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Easy Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Milk Base

  • 6 cups whole milk OR 3 cups whole milk and 3 cups half and half
  • 2 cans evaporated milk (212 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