Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate

This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate recipe is an easy way to enjoy rich, creamy homemade hot chocolate without much fuss. It uses real chocolate and dairy to create a luxurious drink that feels special and is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings.

This recipe became a holiday favorite in my home after I made it three times in one season. Everyone loved it so much it quickly turned into a tradition we look forward to every year.

Ingredients

• Unsweetened cocoa powder: — adds deep chocolate flavor. Use a quality brand like Hershey’s for the best taste.
• Sweetened condensed milk: — is the only sweetener here, so pick the right can to avoid evaporated milk, which looks similar but lacks sweetness.
• Whole milk: — gives the hot chocolate a rich, creamy base better than skim or low fat.
• Heavy whipping cream: — adds extra creaminess and smoothness— half and half works but cream makes it decadent.
• Vanilla extract: — enhances the chocolate flavor by adding warmth and depth.
• Semi—sweet chocolate chips: — chosen to keep the sweetness balanced— milk or dark chocolate can be used but will shift the flavor profile.
• Mini marshmallows: — for topping, optional but they melt beautifully and add nostalgic comfort.

Instructions

Soothe the Cocoa Milk:

Heat one cup of whole milk until scalding but not boiling. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop. Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder thoroughly until fully dissolved to create a smooth chocolate milk base.

Combine the Main Ingredients:

In a slow cooker at least 4 quarts in size, add the sweetened condensed milk, remaining whole milk, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and semi—sweet chocolate chips. Stir gently just to combine.

Incorporate the Cocoa Milk:

Pour the warm cocoa milk you prepared first into the slow cooker mixture. Stir well to combine all elements evenly.

Slow Cook and Stir:

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for roughly two hours. During this time, stir vigorously every so often to ensure that all the chocolate chips melt completely and do not stick to the sides. This step is crucial for a silky texture.

Serve and Garnish:

Once the mixture is hot and chocolate chips have fully melted, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for a festive finish. You can also add a mini candy cane for a peppermint twist.

This recipe’s semi—sweet chocolate chips have a special place in my heart because they strike the perfect balance between rich and sweet. A memorable moment was serving this at a family gathering where my niece declared it the “best hot chocolate ever” and asked for seconds and thirds. It really feels like a warm hug in a mug.

Storage Tips

Store leftover hot chocolate in a covered container in the refrigerator. Make sure it is tightly sealed to avoid absorbing other fridge odors. When reheating, do so in 30 second increments in the microwave or gently on the stovetop, stirring well after each interval to keep the smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half and half for the heavy cream but the drink will be less rich. Dark chocolate chips add a deeper cocoa flavor but reduce sweetness. For a dairy—free option, use almond or oat milk with coconut cream instead of dairy but note the flavor will vary.

Serving Suggestions

This hot chocolate is perfect with classic toppings like marshmallows or whipped cream. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra warmth. Serving with a mini candy cane or a drizzle of caramel sauce makes it feel extra special during the holidays. Pair with fresh baked cookies or sweet pastries for a lovely cozy treat.

Enjoy this cozy crock pot hot chocolate with loved ones. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I prepare this hot chocolate on the stovetop?

Yes, warm the ingredients on medium heat while whisking frequently to prevent chocolate from sticking or burning.

→ Is whole milk necessary for this preparation?

Whole milk provides the healthiest creamy texture, but heavy cream can be used to increase richness.

→ What makes this different from powdered hot cocoa?

This version uses real chocolate chips and milk, giving a richer, smoother taste compared to powdered mixes.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store in a covered container refrigerated up to 3 days, gently reheating in short microwave bursts.

→ Are there variations to try with this hot chocolate?

Add peppermint extract for a mint twist or a splash of liqueur for an adult-friendly version.