This Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink! It’s rich, creamy, and full of chocolatey goodness, perfect for a chilly night.
Making this hot chocolate is a breeze—just toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work. I love topping mine with marshmallows and whipped cream for extra magic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives this hot chocolate a rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk, though it may alter the creaminess.
Heavy Cream: This adds to the richness! If you’re looking for lower fat options, consider using coconut cream or a lighter cream. Just keep in mind it will affect the taste.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: I think chocolate chips are easy to melt, but you can chop up a chocolate bar for a more intense flavor. Dark chocolate is also a fantastic substitute for a deeper taste.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is essential for a chocolatey kick. You can replace it with Dutch-processed cocoa powder, but adjust the sugar since it’s usually less bitter.
Granulated Sugar: Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference. For a healthier option, try honey or maple syrup, but remember to adjust liquid content slightly.
How Do I Keep My Hot Chocolate Smooth and Creamy?
A key part of making incredible hot chocolate is ensuring it stays smooth and creamy. Here’s how to prevent lumps or burnt chocolate:
- Combine all ingredients in the crockpot and stir gently before cooking. This helps to evenly distribute the cocoa and sugar.
- Stir every 30 minutes during cooking, which helps prevent the chocolate from sticking to the bottom.
- If the hot chocolate starts to thicken or you notice lumps, whisk it vigorously during the last 30 minutes until smooth.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, but if keeping warm, set your crockpot to “warm” after cooking is complete.
These tips will help ensure your Christmas Eve hot chocolate is a hit with everyone!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 8 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (12-ounce) package semisweet chocolate chips or chopped semisweet chocolate
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Toppings:
- Marshmallows, for topping
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful hot chocolate recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by 2 to 3 hours of cooking time in the crockpot. It’s perfect for leisurely holiday gatherings, giving you plenty of time to enjoy with your loved ones!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into your crockpot. Then add the semisweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Gently stir everything together until the dry ingredients are well combined with the milk.
2. Slow Cook the Mixture:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and everything blends smoothly. The goal is to have a rich, hot chocolate without any lumps!
3. Final Touches Before Serving:
Once the hot chocolate is fully melted and heated through, stir in the vanilla extract to add that extra warmth of flavor. Give it a taste test and adjust the sweetness if you like—go ahead, make it your own!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, allowing everyone to top theirs with a generous helping of marshmallows and whipped cream. For a festive flair, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
5. Keep it Warm:
If you have leftovers or want to keep it warm for longer, switch your crockpot to the “warm” setting. It will stay nice and cozy for up to 2 hours—just remember to stir occasionally!
This creamy and delicious slow cooker hot chocolate is bound to make your Christmas Eve unforgettable! Cheers to a cozy evening with your favorite people!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While whole milk provides the creamiest texture, you can substitute with 2% milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the creaminess will vary depending on your choice!
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk), substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, and replace the chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
What Should I Do If the Hot Chocolate is Too Thick?
If your hot chocolate turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit more milk until you reach your preferred consistency. Heat it a little longer in the crockpot if needed to incorporate everything smoothly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
