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Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.1 from 8 reviews

This rich and creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings or a relaxing evening. Made with whole milk, half-and-half, and a blend of dark chocolate and cocoa powder, this slow-cooked hot chocolate is velvety smooth with a deep chocolate flavor. The optional espresso powder adds a subtle complexity, and customizable toppings such as marshmallows or whipped cream complete this indulgent treat.

  • Author: Lilya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Hot Chocolate Base

  • 3 cups whole milk (must be whole for the best texture)
  • 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
  • 6 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder or Dutch process cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder or coffee powder (optional for a more intense flavor)
  • Pinch kosher salt

Toppings (Optional)

  • Marshmallows
  • Whipped cream
  • Drizzle of caramel
  • Handful of extra chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place all of the ingredients except for the toppings into a 3-quart slow cooker (or a 5-quart or larger if doubling the recipe), including the milk, half-and-half, chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, espresso powder, and salt.
  2. Whisk to Dissolve Cocoa Powder: Briskly whisk the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and none floats on top.
  3. Cook in Slow Cooker: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 2 to 3 hours, whisking every 45 minutes to prevent burning on the bottom. Alternatively, cook on high for 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on your slow cooker's performance. Avoid keeping it on high after cooking to prevent the chocolate from burning or separating.
  4. Maintain Temperature: After cooking, keep the hot chocolate on the 'low' or 'keep warm' setting to maintain temperature without overheating.
  5. Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into cups and add your preferred toppings, such as marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or extra chocolate chips.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for the best creamy texture; substituting with lower-fat milk will affect the richness.
  • Heavy cream can replace half-and-half for an extra decadent version.
  • If not using espresso powder, you can omit it — it only adds subtle depth to the chocolate flavor.
  • Whisking regularly during cooking prevents the chocolate from sticking or burning.
  • This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings, use a larger slow cooker accordingly.
  • Add toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and visually appealing.

Find it online: https://familyhomemeals.com/crockpot-hot-chocolate-recipe/