Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Crockpot Hot Chocolate is such a wonderful way to enjoy rich, creamy, and perfectly warm chocolate during chilly days. Made with simple ingredients like milk, cocoa powder, and a touch…
Tip: save now, cook later.Crockpot Hot Chocolate is such a wonderful way to enjoy rich, creamy, and perfectly warm chocolate during chilly days. Made with simple ingredients like milk, cocoa powder, and a touch of sugar, this recipe lets you set it and forget it while the flavors slowly meld together in your slow cooker. The result is a smooth, comforting hot chocolate that tastes like it’s been brewing all day long.
I love making this in the crockpot because it frees me up to do other things while still having a delicious treat ready whenever I want it. Adding a bit of vanilla or cinnamon gives it a special touch that makes each cup feel cozy and a little bit fancy. My favorite part is how easy it is to customize—sometimes I stir in marshmallows or whipped cream just before serving for that extra bit of fun.
Serving Crockpot Hot Chocolate at family gatherings or holiday nights always feels like sharing a warm hug in a mug. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together around the slow cooker, dipping in mugs and chatting happily. Whenever I make it, I find myself looking forward to those simple moments of comfort and the smiles it brings around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but you can swap with almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free options. Just note the flavor may be a bit different but still delicious!
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips melt smoothly and add great flavor. Feel free to try dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your taste. If unavailable, chopped chocolate bars work well.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder boosts chocolate flavor. If you don’t have it, you can add a bit more chocolate chips or use Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the hot chocolate perfectly. You can replace it with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute to fit your preference.
Cornstarch: This is optional but helps thicken the hot chocolate for a richer texture. If you skip it, your drink will be lighter but still tasty.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely warmth and depth. If you don’t have vanilla, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be a lovely alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Crockpot Hot Chocolate Stays Smooth and Creamy?
Slowly melting the chocolate and blending the ingredients well is the key. Here’s how I keep my hot chocolate perfectly smooth:
- Add all ingredients to the crockpot at once and stir gently to combine, so nothing clumps up.
- Cook on low heat, which allows the chocolate to melt evenly without burning.
- Stir every 30 minutes—this helps the cocoa and chocolate fully dissolve and keeps the mixture creamy.
- Adding cornstarch helps thicken the drink without lumps if mixed well beforehand.
- Once cooked, stir in vanilla near the end for extra flavor without cooking off the aroma.
- If it’s too thick after cooking, add a splash of milk to loosen it up beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – perfect for gently melting chocolate and warming milk without worrying about burning.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – helps you stir the hot chocolate smoothly as it cooks.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for getting the right amounts of sugar, cocoa, and vanilla.
- Large mugs – for serving and enjoying your warm, creamy hot chocolate.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a vanilla bean for a warm, cozy twist that brightens the chocolate flavor.
- Stir in a splash of peppermint extract near the end for a refreshing minty taste, perfect for holidays.
- Mix in a little espresso powder or a shot of strong coffee to create a mocha version that’s rich and energizing.
- Top with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, or a sprinkle of chili powder for fun textures and tastes.
How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 (12 oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker hot chocolate)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Chocolate syrup (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crockpot hot chocolate recipe takes about 2 hours to cook on low heat, plus a few minutes for preparation and stirring. Keep it warm in the crockpot until you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for relaxing and enjoying a warm treat anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the milk into your crockpot. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, cornstarch (if using), and salt. Stir gently to mix everything evenly with the milk.
2. Cook the Hot Chocolate:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 2 hours. Every now and then, give it a gentle stir to help the chocolate chips melt completely and keep the mixture smooth and creamy.
3. Add Vanilla and Adjust Sweetness:
After 2 hours, stir in the vanilla extract. Taste your hot chocolate and add more sugar if you want it sweeter. Leave it on the “keep warm” setting until you’re ready to serve.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving generously with mini marshmallows. For an extra special touch, drizzle some chocolate syrup over the marshmallows. Now, curl up and enjoy your cozy, rich crockpot hot chocolate!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Yes! Almond, oat, or soy milk all work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might be a bit different, but it will still be delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Pour any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare it earlier in the day and keep it warm in the crockpot on the “keep warm” setting. Just give it a good stir before serving.
How Can I Thicken My Hot Chocolate?
Adding 1 tablespoon of cornstarch at the beginning helps thicken it nicely. Make sure to stir well to avoid lumps, and cook slowly to get that rich, creamy texture.