There is nothing quite like gathering your favorite people and cozying up with a cup of rich, indulgent cocoa, and this Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe is the ultimate way to make that happen. This recipe has perfected the balance of creamy, velvety chocolate blended with just the right touch of sweetness and warmth, all effortlessly achieved while you go about your day. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees a luscious, crowd-pleasing treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe plays a crucial role, combining to create a beautifully balanced drink that’s creamy, chocolaty, and just the right amount of sweet. Using simple pantry staples makes this a fantastic recipe to whip up anytime you want something comforting and delicious.
- Chocolate chips: Provide a smooth, melting chocolate base with rich flavor and silky texture.
- Cocoa powder: Adds a deep, intense chocolate taste that complements the chocolate chips perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Gives a hint of sweetness and blends seamlessly without any grit.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Introduces creamy sweetness and a velvety body to the hot chocolate.
- Heavy cream: Boosts richness and creamy mouthfeel, making each sip luxurious.
- Whole milk: Balances the thickness and adds a smooth, mellow flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate with a warm, aromatic undertone.
- Mini marshmallows: Melt in slowly to add melty sweetness and a fun, fluffy finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by adding the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract into your slow cooker. Use a whisk to blend everything together well so that the flavors start to meld evenly right from the beginning.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set the slow cooker on low and let the magic happen over the next two hours. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom or sides, letting the chocolate completely melt and mix through the creamy base, creating that signature rich hot chocolate texture.
Step 3: Add the Mini Marshmallows
Once the two hours are up, stir in the mini marshmallows and let the mixture sit for about ten minutes. This resting time allows the marshmallows to melt into the hot chocolate, adding extra sweetness and a velvety smooth finish.
Step 4: Keep Warm and Ready to Serve
After the marshmallows have dissolved, your slow cooker hot chocolate is ready to be enjoyed! You can leave it on the warm setting so it’s perfectly cozy and accessible all day long for sipping whenever the mood strikes.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
To truly elevate your cup, think beyond the marshmallows and try adding a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even some chocolate shavings on top. These little touches not only look gorgeous but add delightful layers of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
Hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with a variety of treats. Classic biscotti, buttery cookies, or even soft, warm doughnuts are perfect for dunking. For something savory and unexpected, try serving it with salted pretzels to balance the sweetness with a bit of crunch and saltiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe in festive mugs or glass cups to show off its luscious color. You can layer marshmallows on top or rim the cups with crushed peppermint candy for a fun holiday vibe. For parties, set up a hot chocolate bar with different toppings so everyone can customize their own cup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe leftover, simply pour it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within five days to maintain maximum freshness and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing can slightly change the texture of hot chocolate because of the dairy, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to two months if needed. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your hot chocolate gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at 30-second intervals, stirring frequently to maintain that luscious creaminess without scorching or separating.
FAQs
Can I use milk alternatives in the Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less creamy but still incredibly tasty.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based milk, and a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative. The result is deliciously rich and comforting without any dairy.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! The Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe scales up beautifully. Just use a larger slow cooker if possible, or split into two pots to ensure even cooking.
How long will the hot chocolate stay warm in the slow cooker?
You can keep the hot chocolate on the ‘warm’ setting in your slow cooker for several hours without it losing flavor or quality, making it perfect for parties or long gatherings.
Is it necessary to whisk the ingredients at the beginning?
Whisking at the start helps blend the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth, lump-free hot chocolate. It’s a quick step that makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe, it will surely become your go-to way to enjoy a cozy, effortless cup of pure chocolate bliss. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on a quiet night, and the ease of using a slow cooker means more time relaxing and less time fussing. Warm up your home and your heart with every delicious sip!
Print
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 125 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe creates a rich, creamy, and perfectly sweetened hot beverage ideal for cozy gatherings. Made with a blend of chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and whole milk, it simmers gently in a crockpot to develop deep chocolate flavor. Topped with melted mini marshmallows, this hot chocolate is delightfully smooth and comforting, perfect for serving a crowd of 12 during chilly days or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ cups chocolate chips
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract into a large slow cooker. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined and smooth.
- Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the mixture for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows after the cooking time is complete. Let the hot chocolate sit for about 10 minutes to allow the marshmallows to fully dissolve and incorporate into the drink. Stir again to mix thoroughly.
- Serve and Store: Keep the hot chocolate on the warm setting throughout the day to maintain temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheat gently before serving.
Notes
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the chocolate from sticking to the edges of the slow cooker.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar according to taste.
- Use full-fat milk and cream for a richer taste and creamier texture.
- If mini marshmallows are not available, regular marshmallows chopped into small pieces can be used instead.
- This recipe is best served immediately after warming and marshmallow melting for optimal flavor and texture.
