Easy Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction

This easy crockpot hot chocolate recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in. Rich, creamy, and full of melted chocolate goodness, it’s simple to prepare and keeps warm for hours. Add marshmallows just before serving for an extra indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• 6 cups whole milk OR 3 cups whole milk and 3 cups half and half
• 2 cans evaporated milk (2-12 oz. cans)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a 6-quart crockpot, combine whole milk (or the milk and half and half mixture), evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and chocolate chips. Stir to mix everything evenly.
2. Step 2: Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring frequently during the first hour to ensure the chocolate melts completely and does not burn on the bottom.
3. Step 3: Keep the hot chocolate on the warm setting once heated through. If it feels too hot to drink, lower the temperature to prevent overheating.
4. Step 4: About 30 minutes before serving, add large and mini marshmallows to the crockpot so they melt into the hot chocolate, creating a creamy topping.
5. Step 5: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and garnish with your favorite toppings such as extra marshmallows, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Tips & Variations

• You can use all whole milk for a lighter drink or mix half whole milk and half half and half for a richer, creamier texture.
• If you don’t have a crockpot, make this on the stove in a large stockpot over low heat, stirring often until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of peppermint extract for a festive twist.

Storage

Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess. Avoid boiling after reheating to prevent curdling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use chopped chocolate bars or chocolate chunks. Just be sure to stir frequently while melting to ensure it incorporates smoothly.

Is this recipe dairy-free or can it be made vegan?

This recipe uses dairy ingredients, but you can try substituting with plant-based milks and cream alternatives, though results may vary in texture and richness.

Easy Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 125 reviews

This easy crockpot hot chocolate recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and indulgent drink perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights in. Combining whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and luscious chocolate chips, it simmers slowly to create a velvety texture with deep chocolate flavor. Finish it off with melty marshmallows right before serving for the ultimate comfort treat.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: About 8–10 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Milk Base

• 6 cups whole milk OR 3 cups whole milk and 3 cups half and half
• 2 cans evaporated milk (2–12 oz. cans)
• 2 cups heavy cream

Flavorings

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups chocolate chips

Toppings

• Large marshmallows (quantity as desired)
• Mini marshmallows (quantity as desired)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart crockpot, add the milk (either all whole milk or a combination of whole milk and half and half), evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together.
2. Cook the Mixture: Set the crockpot to low and cook the mixture for 2 to 3 hours. Stir frequently during the first hour to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and does not stick or burn at the bottom. After it has heated through, you can switch the crockpot to the warm setting to keep the hot chocolate ready to serve without overheating.
3. Add Marshmallows: About 30 minutes before serving, add both large and mini marshmallows to the crockpot. Let them melt and become gooey, stirring occasionally to combine their creaminess into the hot chocolate.
4. Serve: Use a ladle to pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with your favorite additional toppings, such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or extra marshmallows, if desired.

Notes

• If you don’t have a crockpot, make this hot chocolate on the stove in a large stock pot over low heat. Stir often to melt the chocolate and prevent scorching. Simmer gently with the lid on.
• You can vary the milk combination to adjust richness — using all whole milk produces a lighter version, while adding half and half creates an extra creamy texture.
• Stirring frequently in the first hour is important to ensure smooth incorporation of the chocolate.
• Marshmallows add extra creaminess and sweetness when melted into the hot chocolate, but you can omit or substitute as desired.

Keywords: hot chocolate, crockpot hot chocolate, slow cooker cocoa, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot cocoa recipe, winter drinks, cozy beverages