Cozy Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe

There’s something magical about sipping warm, creamy hot chocolate when the temperatures drop and the holidays roll in. This crockpot version? It’s next-level indulgence. I’ll never forget the first time I made it for a cozy movie night with my family—it was like wrapping everyone up in a big, chocolatey hug. Plus, it’s so simple, you can let it simmer while you decorate the tree or binge your favorite holiday movies!

If you’ve never had crockpot hot chocolate before, prepare to meet your new winter obsession!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off comfort: Let the crockpot do the work—no stovetop stirring required.
• Rich and creamy: Made with real ingredients for a decadently smooth finish.
• Perfect for gatherings: Keep it warm in the crockpot so guests can serve themselves all evening long.
• Customizable: Toppings galore! Marshmallows, whipped cream, or even a splash of peppermint schnapps—the choice is yours.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Whole Milk: The base for that velvety texture. You can substitute with 2% milk, but I recommend sticking to whole if you can.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes it luscious and rich. Don’t skimp here—it’s the holidays!
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and depth. No need for granulated sugar!
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These melt beautifully into the milk. You can also use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a deeper cocoa flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash to enhance all the flavors.
• Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and bring everything together.

Pro Tip: Want an even richer experience? Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a bolder chocolate flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grease the inside of your crockpot lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Add the whole milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk to the crockpot. Whisk gently to combine.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
4. Cover and set your crockpot to low heat. Let it cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to help the chocolate chips melt evenly.
5. Once the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is creamy, give it a final whisk to make sure everything is well-blended.
6. Switch the crockpot to the “warm” setting and serve with your favorite toppings. Enjoy the warm, chocolatey bliss!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• No heavy cream? Substitute with half-and-half, though it won’t be quite as rich.
• Make-ahead tip: Combine all ingredients in your crockpot ahead of time and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, turn on the crockpot and let it heat slowly.
• To prevent scorching: Stir the mixture every 30-40 minutes while it’s cooking.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract or serve with crushed candy canes as a garnish.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and coconut cream in place of dairy-based milk and heavy cream.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne for Mexican hot chocolate vibes.
• Serve with a variety of toppings like mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra festive touch!

FAQs

Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes! Store any leftover hot chocolate in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, whisking as it warms to restore that creamy texture.

Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! White chocolate makes for a fun twist. Just swap it in and reduce the sweetened condensed milk slightly to avoid it being too sweet.

How many people does this recipe serve?

This recipe makes about 10–12 cups, depending on serving sizes—perfect for a crowd!

Recipe Card

There you have it—comfort in a mug! I can’t wait to hear how this crockpot hot chocolate warms up your holidays. Leave a comment below to share how it turned out and don’t forget to tag me in your creations with #TheKitchensAid on social media. Cheers to cozy moments!