Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
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Get ready to elevate your winter game with this slow cooker hot chocolate recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this creamy, rich hot cocoa is a hands-off wonder that practically makes itself, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. Ditch the powdered mixes and embrace the art of homemade hot chocolate like never before.
Try topping your cocoa with homemade marshmallows or fresh whipped cream! It’s also a great pairing to biscotti and croissants!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Customizable: Want to add some cinnamon, peppermint, or even a dash of chili powder? A slow cooker makes it easy to experiment and find your perfect flavor combo.
- Consistent Warmth: Unlike stovetop or microwave versions, a slow cooker keeps your hot chocolate at the perfect sippable temperature for hours. No more reheating needed!
- Creamy Consistency: Slow cooking helps in achieving a velvety, uniform texture that’s simply irresistible. Say goodbye to clumpy or watery hot chocolate.
We have a chocolate loving teenager that lives for cocoa season. While we don’t always cave to his wishes, we do like to support his craving on weekends. This hot chocolate crock pot recipe is GOLD and perfect for small gatherings or doubled for a crowd!
The slow simmering process allows the chocolate to fully meld with the milk, creating a luxurious, velvety texture that’s like a warm blanket for your taste buds. The flavors are more pronounced and harmonious, whether you stick to classic chocolate and milk or spice things up with cinnamon, vanilla, or even a dash of chili. It’s hot chocolate, but elevated: the comfort of the classic with a gourmet touch that makes every sip a cozy indulgence.
Searching for something a little different? Try my Whipped Cream Hot Chocolate!
Hot Chocolate Ingredients
You don’t need many ingredients to make a delicious hot chocolate, but you do want to pick quality. Here is what you will need for this crock pot cocoa:
- Milk: I find that the best milk to use is at least 2% but preferably whole milk. That gives you the best rich and creamy finished drink.
- Heavy Cream: This takes the cocoa from good to great, adding a rich and creamy finish.
- Chocolate: I like to do a mix of milk chocolate and semi sweet. However, you can use all of either.
- Sugar: Just a smidge to help add sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla works by enhancing flavors and making everything work together perfectly.
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
This could not be an easier recipe to make! Let’s walk through the process:
- MIX: Combine all of the ingredients into a 3 quart crock pot.
- STIR: Turn the slow cooker on low and cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the chocolate has melted and combined with the milk. Be sure to stir it occasionally to keep it from burning.
- ENJOY: Serve with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for the perfect winter drink.
We love to serve this at family parties, on a cold winter night, or just when we get the craving for something sweet. Try stirring in crushed candy canes or dipping biscotti into a warm glass! Life changing.
Helpful Tools
- Slow Cooker (affiliate): The star of the show. A 4- to 6-quart model should do the trick for most recipes.
- Whisk (affiliate): Crucial for breaking up clumps and ensuring your hot chocolate is smooth as silk.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons (affiliate): Precision is key, even in a forgiving recipe like this. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the perfect cup.
- Ladle (affiliate): For serving up that liquid gold. Opt for one with a spout for spill-free pouring.
Recipe Notes:
Totally! Whole milk is the creamiest option, but skim, almond, oat, and even coconut milk can work. Just note that the type of milk will affect the final texture and flavor.
Yes! Simply prepare the mixture and keep it in the fridge. Transfer it to the slow cooker when you’re ready to heat it up.
Why not? Baileys, Kahlua, or even a spiced rum can add a grown-up kick. Add it just before serving so the alcohol doesn’t cook off.
You can! Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, giving it a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
Go big or go home, right? As long as your slow cooker has the capacity, doubling the recipe shouldn’t be a problem.
Keep your slow cooker on the ‘warm’ setting and let guests serve themselves. A toppings bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles can add a fun touch!
More Cocoa Recipes To Try
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Crock Pot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 6 cups milk
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients into a 3 quart crock pot.
- Turn the slow cooker on low and cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the chocolate has melted and combined with the milk. Be sure to stir it occasionally to keep it from burning.
- Serve with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for the perfect winter drink.
Notes
Nutrition
The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
