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Crock Pot Hot Chocolate Recipe

4.4 from 113 reviews

This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate recipe offers a rich, creamy, and indulgent warm beverage perfect for cozy gatherings or relaxing winter evenings. By slow-cooking a blend of whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa, and chocolate chips, this method ensures a smooth, velvety hot chocolate that can be easily served over time.

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy and Liquids

  • 7 cups whole milk (divided)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk

Chocolate and Flavorings

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate chips for a sweeter version)
  • 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt (optional, enhances the chocolate flavor)

Instructions

  1. Warm the Milk and Dissolve Cocoa Powder: Heat 1 cup of whole milk in a saucepan or microwave until warm but not boiling. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully dissolved to create a smooth chocolate base.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Pour the cocoa-infused warm milk into the Crock Pot. Add the remaining 6 cups of whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Cook on Low Heat: Cover the Crock Pot and set it to low heat. Let the mixture cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate chips melt evenly and the mixture blends smoothly.
  4. Whisk to Combine and Keep Warm: After the cooking time, whisk the hot chocolate thoroughly to achieve a uniform, creamy texture. Switch the Crock Pot setting to “keep warm” if serving over an extended period to maintain temperature without overcooking.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and garnish with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon according to preference for an extra touch of indulgence.

Notes

  • Use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter drink.
  • A pinch of salt is optional but brings out the chocolate flavor effectively.
  • Stirring occasionally during cooking helps prevent scorching and ensures even melting.
  • Keep Warm setting on the Crock Pot is ideal for long serving times.
  • For vegan adaptation, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, but cooking times may vary.

Keywords: hot chocolate, crock pot hot chocolate, slow cooker hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, chocolate drink, winter beverage