Rich & Creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe for a Crowd

Oh, dear friends, there are few things that warm the soul quite like a mug of homemade hot chocolate, especially a rich and creamy crockpot hot chocolate recipe that simmers to perfection. Imagine that velvety texture, the deep cocoa flavor swirling with sweet notes—it’s not just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug, a little bit of magic we can create right in our own kitchens. This isn’t just any cocoa; it’s a decadent experience designed to delight.

I remember chilly afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and chocolate always in the air as she’d whip up a comforting treat. Those moments, filled with laughter and the warmth of simple pleasures, taught me that the best desserts are those made with love and shared generously. This recipe brings back all those cherished feelings, a testament to the power of homemade goodness.

This particular crockpot hot chocolate recipe is truly a marvel because it’s wonderfully easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights. My top tip? Don’t rush the process; let those flavors meld slowly for an unforgettable experience that brings everyone together.

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful hot chocolate begins with a symphony of simple ingredients: rich sweetened condensed milk, luscious heavy cream, and wholesome whole milk, all brought to life with unsweetened cocoa powder and a touch of vanilla. I always use real vanilla extract for a deeper, more aromatic flavor profile that truly elevates this crockpot hot chocolate recipe. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make crockpot hot chocolate recipe

Making this decadent crockpot hot chocolate recipe couldn’t be simpler. You’ll combine all your wonderful ingredients in your slow cooker, stir them together until everything is beautifully blended, and then let your crockpot do all the magic. A couple of hours of gentle simmering transforms these everyday ingredients into the most incredibly rich and creamy hot chocolate, ready to ladle into mugs and adorn with your favorite toppings.

Creamy Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate

A rich and velvety hot chocolate, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This recipe yields a large batch, ideal for entertaining a crowd with minimal fuss.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Beverage

Cuisine: American

Calories: 444

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 6 cups whole milk or 2% milk
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder good quality
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips
• Optional whipped cream for serving
• Optional mini marshmallows for serving
• Optional chocolate shavings for serving

Equipment

• 6-Quart Slow Cooker
• Whisk
• Ladle

Method

 

Combine Ingredients

1. Pour the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt into a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
2. Whisk all ingredients together until completely smooth and the cocoa powder is fully dissolved. Ensure there are no lumps.
3. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract.

Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2 hours, or on LOW for 4 hours.
2. Stir every 30-45 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure all chocolate melts evenly. The hot chocolate is ready when it's hot, thoroughly combined, and slightly thickened.

Serve

1. Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Garnish with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or chocolate shavings. Keep the slow cooker on the "WARM" setting for serving a crowd.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use all whole milk. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute some of the whole milk with 2% milk. Taste after cooking and add more sugar, if desired, dissolving it by stirring well. For Spiced Hot Chocolate, add 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the cocoa powder for a delightful twist. Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Pro Tips for Making This crockpot hot chocolate recipe

Creating the perfect cup of cocoa is an art, and I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this crockpot hot chocolate recipe absolutely irresistible.

• Whisk Well: When you first add the cocoa powder and sugar, make sure to whisk them thoroughly with a little of the milk until smooth before adding the rest of the liquids. This prevents any stubborn lumps and ensures a silky-smooth hot chocolate.
• Don’t Overcook: While the slow cooker is forgiving, keep an eye on it. Two hours is usually perfect to heat through and meld flavors without scorching. A gentle simmer is what we’re after, not a rolling boil.
• My Secret Trick: I always add a pinch of salt to my chocolate recipes. It might sound unusual, but it magically enhances the chocolate’s natural flavor, making it taste even richer and deeper without being salty. Give it a try; you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in this crockpot hot chocolate recipe.
• Stir Occasionally: Give your hot chocolate a good stir every 30-45 minutes during the cooking process. This helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents any ingredients from settling at the bottom, ensuring consistent creaminess.

Fun Variations for crockpot hot chocolate recipe

One of the joys of home baking (and cooking!) is making a recipe truly your own! This crockpot hot chocolate recipe is a fantastic canvas for creativity.

Spice It Up

For a touch of warmth and intrigue, try adding a few cinnamon sticks or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your slow cooker. My sister always asks me to swirl in a touch of chili powder for a Mexican hot chocolate flair; it adds a wonderful, subtle heat that truly complements the rich chocolate.

Minty Delight

A splash of peppermint extract (about 1/2 teaspoon to start) stirred in just before serving turns this into a festive mint hot chocolate. It’s perfect for the holidays, and a friend loves when I top it with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for extra cheer.

Adult Indulgence

For the grown-ups, a shot of Kahlua, Bailey’s Irish Cream, or even a good quality bourbon stirred into individual mugs offers a luxurious kick. It’s a wonderful way to elevate the evening after a long day.

What to Serve With crockpot hot chocolate recipe

This creamy crockpot hot chocolate recipe is a star all on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate it into a truly memorable experience.

I love serving it with a platter of homemade cookies, especially some classic [[Best Ever Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies]] or a batch of my favorite snickerdoodles. The combination of warm, spiced cookies and rich hot chocolate is pure bliss. For a simple and quick serving idea, consider a bowl of fluffy mini marshmallows and a can of whipped cream for guests to customize their mugs. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup over the whipped cream is always a hit, too! My mom always pairs it with a platter of fresh fruit for a lighter contrast, which is surprisingly delightful.

How to Store crockpot hot chocolate recipe

If you’re lucky enough to have any of this amazing crockpot hot chocolate recipe left over, storing it properly ensures you can enjoy its magic again and again.

Refrigeration Tips

Once cooled, transfer any leftover hot chocolate to an airtight container or a pitcher with a lid. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each. My personal tip for reheating is to add a tiny splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick, to restore that perfect creamy consistency.

Freezing for Later

While you can technically freeze hot chocolate, I find that the texture can sometimes change a bit upon thawing. If you do decide to freeze it, pour cooled hot chocolate into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently, stirring well.

Nutritional Benefits

While undoubtedly a treat, this delightful crockpot hot chocolate recipe also offers a moment of simple joy and satisfaction. Made with milk and cocoa, it provides calcium and antioxidants, reminding us that even indulgence can have a heartwarming side. It’s a dessert that nourishes the soul as much as it delights the palate.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I make this crockpot hot chocolate recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for making in advance. Prepare it a few hours before your event and keep it on the “warm” setting in your crockpot, stirring occasionally. It’s perfect for effortless entertaining.

Faq 2

How do I prevent a skin from forming on top?
A common trick is to either stir it frequently or place a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the hot chocolate while it’s on the warm setting. This helps keep it smooth and inviting.

Faq 3

Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic for this crockpot hot chocolate recipe, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor or even a mix of dark and milk for added depth.

Faq 4

What if my hot chocolate seems too thick or too thin?
If it’s too thick, simply stir in a little more whole milk or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer, allowing some liquid to evaporate.

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about a homemade crockpot hot chocolate recipe, isn’t there? It’s more than just a beverage; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and create cherished memories with those you love. I hope this recipe inspires you to embrace the simple joy of stirring up something sweet and comforting in your own kitchen. Remember, with a little love and patience, even the simplest ingredients can become magical treats that bring warmth and happiness to every gathering. Happy stirring, my sweet friends!