Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction

This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate is the perfect warm and creamy treat for chilly days. Made with rich chocolate chips, creamy milk, and a touch of vanilla, it’s easy to prepare and keeps nicely warm for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 6 cups whole milk (divided use)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl or cup, microwave 1 cup whole milk until scalding but not boiling. You can also heat it on the stove in a small saucepan.
2. Step 2: Whisk the unsweetened cocoa powder into the hot milk until fully combined.
3. Step 3: In a 4-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the sweetened condensed milk, remaining 5 cups whole milk, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
4. Step 4: Stir in the cocoa and milk mixture made earlier.
5. Step 5: Cover and cook on low for about 2 hours, whisking often as the mixture warms. Stirring helps melt the chocolate chips evenly and prevents them from clumping at the bottom.
6. Step 6: The hot chocolate is ready when all the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is hot.
7. Step 7: Ladle into mugs and top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream and a mini candy cane if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Whisk often during cooking to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and the hot chocolate stays smooth.
• For a peppermint twist, add a drop or two of peppermint extract along with the vanilla.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
• Serve with crushed candy canes or cinnamon sticks for festive garnish.

Storage

Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore its creamy texture. If the mixture thickens too much after chilling, add a splash of milk when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this hot chocolate without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe on the stove over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid scorching and ensure the chocolate melts smoothly.

Can I use any type of milk?

Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 121 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate recipe is a rich and creamy treat perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights in. Made with a blend of cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, heavy whipping cream, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, slow-cooked to silky perfection, then served with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for a delightful finish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 6 cups whole milk (divided use)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For Serving

• Mini marshmallows
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Mini candy cane (optional)

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Instructions

1. Scald the Milk: In a microwave-safe bowl or cup, heat 1 cup of whole milk until scalding but not boiling. Alternatively, you can heat it gently in a small saucepan on the stovetop.
2. Mix Cocoa Powder: Whisk the 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder into the scalded milk until smooth and fully combined.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a 4-quart or larger slow cooker, add the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk, remaining 5 cups of whole milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, and 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.
4. Add Cocoa Mixture: Pour in the cocoa and milk mixture you prepared earlier and stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
5. Cook and Stir: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 2 hours. Frequently whisk the mixture as it begins to warm to ensure the chocolate chips melt evenly and prevent any clumping or burning on the bottom.
6. Check for Doneness: The hot chocolate is ready when all the chocolate chips have fully melted and the mixture is warm and smooth.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, and a mini candy cane if desired for a festive touch.

Notes

• Whisking often during cooking is essential to avoid clumps of melted chocolate and ensure an even texture.
• Use whole milk and heavy cream for a rich and creamy hot chocolate, but you can adjust milk type for lighter versions.
• You can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting coconut milk or almond milk and using dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the chocolate flavor if you find it too sweet.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Beverages
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: hot chocolate, crock pot, slow cooker, cocoa, chocolate drink, winter beverage, holiday drink, creamy hot chocolate