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Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4 from 41 reviews

This creamy crockpot hot chocolate recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday parties. Made with rich dark chocolate and creamy milk, it’s easy to prepare and serves a crowd with decadent flavor and a velvety texture.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups whole milk (must be whole for the best texture)
  • 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream (for an extra decadent touch)
  • 6 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (between 62% and 70% cocoa; 66% recommended)
  • 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 deeper flavor)
  • Pinch of kosher salt

Toppings

  • Marshmallows
  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Extra chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Place the milk, half-and-half, chopped chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, instant espresso powder (if using), and a pinch of kosher salt into a 3-quart slow cooker. Use a slow cooker that’s 5-quart or larger if doubling the recipe.
  2. Whisk to Combine: Briskly whisk the mixture to dissolve the cocoa powder as much as possible. Continue whisking for 1 to 2 minutes until none of the cocoa powder floats on the surface.
  3. Cook the Hot Chocolate: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring every 45 minutes to prevent sticking or burning. Alternatively, cook on high for 45 minutes to 1 hour, but be careful to watch it as the chocolate can burn or separate if overheated.
  4. Serve: Once the hot chocolate is hot and the chocolate is melted smoothly, ladle it into serving cups. Top with marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or extra chocolate chips as desired.
  5. Keep Warm: If not serving immediately, keep the crockpot on the ‘keep warm’ setting to maintain the perfect drinking temperature without burning the chocolate.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for the best creamy texture.
  • Dark or bittersweet chocolate between 62% and 70% cocoa gives the best rich flavor.
  • Whisk frequently during cooking to avoid the chocolate sticking or burning.
  • The instant espresso powder is optional but enhances the depth of chocolate flavor.
  • Do not keep on high heat after cooking as it may cause the chocolate to burn or separate.
  • Customize toppings to your preference for extra decadence.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

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