Description
This rich and creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate recipe combines cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, heavy cream, and semi-sweet chocolate chips to create the perfect warming drink. Slow-cooked to melt the chocolate evenly, this easy recipe yields a decadent hot chocolate that can be served with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole milk (for scalding)
Main Hot Chocolate Mixture
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 5 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
For Serving
- Mini marshmallows
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Mini candy cane (optional)
Instructions
- Scald the Milk: In a microwave-safe bowl or cup, heat 1 cup of whole milk until it’s scalding but not boiling. Alternatively, you can heat this milk gently in a small saucepan on the stovetop.
- Mix Cocoa with Milk: Whisk the 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder into the scalded milk until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a 4-quart or larger slow cooker, add the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk, remaining 5 cups whole milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, and 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Add Cocoa Mixture: Pour the cocoa powder and scalded milk mixture into the slow cooker with the other ingredients and stir to combine.
- Cook and Stir: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 2 hours. Stir or whisk frequently as the mixture warms to ensure the chocolate chips melt evenly and incorporate smoothly, preventing clumps from forming.
- Check for Readiness: The hot chocolate is ready when all the chocolate chips have fully melted and the mixture is warm and smooth.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or a mini candy cane as desired. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Stirring often during cooking helps prevent chocolate from clumping on the bottom.
- You can customize toppings with whipped cream, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes for festive flair.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives but be mindful the texture will differ slightly.
- If you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or use dark chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American