Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate

Slow cooker hot chocolate is a rich, velvety drink that’s perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a warm, comforting treat. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, this indulgent drink is a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: The slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up for other tasks.
• Luxuriously Creamy: Slow cooking creates an incredibly smooth and creamy texture.
• Perfect for Crowds: Ideal for serving at parties or family get-togethers.
• Customizable: Add your favorite flavors or toppings to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Cocoa powder
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
2. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on the low setting for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly.
3. Stir and Serve: Once the hot chocolate is fully heated and creamy, stir well before serving.
4. Add Toppings: Ladle into mugs and garnish with marshmallows, whipped cream, or crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 cups
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2-3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a holiday twist.
• Spiced Chocolate: Stir in a cinnamon stick, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or nutmeg for a Mexican-inspired flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce into the slow cooker and sprinkle with sea salt.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Mocha Hot Chocolate: Add a cup of brewed coffee for a caffeinated treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, but it will result in a sweeter drink. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker if needed.

How do I prevent the chocolate from clumping?

Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure the chocolate melts smoothly and doesn’t stick to the sides.

Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in the slow cooker and keep it on the “warm” setting for up to 4 hours before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chocolate chips and cocoa powder.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips provide the best balance of flavor, but you can use milk or white chocolate for a sweeter variation.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, combine the ingredients in a large pot and heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until fully melted and smooth.

How can I make this less rich?

Substitute 2% milk for whole milk or reduce the amount of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Can I add alcohol to this hot chocolate?

Yes, for an adult version, stir in a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or peppermint schnapps before serving.

What can I serve with this hot chocolate?

Pair it with cookies, biscotti, or slices of pound cake for a delightful treat.

Conclusion

Slow cooker hot chocolate is the ultimate winter indulgence—creamy, rich, and effortlessly prepared. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, it’s a versatile recipe that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings, and enjoy a warm cup of happiness with minimal effort. Whip up a batch today and savor the magic of homemade hot chocolate!

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