas dinner. This rich and gooey cake boasts a molten chocolate center that oozes out when you take a bite, creating a truly indulgent experience. It’s an ideal treat for chocolate lovers and is surprisingly easy to make using a crockpot, allowing you to focus on preparing other holiday dishes while this dessert cooks to perfection.

The magic of a Warm Chocolate Lava Cake lies in its contrasting textures: the firm outer cake encasing a luscious, liquid chocolate core. By using a crockpot, you can achieve this delightful dessert with minimal fuss, as the slow, even heat guarantees the cake remains moist and the center stays molten. It’s a great option for serving 4-6 people and, with a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this impressive dessert with ease.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (additional for topping)
• 1 3/4 cups hot water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cake from sticking as it cooks.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir to verify the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
4. Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the batter into the prepared crockpot and spread it evenly with a spatula.
5. Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and additional cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the crockpot.
6. Add Hot Water: Carefully pour the hot water over the top of the batter and sugar mixture. Don’t stir. This step is vital, as the water helps create the lava texture in the cake.
7. Cook: Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on high for 2 to 2 ½ hours. The cake should be firm and cooked on the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
8. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve warm, scooping portions into bowls to reveal the gooey center. Optional: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra treat.

Extra Tips: To verify the perfect lava consistency, resist the urge to stir after adding the hot water. The layered ingredients and heat create the desired molten center. If you’d like to add a twist, consider incorporating a teaspoon of espresso powder into the batter for a mocha flavor or sprinkle some sea salt on top before serving to enhance the chocolate taste.