Crockpot Hot Chocolate

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When the cold weather rolls in, there’s nothing I love more than wrapping my hands around a warm mug of Crockpot Hot Chocolate. It’s rich, creamy, and tastes like a cozy hug in a cup. This isn’t your average instant cocoa — this version simmers low and slow in the crockpot, blending melted chocolate with creamy milk for a luxurious texture and depth of flavor that feels downright indulgent.

I started making this recipe for family gatherings during the holidays, and now it’s a winter staple in my home. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while I focus on decorating or relaxing by the fire. Best part? Everyone can help themselves — it’s perfect for entertaining, snow days, or just curling up with a good book and a blanket.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Hot Chocolate

This hot chocolate is silky, thick, and decadent without being overly sweet. It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients and almost zero effort. Letting it warm in the crockpot allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it keeps warm for hours, making it ideal for serving at parties or cozying up during a movie marathon.

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

You can use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate depending on your taste. I prefer a combination of semi-sweet chips and chopped dark chocolate for balance. Avoid using only cocoa powder — the real chocolate is what gives this drink its luxurious body and richness.

Options for Substitutions

You can absolutely tweak this to suit your needs. Use dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk for a vegan version. Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream if you want a non-dairy option that still delivers richness. Want to add a twist? Peppermint extract, cinnamon, or even a splash of espresso can elevate the flavor beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Whole Milk – This forms the base of the drink, giving it a smooth, creamy texture. Whole milk is best for richness.

Heavy Cream – Adds velvety body and a decadent mouthfeel, making the drink ultra-luxurious.

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Brings in sweetness and thickens the hot chocolate with a subtle caramel flavor.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melts into the mixture for a balanced, not-too-sweet chocolate profile.

Chopped Dark Chocolate – Deepens the flavor and gives the drink an indulgent, slightly bitter edge.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds warmth.

Salt – Just a pinch helps bring out the depth of the chocolate.

Mini Marshmallows (optional) – For topping, they melt slightly and give that classic hot cocoa feel.

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Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Pour the whole milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk into your crockpot. Whisk them together to fully combine. This creamy trio is the foundation of your drink, so give it a good stir.

Step 2: Add the Chocolate

Next, stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped dark chocolate. These will melt slowly as the mixture heats, infusing the drink with deep, rich flavor. Make sure the chocolate is fully submerged.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt

Add your vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt. This step might seem small, but it really elevates the flavor and makes the chocolate pop.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally to make sure everything melts evenly and nothing sticks to the sides.

Step 5: Stir Before Serving

Once everything is melted and the texture is smooth and creamy, give it a final stir. Switch the crockpot to the “warm” setting to keep it hot for serving.

Step 6: Top and Serve

Ladle into mugs and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or even a dash of cinnamon. Enjoy immediately while warm and cozy.

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How Long to Prepare the Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Prep Time: The hands-on time for this recipe is minimal — just about 5–10 minutes. All you’re doing is pouring and mixing ingredients together, which makes it great even if you’re short on time.

Cook Time: The real magic happens during the 2-hour cooking time on the LOW setting. This slow heating allows the chocolate to melt gently and fully blend with the milk and cream without burning or curdling. You can leave it on WARM for up to 3 hours after that if you’re serving it throughout an event.

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Tips for Perfect Crockpot Hot Chocolate

• Use high-quality chocolate: It makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Whisk well before serving: Stirring helps redistribute any chocolate that might settle.
• Taste and adjust: If it’s too rich, add more milk. If too sweet, balance with a bit more dark chocolate.
• Preheat your crockpot: This gets things melting quicker and more evenly.
• Use a ladle for serving: Helps avoid messes and keeps the drink smooth.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating: Don’t turn the crockpot to HIGH — chocolate can scorch easily.
• Skipping the stir: Failing to stir every 30 minutes can cause uneven melting.
• Wrong milk choice: Skim milk will make the drink too thin and watery.
• Using only cocoa powder: It won’t give the same luxurious texture.
• Forgetting the salt: That little pinch truly enhances the flavor.

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What to Serve With Crockpot Hot Chocolate?

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies

A classic combo that never fails — dip them right in.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

The spice from the donuts pairs beautifully with the creamy chocolate.

3. Scones or Biscotti

Great for dunking and add a nice texture contrast.

4. Whipped Cream Topped Brownies

Take the chocolate love even further with a fudgy side.

5. Holiday Shortbread

Buttery and lightly sweet cookies that melt in your mouth.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the leftover hot chocolate cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave or heat the entire batch gently in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid scorching. Avoid boiling.

Freezing: Not recommended, as the dairy base can separate and turn grainy after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per 1 cup serving, approximate values)

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I keep this warm in the crockpot?

You can leave it on the “warm” setting for up to 3 hours. Just give it a stir occasionally.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use almond or oat milk and substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream. Also use dairy-free chocolate.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough and stir well to avoid any chocolate sticking to the bottom.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

You can use a bit more sugar and some evaporated milk, though the texture may not be quite as thick.

Can I spike it for adults?

Definitely. A splash of Bailey’s, Kahlua, or peppermint schnapps is a great holiday twist!

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Conclusion

Crockpot Hot Chocolate is more than just a warm drink — it’s a comforting, cozy experience perfect for winter days, holiday parties, or slow Sunday mornings. It’s rich, incredibly creamy, and requires almost no effort. Once you try it this way, you might never go back to the powdered packets again. Whether you top it with marshmallows or keep it simple, this is one indulgence worth savoring.

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