Warm, creamy, and easy to make for a crowd — this slow cooker hot chocolate is a cozy favorite.
introduction
This Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is a simple and comforting drink you can make without standing at the stove. It makes a large batch so you can serve family and friends with little work. If you want a clear example of how to set up and cook it in your slow cooker, see this slow cooker hot chocolate recipe for a friendly walk-through and ideas. The mix of milk, cream, chocolate, and cocoa makes a rich and smooth drink that is easy to warm and serve all day.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
You will love this recipe because it is hands-off and consistent. The slow cooker keeps the drink at the right temperature so it stays warm without burning. It is easy to make a big batch, which is great for parties, movie nights, or cold mornings. The taste is rich and chocolatey, and you can change the toppings to fit the crowd. Use marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, or salted caramel for a simple upgrade. The slow cooker method gives the chocolate time to melt and blend, making a smooth drink with little effort.
Why Make This Recipe
Make this recipe when you want a warm drink that serves many people and requires little attention. It is better than single-cup methods when you have guests or a long event. The slow cooker keeps the hot chocolate ready and warm for hours. You can also make it ahead of time and reheat if needed. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and you can control the sweetness and chocolate level by choice of chocolate and cocoa powder.
What You Need for Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
For tools, you need a large slow cooker, a sturdy whisk, a ladle, and mugs. A slow cooker with a removable pot makes serving and cleaning easier. Use a whisk to mix the cocoa powder at the start so it dissolves into the milk. A ladle helps you serve without splashing. If you have a milk frother or a small blender, you can use it for a smoother top for each cup, but that is optional.
How to Make Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
The steps are simple and slow. First, mix the dry cocoa with the cold milk in the slow cooker so it has time to dissolve. Add the chocolate and cream, then whisk well. Cook gently so the chocolate melts and the flavors blend. Stir every 45 minutes to an hour to keep the chocolate from sticking to the bottom. When it is hot and smooth, serve with your favorite toppings. The slow cooker will hold the temperature so guests can serve themselves for a few hours.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups (1440ml) whole milk (skim, 1%, or 2% are OK)
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder or dutch-process cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- toppings: marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, salted caramel, etc.
Directions:
- Place all of the ingredients into a large slow cooker. (Here’s one I own and love!) Vigorously whisk to get the cocoa powder as mixed in as possible—you don’t want it all floating on the top. Keep whisking for a minute or 2 until it’s all combined.
- Cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours, whisking the mixture every 45 minutes to 1 hour to ensure the chocolate isn’t burning on the bottom.
- Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows or other optional toppings.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and warm up on the stove or in the microwave.
These steps keep the process clear. Use a long-handled whisk so you can reach the bottom easily. When you serve, stir the pot once more so the drink is smooth in each cup.
Best Ways to Serve Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Serve hot and fresh with toppings near the slow cooker so guests can choose. Put out marshmallows, crushed candy canes, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel. For adults, you can offer liqueurs like peppermint schnapps or Kahlúa for a spiked option. Use tall mugs to show off layers of topping. If you want a fancy look, add a cinnamon stick or a piece of chocolate on the rim of the mug. For children, use fun sprinkles and mini marshmallows. Keep the slow cooker on warm so refills stay hot.
How to Store Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Let the hot chocolate cool slightly before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container or a covered pot in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you want more, warm it on the stove over low heat while stirring often, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each burst. If the drink thickens after cooling, add a splash of milk when reheating to reach the texture you like. Never leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours to keep it safe.
Easy Tips to Make Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
- Chop the chocolate small so it melts faster and blends well.
- Whisk the cocoa powder into the milk first to avoid lumps.
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for a rich and smooth result, but you can run the recipe with lower-fat milk if you prefer.
- Stir the pot often while it cooks to stop any chocolate from sticking.
- Taste halfway through and add more sugar or chocolate if you like it sweeter or richer.
- Keep the slow cooker on warm for serving, not on high, to avoid boiling or burning.
Try These Variations of Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
- Peppermint: Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract or stir in crushed candy cane at the end.
- Mexican: Add a pinch of cinnamon and a small pinch of cayenne pepper for warmth.
- Salted Caramel: Add a few tablespoons of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt.
- White Chocolate: Substitute white chocolate for the semi-sweet chocolate for a creamy, sweet change.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk and a dairy-free cream substitute, and use dairy-free chocolate. Each change is simple and keeps the slow cooker method the same.
Common Questions About Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Q: Can I use milk alternatives like almond or soy milk?
A: Yes. Use a full-fat plant milk if you can for a richer texture. Heat gently and watch for separation. Add a little extra chocolate if it tastes thin.
Q: How long can I keep the hot chocolate warm in the slow cooker?
A: Keep it on the warm setting for up to 4 hours. Stir every 30 to 60 minutes to keep it smooth and to prevent burning on the bottom.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
A: Yes. Make it a day ahead and refrigerate. Reheat slowly on the stove or in the slow cooker on low, adding a splash of milk if needed to refresh the texture.
Q: What chocolate works best?
A: Semi-sweet chocolate gives a nice balance of sweet and bitter. Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor. You can mix semi-sweet and milk chocolate to suit your taste.
Q: Is cocoa powder needed if I use chopped chocolate?
A: Cocoa powder adds depth and a stronger chocolate flavor. The chopped chocolate adds creaminess. Using both gives a richer, fuller taste.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is a simple way to make a warm, rich drink for a group. It uses easy ingredients and a slow cooker to save time and effort. You can change the flavors and toppings to please everyone. It stores well and heats up again easily, so you can make it ahead for stress-free serving.
Ready to Give It a Try?
Gather your slow cooker, chop your chocolate, and set up a topping station. This recipe makes serving warm chocolate easy and fun for any gathering. Enjoy the cozy moments with a mug in hand.
Print
Homemade Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 190 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and rich slow cooker hot chocolate is perfect for gatherings, offering a warm and comforting drink without the hassle of constant stirring.
Ingredients
- 6 cups (1440ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 8 ounces (226g) semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Toppings: marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, salted caramel, etc.
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients into a large slow cooker and whisk vigorously to combine.
- Cook on low for 5 hours or high for 3 hours, whisking every 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and add desired toppings.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat.
Notes
Chop the chocolate small for quicker melting. Use whole milk for a creamy texture, but lower-fat milk can substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg