There's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of creamy, rich hot chocolate. Yet, the thought of constantly stirring a pot to achieve that perfect consistency can be daunting. That's where our Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe comes in! With a bit of forethought and the magic of your crockpot, you can have a deliciously smooth and chocolatey beverage ready to warm you up on those chillier days.
As the chill of winter steadily approaches, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm mug of hot chocolate.
And not just any hot chocolate, but a rich, creamy concoction that's been slowly brewed in your trusty slow cooker.
This Crockpot Hot Chocolate recipe is a delightful blend of cocoa powder, milk, semi-sweet chocolate, and a hint of vanilla, creating a heavenly beverage that's so much more than just a drink—it's an experience.
The beauty of using a slow cooker for this recipe is that it allows the flavors to meld together perfectly over time, resulting in a hot chocolate with a depth of flavor unmatched by any store-bought version.
Each sip of this recipe for crockpot hot chocolate is like a cozy hug, making even the coldest winter day feel a little warmer.
Ingredients
- Milk - This recipe calls for 7 cups of milk. You can use regular dairy whole milk, but if you're lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk work just as well.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder - Cocoa powder is what gives this hot chocolate in the crockpot its deep, chocolate flavor. It's unsweetened, so it balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients perfectly.
- Sugar or Swerve - A couple of tablespoons of sugar add just the right amount of sweetness to this hot chocolate. If you're watching your sugar intake, Swerve, a natural, zero-calorie sweetener, is a fantastic substitute that doesn't compromise on taste.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate - The addition of semi-sweet chocolate takes this recipe to another level. It melts into the hot chocolate, giving it an extra layer of richness and depth.
- Vanilla Extract - Vanilla extract brings a sweet, creamy flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. It's a subtle undertone that makes a difference in the final result.
- Peppermint Extract (Optional) - If you're a fan of mint-chocolate combinations, adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract will give your hot chocolate a refreshing twist. Adjust the amount according to your preference—remember, a little goes a long way!
Tips and Tricks
- Sweeten with Condensed Milk - Looking for a twist on traditional crock pot hot chocolate? Try substituting part of the regular milk with sweetened condensed milk. This creamy, sweet addition not only adds a unique flavor but also gives your hot chocolate an extra velvety texture. It's like having dessert in a cup!
- Top it Off - The fun doesn't stop once your hot chocolate is ready. You can add some excitement to your cup with toppings like crushed candy canes, fluffy marshmallows, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It's a great way to customize your hot chocolate and make it even more indulgent. Plus, kids absolutely love this part!
- Stir it Up - Don't forget to give your hot chocolate a good stir every now and then as it cooks. This ensures that the cocoa powder and sugar are well incorporated, and that the semi-sweet chocolate melts evenly.
- Keep it Warm - Planning a holiday party or family movie night? Your slow cooker can double as a hot chocolate warmer! After the hot chocolate is done cooking, just set your slow cooker to the 'warm' setting. This way, everyone can help themselves to a warm cup of cocoa anytime.
- Experiment with Flavors - Once you've mastered the basic recipe, don't be afraid to get creative with flavors. Try adding a dash of cinnamon for a Mexican-inspired version, or a splash of coffee for a mocha spin. The possibilities are endless!
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Stovetop Instructions
If you don't have a crockpot, you can make this on the stovetop. To do this, warm milk, canned coconut milk, cocoa powder, and Swerve sweetener in a saucepan, stirring frequently.
More Slow Cooker Recipes to Try
- Crockpot Peanut Clusters - Imagine the joy on your family's faces when you surprise them with these delightfully crunchy and deliciously sweet Crockpot Peanut Clusters—an easy treat that turns ordinary peanuts into a gourmet delight!
- Slow Cooker Apple Crisp - Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with our Slow Cooker Apple Crisp, a heartwarming dessert filled with tender apples and a crispy oat topping that's as comforting as a hug from grandma.
- Crockpot Turkey Breast - Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones with our Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe, which promises a juicy, flavorful centerpiece for your holiday table without all the fuss.
- Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes - Say goodbye to the last-minute rush of preparing side dishes—our Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and can be kept warm right until it's time to eat, making them a stress-free addition to any meal.
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Easy CrockPot Hot Chocolate
There's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of creamy, rich hot chocolate. Yet, the thought of constantly stirring a pot to achieve that perfect consistency can be daunting. That's where our Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe comes in! With a bit of forethought and the magic of your crockpot, you can have a deliciously smooth and chocolatey beverage ready to warm you up on those chillier days.
Servings: 16
Calories: 129kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 7 cups Milk regular or dairy free
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar or Swerve
- 6 ounce semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract more or less to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Add milk, cocoa powder, sweetener, chocolate, vanilla extract and peppermint extract to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 house, stirring occasionally.
Notes
Variations
- In place of the chocolate bar and peppermint extract, use mint chocolate.
- Make this keto by using heavy cream in place of the milk and coconut milk.
- Omit the peppermint extract and inside add 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon ground ginger for Spiced Hot Chocolate.
Nutrition
Calories: 129kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 42mg | Potassium: 242mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 178IU | Calcium: 140mg | Iron: 1mg
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