11 Slow Cooker Christmas Potluck Recipes That Make Hosting Effortless

Hosting a Christmas potluck can be a joyful experience, especially with a little help from your slow cooker. Picture a table filled with delicious dishes like Honey Glazed Ham and Creamy Mashed Potatoes, all prepared with ease. These recipes will keep the food warm and flavorsome, allowing you to focus on the celebration. Discover treats like Chocolate Lava Cake and Spiced Apple Cider that will delight your guests. These 11 slow cooker recipes will make your holiday gathering unforgettable.

Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham

Nothing says holiday feast quite like a beautifully glazed ham, and this Slow Cooker Honey Glazed Ham is no exception. Perfect for Christmas potlucks, this recipe guarantees your ham remains tender, juicy, and packed full of flavor.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other festive preparations. The combination of honey, brown sugar, and spices creates a luscious glaze that complements the savory ham, making it a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.

Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this recipe is both simple and delicious. With minimal preparation and hands-off cooking, you can have a perfectly cooked ham without the stress of oven space or constant monitoring.

Whether you’re hosting a family get-together or contributing to a community potluck, this dish is sure to impress. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table, keen to dig into the succulent, sweet, and savory delight.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3-4 pound) fully cooked boneless ham
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ham: Begin by unwrapping the ham and patting it dry with paper towels. Place the ham flat side down in the slow cooker. If the ham is too large, carefully trim it to fit.
2. Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Apply the Glaze: Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Use a brush or spoon to spread the glaze over the entire surface of the ham, allowing it to seep into any crevices.
4. Cook the Ham: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook the ham for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally with the juices collected at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps to enhance the flavors and maintain moisture.
5. Finish and Serve: Once the ham is heated through and coated in a rich glaze, remove it from the slow cooker. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving into slices. Drizzle remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the slices before serving.

Extra Tips: For a more pronounced flavor, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and marinate the ham overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat.

When choosing a ham, opt for a boneless variety for easier slicing and serving. If you prefer a more caramelized glaze, transfer the ham to a baking sheet after cooking and broil it in the oven for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Enjoy the rich and festive flavors of this delightful dish!

Crockpot Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Crockpot Creamy Mashed Potatoes are the perfect addition to any holiday potluck, providing a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker not only saves valuable stovetop space during those hectic holiday meal preparations but also guarantees that your mashed potatoes remain warm and creamy throughout your gathering.

This recipe combines rich flavors and a velvety texture, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit at your Christmas festivities. For those hosting or attending a Christmas potluck, this dish is ideal as it can be prepared in advance and kept warm until serving time.

The creamy consistency is achieved by combining Yukon Gold potatoes with butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half, resulting in a luxurious side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, freeing you up to focus on other holiday tasks or simply enjoy the celebration.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup half-and-half
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cubing the Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. This guarantees even cooking.
2. Load the Slow Cooker: Place the cubed potatoes into the slow cooker. Add the butter pieces evenly over the potatoes, allowing them to melt and coat the potatoes as they cook.
3. Season the Potatoes: Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the potatoes, guaranteeing the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Cook the Potatoes: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
5. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, add the softened cream cheese and half-and-half to the slow cooker. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes directly in the slow cooker until they reach the desired creamy consistency.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Keep Warm: Switch the slow cooker to the warm setting to keep the mashed potatoes warm until ready to serve. Garnish with fresh chives before serving, if desired.

Extra Tips:

For even creamier mashed potatoes, consider using an electric hand mixer instead of a potato masher for a smoother texture. If you prefer a bit more flavor, you can substitute the half-and-half with heavy cream.

Additionally, these mashed potatoes can be prepared a day ahead; simply cool them down after mashing, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat in the slow cooker on low before serving. This flexibility makes them a stress-free option for holiday gatherings.

Enjoy your Crockpot Creamy Mashed Potatoes as a delicious, hassle-free side dish at your Christmas potluck!

Easy Slow Cooker Stuffing

Slow Cooker Stuffing is a delicious and hassle-free way to prepare a classic holiday side dish. This recipe allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of traditional stuffing without the need for constant attention or oven space. Perfect for a Christmas potluck, this dish combines aromatic herbs, savory broth, and crusty bread into a comforting and flavorful stuffing that will complement any holiday meal.

Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also guarantees that the stuffing remains moist and flavorful throughout. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this recipe is perfect for small gatherings or as part of a larger festive spread. With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a delicious stuffing ready to serve without the stress of traditional baking methods.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (about 1 pound), cubed
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread Cubes: Begin by cutting the loaf of crusty bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and let them dry out overnight or bake them in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until they’re dry and slightly toasted.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the cooked onion and celery mixture. Add the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
4. Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread and vegetable mixture, followed by the beaten eggs. Stir everything together until the bread is evenly coated with the liquid ingredients.
5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the slow cooker, pressing it down gently to compact it slightly.
6. Cook the Stuffing: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the stuffing is cooked through and the top is golden brown. Check occasionally to make sure the stuffing isn’t drying out; if it seems dry, add a bit more broth.
7. Serve: Once the stuffing is cooked, fluff it with a fork before serving. Enjoy your delectable slow cooker stuffing as part of your Christmas potluck spread.

Extra Tips:

For an added burst of flavor, consider adding some cooked sausage or chopped nuts to the stuffing mixture before cooking. If you prefer a more herbaceous stuffing, feel free to adjust the amount of herbs to your liking.

Additionally, if your slow cooker is on the smaller side, you can easily halve the recipe for a reduced serving size. Finally, always check your slow cooker’s manual for specific cooking time adjustments, as different models may vary slightly in cooking times.

Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs

Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful addition to any Christmas potluck. These sweet and tangy meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of the cranberry sauce with the savory meatballs creates a rich and satisfying flavor that pairs beautifully with other festive dishes.

They’re perfect for those who want a quick yet delicious dish that requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations. The convenience of using a slow cooker means you can set these meatballs to cook and forget about them until it’s time to serve. Just imagine the aroma of cranberries and spices wafting through your home, creating the perfect holiday atmosphere.

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a small family get-together, these Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are sure to be a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can whip up this delicious dish for 4-6 people with ease.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs
• 1 can (14 ounces) jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place your slow cooker on a stable surface and set it on the low setting. This will guarantee that the meatballs cook evenly and absorb all the flavors over time.
2. Combine the Sauces: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the jellied cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well combined and smooth.
3. Add Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker. Confirm they’re evenly distributed for consistent cooking and flavor absorption.
4. Pour the Sauce: Carefully pour the mixed sauce over the meatballs. Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir the meatballs, ensuring they’re all well-coated with the sauce.
5. Cook the Meatballs: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let the meatballs cook on low for 4 hours. If you’re short on time, you can also cook them on high for 2 hours, though cooking on low yields the best results regarding flavor and tenderness.
6. Stir Occasionally: If possible, give the meatballs a gentle stir halfway through the cooking time to guarantee even coating and prevent sticking.
7. Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, gently stir the meatballs one last time before serving. Transfer them to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a slight kick of heat. If you’re preparing this dish in advance, you can keep the slow cooker on the warm setting for a couple of hours post-cooking.

Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. These meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a classic holiday side dish that pairs perfectly with any festive spread. This slow cooker version is ideal for a Christmas potluck, as it allows you to prepare it ahead of time and keep it warm throughout the event. The convenience of a slow cooker means you can focus on other holiday preparations while your green bean casserole cooks to perfection.

This recipe maintains the traditional flavors of green bean casserole, with creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions, but with the added ease of slow cooking. It serves 4-6 people, making it a great addition to your holiday menu. Perfectly tender green beans are combined with a savory sauce, and each bite is topped with that irresistible crunch of fried onions.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of cut green beans, drained
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and the green beans are evenly coated.
3. Layer the Casserole: Pour half of the green bean mixture into the slow cooker. Sprinkle 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions over the top. Add the remaining green bean mixture on top of the onions.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The casserole is done when the mixture is hot and bubbly throughout.
5. Add Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole. Cover and continue cooking until the onions are heated through and slightly crisp.
6. Serve: Once done, give the casserole a gentle stir to distribute the crispy onions and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For best results, avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently during cooking, as this can release heat and extend cooking time. If you prefer fresh green beans, blanch them first to guarantee they cook thoroughly in the slow cooker.

