Crockpot Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink that wraps you in warmth from the inside out. Perfect for chilly mornings, holiday gatherings, or relaxed nights by the fire, this rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe elevates classic comfort with effortless slow cooker convenience. Whether you serve it to guests or savor a cup yourself, this recipe blends velvety chocolate, smooth milk, and indulgent sweetness into every sip. With options for dairy free and vegan variations, it’s a versatile crowd‑pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Get ready for a cup of bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Hot Chocolate
There are countless reasons you will adore this Crockpot Hot Chocolate recipe. It’s unbelievably simple, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and virtually no hands‑on time. The slow cooker does all the work, gently melting the chocolate and melding flavors into a luxuriously creamy drink. Unlike powdered mixes, this recipe delivers real chocolate flavor and a silky texture that tastes like it came from a café. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a quiet treat, this hot chocolate feels comforting and festive. And because you can easily adapt it to dairy free or vegan diets, everyone can cozy up with a mug of pure deliciousness.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need for this delicious Crockpot Hot Chocolate:
- 5 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half and half cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a rich, smooth hot chocolate that’s just sweet enough and deeply chocolatey. You can find most of these items in your pantry or easily at the grocery store.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Here’s how to make this cozy hot beverage in your slow cooker:
- Prepare the Crockpot:
Set your crockpot to low heat. Use a 2.5‑4 quart slow cooker for best results. - Combine the Base Ingredients:
In the crockpot, add 5 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of half and half cream, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. - Mix Until Smooth:
Whisk everything together thoroughly, making sure to dissolve the cocoa powder completely so no clumps remain. This gives you that silky texture you love in hot chocolate. - Heat and Melt:
Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The chocolate chips will melt and blend with the milk mixture, infusing rich chocolate flavor. - Add Flavor:
Once the hot chocolate is hot and creamy, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This brightens the flavor and adds depth. - Serve With Toppings:
Ladle into mugs and top each with mini marshmallows. For extra fluffy marshmallows, place them on top and let the heat of the cocoa soften them slightly. - Optional Rest:
If you like softer, melty marshmallows, cover again, turn the slow cooker off, and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
That’s it! You now have a pot of dreamy hot chocolate ready to enjoy.
Helpful Tips
To make your Crockpot Hot Chocolate even better, consider these helpful tips:
- Prevent Skin Formation: Cover the hot chocolate with a lid to prevent a skin from forming on top as it heats. If a thin film develops, just whisk it back in.
- Stir Occasionally: Although slow cookers are gentle, stirring once during the cook time ensures even melting and prevents settling.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the hot chocolate before serving and add more sugar if you like a sweeter drink.
- Serve at the Right Temp: Remove the lid before serving and stir again for the best consistency and temperature.
- Use High‑Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate chips or chunks you use, the richer and more flavorful your hot cocoa will be.
- Create a Hot Cocoa Bar: Offer toppings like whipped cream, crushed peppermint, chocolate shavings, or flavored syrups for a fun experience.
These small touches elevate your hot chocolate from good to unforgettable.
Substitutions and Variations
This Crockpot Hot Chocolate is highly adaptable:
- Dairy Free or Vegan: Replace whole milk and half and half with full‑fat coconut milk and almond milk. Use dairy free chocolate chips and marshmallows to keep it vegan friendly.
- Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of cayenne for a spiced twist.
- Mocha Version: Stir in a tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
- Salted Caramel: Add a swirl of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt to create a sweet and salty version.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate: Use cinnamon and a tiny pinch of chili powder for a warming, spicy twist on tradition.
Experiment with these variations to find your favorite flavor combination.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers or are preparing ahead, here’s how to store your Crockpot Hot Chocolate:
- Refrigerate: Transfer cooled hot chocolate to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat or in the slow cooker on low, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Avoid Boiling: When reheating, do not bring to a boil, as this can affect texture and taste.
- Freeze: Hot chocolate can be frozen in freezer‑safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Proper storage makes this a convenient recipe to enjoy throughout the week.
Nutritional Information
Here are the estimated nutrition facts for one 1‑cup serving of Crockpot Hot Chocolate:
- Calories: 303
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Potassium: 386mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 34g
- Vitamin A: 355 IU
- Vitamin C: 0.2mg
- Calcium: 218mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
This rich drink is indulgent so enjoy in moderation as part of your fall or winter festivities.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Crockpot Hot Chocolate with these delightful pairings:
- Gourmet Cookies: Serve with classic chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, or shortbread.
- Pastry Companions: Enjoy alongside croissants, churros, or cinnamon rolls for the perfect dipping treat.
- Creamy Topping: Finish with a heaping swirl of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Toppings Bar: Offer sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or caramel drizzle for parties.
- Pair With Fruit: Fresh berries or orange slices can balance sweetness for guests.
These serving ideas turn your simple hot chocolate into a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Can I use almond milk or other milk alternatives?
Yes! You can substitute almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or any plant‑based milk for whole milk to make this recipe dairy free or vegan. Just be sure to use dairy free chocolate chips and marshmallows to keep it fully vegan.
What size crockpot should I use?
A 2.5‑4 quart slow cooker works best. Larger crockpots may take longer to heat, and smaller ones might overflow, so stick within this range for ideal results.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the hot chocolate early and keep it warm on the slow cooker’s lowest setting. You can also make it, refrigerate, and reheat later.
Why is my hot chocolate grainy?
If the cocoa powder was not fully dissolved before heating, it can create a grainy texture. Whisk thoroughly at the start for smooth cocoa.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients for larger gatherings, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to safely hold the amount without overflowing.
What toppings go well with this hot chocolate?
Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, cinnamon sticks, and flavored syrups all make excellent toppings.
These answers help you troubleshoot and customize your hot chocolate with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for exploring this delightful Crockpot Hot Chocolate recipe with me! There is something truly special about serving a pot of creamy, chocolate‑rich cocoa straight from the slow cooker. It’s easy to make, wonderfully comforting, and perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season or on a cozy night in. Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the delicious variations, I hope every cup warms your heart as much as your hands. Enjoy the ease, savor the flavor, and thank you for being part of the food‑loving community!
Print
Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Hot Chocolate is your go-to cozy drink for winter! Creamy, chocolatey, and made in the slow cooker with dairy free and vegan options. Perfect for serving at holiday parties or enjoying on a quiet night in.
Ingredients
5 cups whole milk
1 cup half and half cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
Here’s how to make this cozy hot beverage in your slow cooker:
- Prepare the Crockpot:
Set your crockpot to low heat. Use a 2.5‑4 quart slow cooker for best results. - Combine the Base Ingredients:
In the crockpot, add 5 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of half and half cream, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. - Mix Until Smooth:
Whisk everything together thoroughly, making sure to dissolve the cocoa powder completely so no clumps remain. This gives you that silky texture you love in hot chocolate. - Heat and Melt:
Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The chocolate chips will melt and blend with the milk mixture, infusing rich chocolate flavor. - Add Flavor:
Once the hot chocolate is hot and creamy, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This brightens the flavor and adds depth. - Serve With Toppings:
Ladle into mugs and top each with mini marshmallows. For extra fluffy marshmallows, place them on top and let the heat of the cocoa soften them slightly. - Optional Rest:
If you like softer, melty marshmallows, cover again, turn the slow cooker off, and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
That’s it! You now have a pot of dreamy hot chocolate ready to enjoy.
Notes
To make this recipe dairy free or vegan, substitute whole milk and half and half with full-fat coconut milk and almond milk. Use vegan chocolate chips and marshmallows. You can also double the recipe for larger crowds or adjust the sugar to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 303
- Sugar: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 7g