Why the Crockpot Hot Dogs Is Great Crockpot Recipe
One of the best things about the Crockpot Chocolate Cake recipe is its simplicity and convenience.
I love how I can just mix a few ingredients, pour them into the crockpot, and let it do the work while I focus on other tasks. The process is so straightforward, and the result is a rich, moist cake that feels like a treat.
I can set it up in the morning and enjoy it later without worrying about constant monitoring. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze!
This recipe truly makes dessert enjoyable without the fuss, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Ingredients of Crockpot Hot Dogs
When it comes to whipping up something sweet for dessert, the Crockpot Chocolate Cake is a delightful choice. The beauty of this recipe is that it blends together some pantry staples to create a rich, chocolatey indulgence without the fuss of baking in an oven.
Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of a cake that practically makes itself? Just imagine the aroma wafting through your home as it cooks, making everyone think you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours, when really, you just mixed a few ingredients and pressed a button. It’s like magic, I tell you.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Chocolate Cake:
- 1 cup Bisquick
- 1 cup sugar (divided into two parts)
- 1/3 cup baking cocoa
- 3 tablespoons baking cocoa
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 2/3 cups hot tap water
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients for a moment. You might be wondering, can I substitute anything? Well, if you’re low on Bisquick, you could try a homemade pancake mix or even make your own using flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
And what about the sugar? You could use a sugar substitute if you’re looking to cut back on calories, but I can’t promise the same level of delectable sweetness. Also, make sure your cocoa powder is fresh for that rich chocolate flavor; expired cocoa is a total party pooper.
How to Make Crockpot Hot Dogs
Making the Crockpot Chocolate Cake is as easy as pie—except, you know, it’s actually cake. Start by gathering your ingredients: you’ll need 1 cup of Bisquick, 1 cup of sugar (divided into two parts), 1/3 cup of baking cocoa, and 3 tablespoons of baking cocoa. Don’t forget the 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 2/3 cups of hot tap water. Got everything? Great! Now, grab a mixing bowl and let’s plunge into it.
In your mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Bisquick, 1/2 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa, the milk, and the vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth. It’s okay if it’s a little lumpy; we’re not making a soufflé here.
Just pour that glorious chocolatey goodness into a greased crockpot—3.5 quarts is perfect, but if you only have a larger one, just make sure to keep an eye on it as it cooks. Now, for the magic part: in another bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/3 cup of cocoa, and the hot tap water. Carefully pour this over the batter in the crockpot. Seriously, don’t stir it together. Just let it sit there, looking all layered and beautiful.
Now, cover and set your crockpot to high. It’ll need to cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours. The tantalizing aroma of chocolate will soon fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s hard not to sneak a spoonful—though I recommend waiting.
When the time is up, you’ll find that the cake has risen to the top, floating on a delicious hot fudge sauce. It’s like a chocolatey dream come true. Serve it warm, maybe with a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling fancy, and bask in the glory of your effortless dessert. You did that!
Crockpot Hot Dogs Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy crockpot hot dogs while keeping your carb count low, there are plenty of delicious substitutions and variations you can try.
Instead of traditional hot dog buns, I love using lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas. You can also swap out regular hot dogs for turkey or chicken sausages, which tend to have fewer carbs.
For added flavor, toss in diced bell peppers or onions while they cook. If you’re craving a bit of crunch, top your hot dogs with chopped pickles or relish, ensuring they’re low-sugar.
These tweaks keep my meals satisfying and low-carb!
What to Serve with Crockpot Hot Dogs
While enjoying my crockpot hot dogs, I often think about what sides can elevate the meal. A classic choice is crispy coleslaw; its crunch and tangy flavor perfectly complement the savory hot dogs.
I also love serving baked beans on the side; the sweetness pairs beautifully with the smoky taste of the hot dogs. For something lighter, a fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette works wonders.
And let’s not forget about chips—whether potato or tortilla, they add that satisfying crunch. These sides not only enhance the meal but also create a fun, casual dining experience!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
After enjoying the delicious sides with my crockpot hot dogs, I often think about how to make my meals a bit healthier.
To decrease calories in my chocolate cake, I swap half the sugar for a sugar substitute like stevia. I also use unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the oil or butter, which keeps it moist without the extra calories.
Additionally, I choose whole wheat flour instead of Bisquick for added fiber, and I lighten up the hot fudge sauce with Greek yogurt mixed in.
These small changes let me indulge without the guilt!