Cozy Crockpot Hot Chocolate
There’s something magical about hot chocolate during the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a festive Christmas party, watching your favorite holiday movies with the kids, or simply cozying up by the tree, this Crockpot Hot Chocolate is the perfect way to spread warmth and cheer. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but the rich, creamy flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds. Made with simple ingredients like whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, this recipe delivers a decadent drink that feels like a warm hug in a mug.
Creator: Leslie Stokes
Why Crockpot Hot Chocolate is Perfect for the Holidays
Making hot chocolate in a crockpot is a game-changer, especially during the holiday hustle and bustle. Once you add the ingredients, the crockpot does all the work, leaving you free to enjoy the party or wrap those last-minute gifts. Plus, the “warm” setting keeps it ready to serve all evening—no need to worry about reheating or stirring on the stove.
This recipe also scales beautifully, so whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or a larger Christmas party, you can easily double or even triple it for a crowd.
Set Up a Fancy Hot Chocolate Bar
To make your Crockpot Hot Chocolate the star of the party, set up a DIY Hot Chocolate Bar! It’s fun, interactive, and elevates any party. Here is some inspo for you:
Toppings!!!
• Whipped Cream: Classic and essential for a creamy finish.
• Marshmallows: Offer mini marshmallows, jumbo ones, or fun holiday shapes like snowflakes or trees.
• Chocolate Shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to create curls from a chocolate bar.
• Crushed Candy Canes: Add a festive crunch and peppermint flavor.
• Sprinkles: Go with holiday-themed sprinkles in red, green, and white for an extra pop of color.
• Caramel Drizzle: A sweet addition for those who love a touch of indulgence.
Mix-Ins for Custom Flavors
• Peppermint Stirrers: Candy canes or peppermint sticks make perfect edible stirrers.
• Flavored Syrups: Set out small bottles of hazelnut, vanilla, or caramel syrups for guests to mix into their cups.
• Liqueurs for Adults: Consider offering Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, or peppermint schnapps for an adult-friendly option.
Fun Add-Ons
• Cookies for Dunking: Set out sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or biscotti for a fun pairing.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Great for stirring and adding a hint of spice.
• Festive Mugs: Use mismatched holiday mugs or disposable cups with Christmas designs to keep the vibe festive.
Christmas Movie Night with the Kids
This Crockpot Hot Chocolate isn’t just for parties—it’s also the perfect addition to a family movie night. Imagine curling up on the couch with your kids, mugs of steaming hot chocolate in hand, while watching Home Alone or The Polar Express. Let the kids decorate their drinks with marshmallows and sprinkles while you enjoy the simplicity of the crockpot doing all the heavy lifting.
To make the evening even more memorable, pair the hot chocolate with a plate of holiday cookies or popcorn. And don’t forget cozy blankets and twinkling Christmas lights for that extra festive touch.
The Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again
This Crockpot Hot Chocolate has become a must-have in my holiday traditions. It’s easy to make, absolutely delicious, and versatile enough for any occasion. Plus, the smell of warm chocolate wafting through the house is reason enough to whip up a batch.
So, grab your crockpot, set up a fancy hot chocolate bar, and create warm, sweet memories with your loved ones this Christmas season. Cheers to cozy moments and cups of chocolatey goodness!
Get the Full recipe here!
Ingredients:
- whole or 2% milk
- heavy cream
- sweetened condensed milk
- semi-sweet chocolate chips
- vanilla or peppermint extract (your choice)
**full recipe below
Shop the Ingredients here!
Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Perfect for Christmas gatherings or cozy nights by the fire!
Ingredients:
• 4 cups whole or 2% milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tsp vanilla or peppermint extract (your choice)
Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
Add the milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips to your crockpot. Stir to combine.
2. Cook on Low:
Set the crockpot to low and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly. Depending on your crockpot, you might need to turn it down to warm to insure the hot chocolate doesn’t burn
3. Add Flavoring:
Once the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth, stir in the vanilla or peppermint extract.
4. Keep Warm:
Switch the crockpot to the warm setting to keep the hot chocolate ready to serve throughout your gathering.
5. Serve:
Ladle into mugs and garnish with your favorite toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Pro Tip:
Double the recipe for larger gatherings, and offer both vanilla and peppermint options by splitting the batch before adding the extract!
Enjoy this creamy, indulgent treat with family and friends!
