Crockpot hot chocolate recipe

By Adeline Parker

Published •

Crockpot hot chocolate recipe

This slow cooker hot chocolate recipe delivers the richest, silkiest chocolate experience. It truly changes the game for cozy drink making. The deep cocoa flavor marries beautifully with the heavy cream base. Making this Crockpot hot chocolate recipe means effortless decadence for everyone gathered around.

Frankly, I rely on this recipe constantly during the holidays. It stays perfectly warm for hours, waiting for guests. Everyone asks for my secret to such creamy hot chocolate. It’s simply the magic of the slow cooker working its low and slow wonder.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore making this when life gets busy. It requires almost zero active time. The resulting flavor is far better than any powdered mix. Plus, it keeps a crowd happy effortlessly. It is my go-to for easy entertaining.

  • Ultimate Creaminess: Hello, whole milk and heavy cream!
  • Set It and Forget It: True slow cooker ease.
  • Incredible Flavor: Deeply satisfying chocolate notes.

Crockpot hot chocolate recipe Ingredients

Assembling the parts for this wonderful drink is simple. We are building layers of deep chocolate pleasure here. Achieving that signature smooth texture starts right now with quality components.

Here are the core components for our Crockpot hot chocolate recipe:

  • Milk and Heavy Cream provide the rich, liquid foundation.
  • Granulated Sugar offers necessary sweetness, balancing the cocoa’s bitterness.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder brings intense, classic chocolate depth.
  • Vanilla Extract is like a little hug for the overall flavor profile.
  • Salt balances all the sweetness, making the chocolate really pop.
  • Chocolate Chips melt down to create that luxurious, thick texture.

Substitutions and Tips

If you prefer less richness, you can swap some whole milk for 2% milk. However, I suggest keeping the heavy cream; it is key for this creamy hot chocolate. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper. These additions wake up the chocolate beautifully. Remember, exact amounts go into the recipe card below. That card is your best friend for quick referencing.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You do not need fancy gear for this treat. A standard slow cooker works perfectly well. Here are the few items required for preparation:

  • 6-Quart Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
  • Whisk or sturdy spatula for blending
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mugs for serving

How to Make Crockpot hot chocolate recipe

Making this easy hot chocolate happens in just a few straightforward movements. Following these steps ensures you get that wonderfully smooth result every time. We want zero lumps in our delicious brew.

Preparing the Base Liquids

First, pour the measured milk and heavy cream into your slow cooker insert. Do this gently, if you can. This begins the process of making our creamy hot chocolate base. It seems simple, but this step starts the magic.

Whisking the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt right into the liquid. Whisk everything together really well. You must ensure no dry pockets of cocoa powder remain. A thoroughly combined base prevents any gritty texture later on.

Melting the Chocolate

Now toss in all those lovely chocolate chips. Stir them into the liquid mixture completely. Cover the slow cooker for cooking time. This starts the long, slow melting process. Soon, we will have perfect slow cooker hot chocolate.

Finalizing and Serving

Cook on LOW for about 2 or 3 hours, or HIGH for 1.5 hours maximum. Stir it every thirty minutes or so. Stirring prevents scorching on the bottom, you know. Once smooth, give it one last good swirl. Then, ladle this amazing Crockpot hot chocolate recipe into waiting mugs.

How to Store Crockpot hot chocolate recipe

Storing any leftovers is quite simple for this beverage. Refrigerate any extra creamy hot chocolate in an airtight container. It keeps well for about three to four days. Freezing is also possible for later use. Pour cooled portions into freezer-safe bags first. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Tips for Success

Keep these pointers in mind for the best experience. Good ingredients make all the difference here. Stirring occasionally is non-negotiable for avoiding hot spots. Taste before serving to check sweetness levels. If it needs more zing, add more vanilla extract. This simple trick always elevates the finished drink.

  • Use whole milk for the thickest texture possible.
  • Stir frequently while cooking on LOW heat settings.
  • Don’t skip the small pinch of salt.
  • Taste test before adding extra sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation truly makes this drink special for guests. Offer a beautiful topping bar nearby. Marshmallows are always a crowd favorite, of course. Try layering shaved dark chocolate over whipped cream peaks. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds flair, too. Enjoying this Crockpot hot chocolate recipe is an event!

  • A mountain of mini marshmallows
  • Freshly whipped cream dollops
  • Chocolate shavings or sprinkles
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Crockpot hot chocolate recipe

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  • Author: Adeline Parker
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-3 hours (LOW) or 1-1.5 hours (HIGH)
  • Total Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
  • Yield: Approximately 10-12 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A simple and delicious recipe for making hot chocolate in a slow cooker (Crockpot), resulting in a rich and creamy treat perfect for gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 6 cups milk (whole milk for creamier results)
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings


Instructions

  1. Pour milk and heavy cream into a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
  2. Whisk in the sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and no lumps of cocoa remain.
  3. Stir in the chocolate chips.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours, or on HIGH for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is hot and smooth.
  5. Give it a final stir before serving.
  6. Ladle into mugs and top with your favorite additions like whipped cream or marshmallows.

Notes

  • Using whole milk will result in a creamier hot chocolate.
  • Adjust the amount of chocolate chips to suit your preference for sweetness and chocolate intensity.
  • Stirring occasionally prevents scorching, especially on the bottom of the slow cooker.

Categorized in:

Breakfast
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