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How to Bake in a Slow Cooker

These 9 tips for slow cooker baking will help you make cakes, yeast breads, and more!

By: Editors, AllFreeSlowCookerRecipes.com

Did you know you could make delicious baked goods in your slow cooker? You can prepare easy cake recipes in your slow cooker, quick bread recipes, and even yeast breads by following a few simple tricks and tips. This guide for How to Bake in a Slow Cooker will help demystify slow cooker baking and allow you to harness the full functionality of your slow cooker.

Baking in your slow cooker allows you to make great use out of an everyday appliance. It is also convenient because you can make baked goods in the summer without turning on the oven and heating up the house. It's also perfect for maximizing oven space and efficiency on busy baking days.

Follow our tips on slow cooker baking below and then try out some new recipes!

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1. To bake in a slow cooker, you can either:

  • Pour the batter directly in the slow cooker.
  • Set a baking pan inside the slow cooker.
Slow cookers sometimes come with a baking insert that is perfect for utilizing your slow cooker's baking function.

But if you do not have this accessory, you can use a cooking vessel that fits inside your slow cooker! Some ideas include:
  • Loaf pan
  • Small springform pan
  • Ramekins
  • Mason jars

See how to use a baking pan inside your slow cooker with the video below for Rise and Shine Slow Cooker Coffee Cake.
 

2. Only fill your baking pan halfway.

Just like in a normal oven, your baked goods will rise a significant amount.

3. If you’re setting a pan inside the slow cooker, set a baking rack in the bottom of the slow cooker.

This allows the heat of the slow cooker to surround the food as it bakes. If you don’t have a rack that will fit, try elevating the baking pan with crumpled up balls of aluminum foil.

4. Remember to grease your slow cooker or baking pan before pouring in the batter.

This will ensure a clean and easy release when the baked goods are done. You could grease and flour your slow cooker to be on the safe side.

5. Try using parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Set the parchment paper in the slow cooker and spray it with some non-stick cooking spray. This is especially good for baking bread or rolls so you can easily lift them out of the slow cooker. 

6. Trap the condensation that develops under the lid with a layer of paper towels.

This prevents baked goods from getting soggy on top. 

You can do this by placing layers of paper towels directly over your baking vessel, or by lining the lid of the slow cooker with paper towels or a dish cloth. 

You can also slightly prop the slow cooker's lid with a spoon to allow steam to escape.

7. Only lift the lid near the end of the baking time.

Peeking too often will significantly lower the slow cooker's temperature. You also run the risk of condensation dripping on the bake good.

8. Use the high setting when baking in your slow cooker.

Also be sure to preheat the slow cooker (without the insert), just like you would a normal oven.

9. Use pot holders when removing the baked goods from the slow cooker!

Use the same caution you’d use for the oven. Whether you’re holding onto the insert or a baking pan inside the slow cooker, be sure to use pot holders or a kitchen towel to protect your hands.

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