Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy treat for chilly days. It’s rich, creamy, and easy to make, perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends. Let your slow cooker do the work while you relax and enjoy a decadent cup of warmth.

Ingredients

• 4 cups heavy cream (divided)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 cups whole milk
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 12 ounces semi-sweet baking bar (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Your favorite toppings (marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, crushed candy canes)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add 2 cups of the heavy cream to the slow cooker. Whisk in the cocoa powder until fully dissolved and combined; this will take a few minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the remaining 2 cups heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, chopped chocolate, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Place the slow cooker on low heat for 3 hours, stirring every 20 minutes or so, until the chocolate is melted, fully combined, and hot.
4. Step 4: Switch to the warm setting for up to 3 hours for serving. If the hot chocolate gets too thick while it sits, stir in more milk to reach your desired thickness.
5. Step 5: Serve with your favorite toppings such as marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or crushed candy canes for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense flavor.
• For a peppermint twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract along with the vanilla.
• Stir gently and regularly to prevent the milk from scorching at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it will be less creamy.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness. Add a splash of milk if it thickens after cooling.

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 prepare it on the stovetop by gently heating and stirring the ingredients over low heat until smooth and hot. Be careful not to burn the milk.

What toppings work best with this hot chocolate?

Classic toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup complement the rich flavor well. For a festive touch, crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of cinnamon also work beautifully.

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.6 from 99 reviews

This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe is a rich and creamy winter treat perfect for cozy evenings. Made with heavy cream, cocoa powder, milk, sweetened condensed milk, and semi-sweet chocolate, it’s simmered slowly to achieve a decadent, perfectly blended hot chocolate flavor. Serve it with your favorite toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, or crushed candy canes for an irresistible warm beverage that’s easy to prepare and ideal for entertaining or relaxing at home.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 4 cups heavy cream (divided)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 cups whole milk
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

Chocolate and Flavorings

• 12 ounces semi-sweet baking bar (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Toppings (Optional)

• Your favorite toppings such as marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cocoa Base: Add 2 cups of heavy cream to the slow cooker and whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully dissolved and combined. This ensures the cocoa powder integrates smoothly without lumps.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the remaining 2 cups of heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly.
3. Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker on low heat and cook for 3 hours, stirring every 20 minutes. This allows the chocolate to melt completely and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich, creamy hot chocolate.
4. Keep Warm for Serving: After cooking, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting for up to 3 hours while serving. If the hot chocolate thickens too much during this time, stir in additional milk to achieve your preferred consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and garnish with your favorite toppings such as marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or crushed candy canes to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Whisk the cocoa powder into the cream thoroughly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth texture.
• Stirring every 20 minutes helps prevent the mixture from sticking to the slow cooker and promotes even heating and melting.
• You can customize the toppings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• If the hot chocolate becomes too thick, gradually add milk to thin it out without sacrificing flavor.
• This recipe is great for making ahead and keeping warm during gatherings.

Keywords: Hot Chocolate, Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate, Winter Drink, Creamy Hot Chocolate, Slow Cooker Beverage, Chocolate Drink