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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.
Mix Cocoa Powder: Whisk the 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder into the scalded milk until smooth and fully combined.
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.
Add Cocoa Mixture: Pour in the cocoa and milk mixture you prepared earlier and stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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.
Check for Doneness: The hot chocolate is ready when all the chocolate chips have fully melted and the mixture is warm and smooth.
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