Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate

$- 4 cups whole milk - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 cup sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon salt - Whipped cream and marshmallows for topping Whole milk provides a rich base. It gives the hot chocolate its creamy texture. Heavy cream adds more richness and makes it extra smooth. Semi-sweet chocolate chips melt beautifully, adding deep chocolate flavor. Unsweetened cocoa powder enhances the chocolate taste and gives a nice depth. Sugar sweetens the mix, balancing the chocolate's richness. Vanilla extract adds warmth and a hint of sweetness. Salt brings out all the flavors, making each sip more enjoyable. You can swap whole milk for almond milk or oat milk for a lighter version. Heavy cream can be replaced with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. If you prefer dark chocolate, use dark chocolate chips. You can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener. If you are out of vanilla, try almond extract for a tasty twist. To start, gather your ingredients. You will need: - 4 cups whole milk - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 cup sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon salt - Whipped cream and marshmallows for topping Next, pour the whole milk and heavy cream into your slow cooker. Stir them together well. This mix gives your hot chocolate a rich base. Now, add the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. These key ingredients create a deep, chocolate flavor. Set your slow cooker to low heat. Cover it with the lid and let it cook for about 2-3 hours. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes. This helps to melt the chocolate evenly and keeps it from sticking to the bottom. When it’s ready, taste your hot chocolate. If you want it sweeter, feel free to add more sugar. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each mug with a generous amount of whipped cream and mini marshmallows. For an extra treat, sprinkle some cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top. This adds a nice touch and makes it look fancy! Enjoy your creamy and rich delight with friends or family. To make the best hot chocolate, use high-quality chocolate chips. Semi-sweet chips give a rich taste. Avoid low-quality brands; they can taste waxy. Stir well while cooking to mix all flavors. This keeps the chocolate from sticking. Taste your hot chocolate before serving. You can always add more sugar if needed. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. A slow cooker is the best tool for this recipe. It cooks slowly and evenly, which is key for melting chocolate. A good whisk helps combine the ingredients smoothly. Use a ladle to serve hot chocolate easily. Mugs should be sturdy since they will hold hot liquid. If you want to add toppings, make sure to have a spoon handy. You can make this hot chocolate ahead of time. Store it in the fridge after it cools. When ready to serve, reheat it in the slow cooker on low. Stir gently to warm it up evenly. If it seems thick, add a splash of milk to thin it. Top with whipped cream and marshmallows right before serving. This way, your hot chocolate stays creamy and delicious. {{image_2}} You can add fun flavors to your hot chocolate. Mint gives a cool twist. Add a few drops of peppermint extract. You could also toss in crushed candy canes for a festive touch. For a spiced version, try cinnamon or nutmeg. Just sprinkle a bit directly into the mix. Both options make your drink unique and special. If you want a dairy-free or vegan hot chocolate, swap the milk and cream. Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk instead. These options still create a creamy texture. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for richness. Use dairy-free chocolate chips too. This way, everyone can enjoy this warm drink. Want to get creative with your hot chocolate? Add flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut. Just a tablespoon can make a big difference in taste. For adults, consider adding a splash of liqueur. Irish cream or peppermint schnapps work well. These add warmth and holiday cheer, making it a cozy treat. To store leftover hot chocolate, let it cool first. Pour it into a clean container with a lid. Glass jars work well for this. Place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to four days. Before serving again, give it a good stir. You can freeze hot chocolate too! Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat your hot chocolate, pour it into a pot. Heat it over low to medium heat. Stir it often to prevent burning. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst for even heating. Enjoy it warm with your favorite toppings! Yes, you can use different types of milk. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work well. Each type adds its own flavor. Just keep in mind that using non-dairy milk may change the creaminess. For a rich taste, stick to whole milk or cream whenever possible. To thicken hot chocolate, you can use more cocoa powder or chocolate chips. Adding cornstarch is another option. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into your hot chocolate while heating. It will thicken as it warms. To make your hot chocolate more decadent, try adding flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut. You can also mix in a spoonful of peanut butter for a nutty twist. For an adult version, consider adding a splash of liqueur, like Bailey's or Kahlua. Topping with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or even a sprinkle of sea salt will also elevate the flavor. This blog post covered the essentials for making hot chocolate. We explored ingredients, important steps, and helpful tips. You learned about variations, how to store leftovers, and answers to common questions. Hot chocolate is simple and fun to make. Use your favorite flavors and enjoy! Get creative, explore new options, and share with friends. Your perfect cup of hot chocolate awaits. Enjoy every sip!$

Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Decadent Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate that will warm your heart! This easy recipe combines whole milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, and cocoa for a luscious drink perfect for chilly nights. Just a few simple steps in your slow cooker, and you'll have a cozy treat topped with whipped cream and marshmallows. Click to explore the full recipe and make your winter nights sweeter! #SlowCookerRecipes #HotChocolateRecipe #WinterDrinks #CozyTreats

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

Whipped cream and marshmallows for topping

Instructions

In a slow cooker, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Stir well to blend.

Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the slow cooker.

Set the slow cooker to low heat and cover with the lid. Let it cook for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.

Once the hot chocolate is fully heated and ingredients are well combined, taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary. If you prefer it sweeter, add more sugar to taste.

Serve the hot chocolate in mugs, topped generously with whipped cream and mini marshmallows. Optionally, sprinkle with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an extra touch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 2-3 hours | Servings: 6-8 servings