Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Crockpot Hot Chocolate is the perfect cozy treat for chilly days. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with chocolatey goodness that warms you up from the inside out. The best part…
Tip: save now, cook later.Crockpot Hot Chocolate is the perfect cozy treat for chilly days. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with chocolatey goodness that warms you up from the inside out. The best part is how simple it is—you just combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and a little vanilla in your slow cooker, and let it gently cook to creamy perfection.
I love how this hot chocolate stays warm and ready to sip all afternoon, so you can pour a cup whenever you want without waiting. I usually add marshmallows or a dollop of whipped cream on top to make it extra special. It’s also fun to let everyone add their own toppings, like cinnamon, peppermint, or even a splash of flavored syrup.
This crockpot version is my go-to for parties or casual afternoons with family and friends. It fills the kitchen with that cozy chocolate smell and makes the whole house feel inviting. Honestly, once you try making hot chocolate this way, you’ll want to keep the slow cooker out all winter long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk & Cream: Whole milk makes the hot chocolate creamy and rich. You can swap it for almond, oat, or soy milk if you prefer a dairy-free version. Adding heavy cream boosts the richness, but you can skip it for a lighter drink.
Chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate chips melt nicely and add great flavor. If you don’t have chips, chopped chocolate or even good-quality baking chocolate works great.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that deep chocolate taste. Natural or Dutch-processed cocoa are both fine – just note that Dutch-processed is milder and darker.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens just right, but feel free to use brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup for a different touch.
How Do I Keep the Hot Chocolate Smooth and Prevent It from Burning?
Slow cooking hot chocolate takes patience to avoid burning or clumps. Here’s what helps:
- Add the cocoa powder and sugar first, whisk well to dissolve before adding chocolate chips.
- Don’t stir right after adding chocolate—the heat will gently melt it.
- Stir the mix every 30 minutes during cooking to blend everything and stop it from sticking to the crockpot sides.
- Keep the heat low; high heat makes the milk burn and chocolate seize.
- Once melted and smooth, stir in vanilla at the end for the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – perfect for gently warming and melting the chocolate without burning.
- Whisk – helps mix the cocoa powder and sugar smoothly into the milk.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the ingredients just right.
- Ladle – makes serving hot chocolate easy and mess-free.
- Heatproof mugs – to keep your hot chocolate warm and cozy while you enjoy it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, autumn twist that pairs well with chocolate.
- Stir in a shot of espresso or instant coffee to make a mocha-flavored hot chocolate.
- Mix in peppermint extract or top with crushed candy canes for a refreshing holiday vibe.
- Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate for a different flavor profile and sweetness level.
How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Marshmallows (for topping)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and then 2 to 3 hours cooking time in the crockpot on low heat. Stirring every 30 minutes is needed to keep the hot chocolate smooth and prevent it from sticking. There’s no additional chilling or resting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine and Mix Ingredients:
Pour the milk and heavy cream into your crockpot. Add the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these together well so everything dissolves smoothly and there are no lumps.
2. Add Chocolate and Cook:
Scatter the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate on top but don’t stir yet. Cover your crockpot with the lid and cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours. Every 30 minutes, gently stir to help the chocolate melt evenly and stop anything from sticking to the sides.
3. Finish and Serve:
Once the chocolate is completely melted and your hot chocolate is smooth and creamy, stir in the vanilla extract. Switch your crockpot to the “keep warm” setting so it stays perfectly hot for serving. Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, then top with marshmallows and whipped cream. Add chocolate shavings or sprinkles for a fun finish if you like. Serve right away and enjoy your cozy treat!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond, oat, soy, or any other non-dairy milk you prefer. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly less creamy, so adding a bit of coconut cream or non-dairy creamer can help maintain richness.
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Without a Crockpot?
Absolutely! You can prepare this on the stovetop using low heat. Just whisk the ingredients together in a saucepan, heat gently, and stir frequently until smooth and warm.
What Toppings Work Best with Crockpot Hot Chocolate?
Classic marshmallows and whipped cream are always favorites! You can also try chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel or flavored syrups for extra indulgence.
