Dumplings in a slow cooker typically take about 45 to 60 minutes to cook once added to the slow cooker. If the slow cooker is set on high heat, dumplings usually need around 45 minutes, whereas on low heat, they take closer to 60 minutes. Dumplings are generally added toward the end of the cooking process, after the main stew or meat has been cooking for several hours—often in the last hour of cooking—to ensure they cook thoroughly and remain fluffy.
