Intended Use: Cooking dinner while you're at the office.
Bright Idea: Use it to bake a moist, light cake you serve in a bowl.

The last thing you want to do in the heat of summer is turn on the oven to bake anything, husband's birthday or no. That slow cooker you've had since the 70s can save the day while you run out to grab a last-minute gift.

Crock-Pot Cake

Prepare cake-mix batter according to the package directions. Coat the bottom and sides of the pot with vegetable cooking spray, then pour in the batter. Cook on the low setting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. When a tooth- pick stuck in the center of the cake comes out clean, it's done. Let the cake cool for 30 minutes or until the center is set. Serve it warm or at room temperature, spooned into bowls, drizzled with chocolate sauce, and topped with whipped cream.

Other Uses

Wrap marinated chicken or vegetables in parchment paper, and cook in the pot until done (the timing will depend on the food's size).

Use the pot to make hot beverages, such as mulled cider, and keep them hot during a party.

Serve cheese fondue from your Crock-Pot, kept on a low setting.