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Crockpot Hot Chocolate

The Ultimate Creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate (Slow Cooker)

A rich, decadent hot chocolate recipe made easily in the slow cooker, perfect for parties, holidays, or cozy winter evenings. This hands-off method ensures a smooth, consistently warm beverage for large groups.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dairy and Liquids
  • 6 cups Whole Milk (or 2% Milk)
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream (or Half-and-Half for a lighter version)
  • 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk 14-ounce can
Chocolate Components
  • 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
  • 1 cup Milk Chocolate Chips (or use all Semi-Sweet for a darker flavor)
  • ½ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Flavoring and Finishing
  • 1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt (enhances the chocolate flavor)

Equipment

  • 6-quart (or larger) Slow Cooker/Crockpot
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation and Initial Mix
  1. Ensure the interior of the slow cooker insert is clean and dry.
  2. Combine the unsweetened cocoa powder and salt directly into the slow cooker insert.
  3. Pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Use a sturdy whisk to thoroughly mix the liquids with the cocoa powder until the powder is fully dissolved and no clumps remain.
  4. Add all the semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips. Give the mixture one final gentle stir to distribute the chips.
Cooking Process
  1. Place the lid securely on the slow cooker. Cook the mixture on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours.
  2. Stir Frequently: During the cooking process, lift the lid and stir the mixture every 30 to 45 minutes. This is critical to prevent the chocolate from settling, burning, or scorching on the bottom edges of the pot, ensuring the chips melt completely and integrate smoothly.
  3. Once the cook time is complete, the hot chocolate should be steaming slightly, appear uniformly dark brown, and be completely smooth and lump-free. Turn the slow cooker off or switch it immediately to the KEEP WARM setting.
  4. Stir in the 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract just before serving.
Serving
  1. Keep the Crockpot set to the 'KEEP WARM' setting for up to 2 hours for easy self-serving during parties or gatherings. Use a ladle to pour the hot chocolate into mugs.

Notes

Optional Toppings: Serve with a variety of toppings such as mini marshmallows, fresh whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or peppermint sticks. To make this vegan, substitute the dairy with oat milk and canned coconut cream, and ensure you use high-quality vegan chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk.