Hot Chocolate (Crockpot)
Enjoy a rich, creamy hot chocolate made effortlessly in your crockpot. This slow-simmered recipe blends milk, cream, high-quality chocolate, and warm spices into a luscious drink perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Customizable and comforting, it keeps warm for hours and can be adapted for vegan or spiced variations.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups good-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (semi-sweet or dark)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Spices and Add-ins
- 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of chili powder
- Star anise, nutmeg, or other warming spices to taste
- Crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract for minty flavor
- Marshmallows or a splash of sweetened condensed milk (for extra creaminess)
Dairy-Free Alternative
- Replace whole milk and heavy cream with equal amounts of coconut milk or almond milk
- Use dairy-free chocolate for vegan preference
- Combine Ingredients: Pour whole milk and heavy cream into your crockpot. Add cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. Include any optional spices or extracts at this point to let their flavors infuse during cooking.
- Set the Crockpot: Cover and set crockpot to low heat. Allow the mixture to gently warm and slowly cook for 2 to 3 hours. Stir every 30 to 45 minutes to ensure even melting and to prevent sticking or burning on the crockpot sides. This slow process develops a deep, rich flavor and silky texture.
- Finish and Serve: Once the chocolate has fully melted and the drink is steaming hot, stir in vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients smoothly. Ladle into mugs and add garnishes if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for best melting and rich flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; slow simmering brings out the best taste.
- Stir often to prevent sticking and lumps.
- Taste before serving and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if needed.
- Use a silicone spatula for scraping the crockpot sides and bottom without scratching.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: hot chocolate, crockpot hot chocolate, slow cooker hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, holiday drinks, warm beverages, cozy drinks, vegan hot chocolate option