If you’re dreaming of the perfect cozy treat to warm your soul on a chilly day, you’ve just found it with this Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe. Rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make, it turns simple pantry ingredients into a velvety indulgence that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or just need a cozy night in, this hot chocolate elevates the classic winter drink to a whole new level of comfort and joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, familiar, and each plays a vital role in creating that perfect cup of creamy, chocolatey goodness. From the rich whole milk to the luscious heavy cream, every element contributes texture, taste, and that irresistible smoothness.
- 5 cups whole milk: Provides the creamy base that makes the hot chocolate smooth and satisfying.
- 16 ounces heavy whipping cream: Adds luxurious richness and a velvety mouthfeel.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor with just the right hint of bitterness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the drink perfectly without overpowering the cocoa.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate notes with a warm, fragrant aroma.
- Pinch of kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens the overall flavor.
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips: Melts into creamy pockets of melty chocolate throughout the crock pot.
How to Make Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Milks and Cocoa
Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into your crock pot. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt. Whisk everything together until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This ensures every sip has an even, rich chocolate flavor without any lumps.
Step 2: Stir in the Chocolate Chips
Toss in the milk chocolate chips and stir gently until they melt and meld with the creamy base. This step adds those delightful bursts of chocolatey sweetness that make this Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe extra special and decadent.
Step 3: Let It Cook Low and Slow
Set your crock pot to low and let the magic happen for about 1 hour. The gentle heat allows the flavors to blend fully and the chocolate to melt perfectly, creating a silky, dreamy texture that’s hard to resist.
Step 4: Whisk Before Serving
Once the hour is up, give your hot chocolate a good whisk to smooth out any residual chocolate bits and ensure the drink is perfectly combined and creamy for serving.
Step 5: Keep Warm and Serve
Switch your crock pot to the warm setting to keep the hot chocolate at the ideal temperature. This lets everyone enjoy a fresh cup straight from the pot whenever they want without worrying about it cooling down too quickly.
How to Serve Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
Top off your cup with classic marshmallows, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or grated chocolate for a fabulous finishing touch. These little extras not only look beautiful but add layers of flavor and texture that make each sip even more delightful.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside buttery homemade cookies, warm cinnamon rolls, or fresh-baked muffins to turn this simple drink into a memorable treat. The slightly sweet and spiced flavors of baked goods complement the richness of the hot chocolate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, pour the hot chocolate into mugs rimmed with crushed peppermint or cocoa powder. You could even layer it in a clear glass with alternating whipped cream for a pretty, café-style presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe leftover, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy your favorite cozy drink again the next day.
Freezing
While freezing hot chocolate isn’t usually recommended because the texture can separate, you can freeze it in ice cube trays to use later in baking recipes or smoothies if you don’t want it to go to waste.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, warm the hot chocolate gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, whisking occasionally to restore its creamy texture. Avoid rapid heating to keep it smooth and prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk in this Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind skim milk will produce a lighter and less creamy hot chocolate. For the richest texture, whole milk is best.
What if I don’t have a crock pot? Can I make this on the stove?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is hot and smooth. Just keep a close eye so it doesn’t scorch.
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate?
Definitely! Dark chocolate chips will give your hot chocolate a more intense and slightly bitter flavor, which pairs nicely with the sweetness. Adjust the sugar if you prefer.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?
Yes, swap the whole milk and heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make this recipe vegan and dairy-free-friendly.
How long will the hot chocolate stay warm in the crock pot?
On the warm setting, your Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe can stay deliciously warm for up to 2 hours, perfect for gatherings or slow sipping.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe is pure comfort in a cup, perfect for any time you want a little luxury with minimal effort. Cozy up with a mug, invite friends over, and enjoy the rich, creamy warmth this recipe brings. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever made hot chocolate any other way.
Print
Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a rich and creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate that is perfectly smooth and irresistibly chocolatey. This easy slow cooker recipe combines whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips to create a warm, comforting drink that’s perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 5 cups whole milk
- 16 ounces heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of kosher salt
Other
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the whole milk, heavy whipping cream, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt into the crock pot. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform, ensuring the cocoa powder is fully incorporated.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the milk chocolate chips gently but thoroughly, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture to melt later during cooking.
- Cook: Set the crock pot to low and cook the mixture for 1 hour. This low and slow cooking allows the chocolate chips and cocoa powder to fully melt and blend with the milk and cream, creating a luscious hot chocolate.
- Whisk Before Serving: After cooking, whisk the hot chocolate again to ensure any settled chocolate is fully mixed in and the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Serve Warm: Switch the crock pot setting to warm and serve the hot chocolate directly from the slow cooker to keep it at the perfect drinking temperature throughout your gathering.
Notes
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with dairy alternatives if desired.
- Adjust the sugar level to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet hot chocolate.
- For extra richness, swirl in a bit of whipped cream or marshmallows when serving.
- This recipe is perfect for entertaining as it keeps the hot chocolate warm for hours.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the crock pot.
