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Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe


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4.1 from 9 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Description

This creamy and decadent Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe delivers rich, velvety chocolate goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for chilly days or cozy nights, this warm drink combines whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate, and cocoa powder, slow-cooked to perfection, then topped with your favorite marshmallows or whipped cream.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups (1440ml) whole milk (skim, 1%, or 2% are OK)
  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • 1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder or dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Toppings (Optional)

  • Marshmallows
  • Whipped cream
  • Candy canes
  • Salted caramel


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place all of the ingredients into a large slow cooker. Vigorously whisk to incorporate the cocoa powder fully and prevent it from floating on the top. Continue whisking for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined.
  2. Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook the mixture for 5 hours (or on high for 3 hours). Every 45 minutes to 1 hour, whisk the hot chocolate to ensure the chocolate does not burn or stick to the bottom of the pot.
  3. Serve: Once cooked, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Add optional toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, or salted caramel to enhance the flavor and presentation.
  4. Store and Reheat: Store any leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving again.

Notes

  • Be sure to whisk frequently during cooking to avoid chocolate burning on the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Use whole milk and heavy cream for the creamiest texture, but lower-fat options can be substituted if desired.
  • Customize toppings according to your taste—marshmallows and whipped cream are classic choices.
  • This recipe yields 10 servings and can be easily doubled or halved depending on your needs.
  • Carefully store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American