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce mixture. If you’re transporting the dish to a potluck, keep the fried onions separate until just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect dish to bring to a Christmas potluck. It’s warm, comforting, and loaded with flavors that celebrate the holiday season. The slow cooker method allows you to achieve a creamy and soft texture for the sweet potatoes, while also freeing up oven space for other dishes you might be preparing.

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that adds an irresistible contrast in texture.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply attending as a guest, this dish is easy to prepare and transport, making it a great option for potlucks. The use of a crockpot guarantees that the casserole stays warm throughout the event, allowing your guests to enjoy it at its best.

With minimal preparation and hands-off cooking, you’ll have more time to focus on other holiday activities or relax with loved ones.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes. Aim for uniform pieces to guarantee even cooking. Place the cubed sweet potatoes into the crockpot.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and beaten eggs. Whisk together until well combined.
3. Combine with Sweet Potatoes: Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes in the crockpot. Stir well to guarantee the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Prepare the Pecan Topping: About 30 minutes before the casserole is done, mix the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until it forms a crumbly mixture.
6. Add the Topping: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the casserole. Re-cover the crockpot and allow it to cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.

Extra Tips:

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of orange juice or some orange zest to the sweet potato mixture. If you prefer a sweeter casserole, you can increase the amount of brown sugar in the base.

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings, particularly the cinnamon and nutmeg, to suit your personal preference. Finally, if you’re transporting the casserole to a potluck, keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting to maintain the ideal serving temperature.

Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken

Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken is a delightful dish perfect for a Christmas potluck. The slow cooker method allows the chicken to soak up the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, offering a succulent and tender result with minimal effort.

This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also offers a warm, comforting meal that will impress your family and friends. You can conveniently set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations.

The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and slow-cooked chicken creates a rich and savory flavor profile that’s both satisfying and festive. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or attending a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. The finished chicken can be served directly from the slow cooker, keeping it warm and ready to enjoy throughout the event.

Here’s how to make this delectable Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken for your next Christmas potluck, serving 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to make certain the skin crisps up in the slow cooker. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor and texture.
3. Place in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned chicken thighs to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
4. Add Flavors: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve directly from the slow cooker to keep warm.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth mixture. For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken thighs in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking.

If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time accordingly as they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Finally, feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste preferences or available ingredients.

Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Crockpot Hot Chocolate is a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings, guaranteeing everyone stays warm and cozy. This slow cooker version allows you to prepare a large batch effortlessly, making it ideal for a Christmas potluck party. The rich, creamy texture and comforting warmth of homemade hot chocolate are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

By using a slow cooker, you can keep the hot chocolate warm throughout your event, allowing guests to serve themselves whenever they wish. This recipe combines classic ingredients like cocoa and milk with a hint of vanilla and a touch of sweetness from sugar. The slow cooking process melds these flavors together beautifully, resulting in a velvety, indulgent drink.

You can even add a few extra touches like whipped cream or marshmallows for a festive finish. Designed to serve 4-6 people, this Crockpot Hot Chocolate will become a staple for your winter celebrations.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by setting your slow cooker to the low heat setting. This will gradually melt the ingredients together, preventing any scorching.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix these well to guarantee that the cocoa and sugar are evenly distributed.
3. Combine with Liquid: Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into the slow cooker. Gradually whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar mixture until it’s completely dissolved in the liquid. This will help prevent any lumps from forming.
4. Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract. This will add depth to the chocolate flavor and a touch of sweetness.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to guarantee the chocolate chips are melting evenly and the mixture is heating uniformly.
6. Serve: Once the hot chocolate is fully heated and the chocolate chips are melted, give it a final stir. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary. Serve directly from the slow cooker, using a ladle. Optionally, top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Extra Tips:

For an extra indulgent touch, you can substitute some of the whole milk with half-and-half for a richer texture. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use dark chocolate chips instead.

To keep the hot chocolate warm throughout your event, leave the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting after it has finished cooking. Stir occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. For a festive feel, consider offering toppings like peppermint sticks or cinnamon for guests to customize their drinks.

Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider

Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider is a warm, aromatic beverage that’s perfect for cozy holiday gatherings. It fills your home with the delightful scent of spices and apples as it simmers gently in the slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a Christmas potluck, as it allows you to focus on other preparations while the cider cooks unattended.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or attending a potluck, this cider will surely be a crowd-pleaser, offering a comforting and festive drink for your guests.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh, natural ingredients. With just a few steps, you can transform ordinary apple juice into a delicious spiced cider that captures the essence of the holiday season. You can make it ahead of time and keep it warm in the slow cooker, allowing guests to help themselves throughout the event.

The blend of spices, citrus, and apple creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s both rejuvenating and soothing.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 gallon of apple juice or apple cider
• 1 orange, sliced
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Optional: apple slices, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the orange into thin rounds and set aside. Measure out the spices and brown sugar, making sure everything is ready to go.
2. Assemble the Cider: Pour the apple juice or cider into the slow cooker. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
3. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the cider to cook for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
4. Strain the Cider: Once the cider has finished cooking, use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the spices and orange slices. This will guarantee a smooth beverage without any solid bits.
5. Serve Warm: Ladle the hot spiced cider into mugs or cups. If desired, garnish with a few apple slices for an extra festive touch.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense flavor, you can prepare the cider a day in advance, allowing it to chill overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the slow cooker. This resting time enables the spices to infuse even further.

If you prefer a less sweet version, adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste. Additionally, for a more adult version, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon just before serving.

Remember to keep the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting once it’s done to make sure the cider stays at the perfect serving temperature throughout your gathering.

Crockpot Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is a classic dessert that’s both comforting and versatile. By utilizing a slow cooker, you can achieve a rich, moist consistency that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. This Crockpot Bread Pudding is a great addition to any Christmas potluck, offering a warm, custardy treat that will delight guests and keep your oven free for other holiday dishes.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor that develops during the slow cooking process. A mix of spices, vanilla, and cream soak into the bread, while the slow cooker guarantees even cooking without the risk of burning. This dessert isn’t only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy the festivities without being tied to the kitchen.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed (preferably French or Italian)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Assemble the Bread Pudding: Place the cubed bread into the slow cooker. If using, scatter the raisins evenly over the bread. Pour the prepared custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula to make sure all pieces are soaked.
4. Cook the Pudding: Drizzle the melted butter on top of the bread mixture. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the pudding is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Serve the Bread Pudding: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and allow the bread pudding to cool slightly. Serve warm, possibly with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee excellent flavor, use bread that’s slightly stale or day-old; fresh bread tends to become too mushy. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.

Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips for different variations. This dish is best enjoyed warm, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently.

Remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, as crockpot heat settings can vary.

Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake

Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to any Christmas potluck. This dessert combines the rich, gooey texture of molten chocolate with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings.

As the cake bakes, the chocolate centers melt, creating a luscious lava-like consistency that’s sure to impress your guests. The best part? This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort and just a few basic ingredients.

When you’re planning your holiday party menu, consider including this Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake as a show-stopping dessert option. Its warm, comforting flavors are perfect for the winter season, and the slow cooker method guarantees that you can focus on enjoying time with your friends and family rather than worrying about dessert.

Serve it straight from the slow cooker with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (divided)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 3/4 cups hot water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Stir well to confirm all dry ingredients are evenly mixed. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and stir until a smooth batter forms.
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
3. Create the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and the brown sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the slow cooker.
4. Add Hot Water: Carefully pour the hot water over the cocoa and sugar topping. Don’t stir; the water will help create the lava-like consistency as the cake cooks.
5. Cook the Cake: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this will release necessary heat.
6. Check for Doneness: After 2 hours, check the cake. The edges should be set and the center should appear slightly gooey. If needed, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Serve: Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Spoon the cake into bowls, ensuring each serving includes some of the gooey chocolate sauce from the bottom. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee the best texture, avoid stirring the hot water into the batter; simply pour it over the top. This will create the signature lava effect.

If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter before cooking. Keep in mind that slow cookers can vary in heat, so check the cake’s progress towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

Finally, this dessert is best enjoyed warm, so serve it shortly after cooking for the ultimate chocolate lava experience.