Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings and chilly days. Easy to make and ready to serve, it offers a rich, creamy treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 cups hot water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour the hot water into a large 7-quart slow cooker. Add the cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
- Step 2: Whisk all the ingredients well until fully combined. Cover with the lid and set the slow cooker on low heat until the mixture is hot and ready to serve.
- Step 3: Once hot, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting to keep the hot chocolate at the perfect temperature without burning.
- Step 4: Serve in individual mugs and top with your favorite toppings such as marshmallows or whipped cream.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, substitute half of the hot water with whole milk or cream before heating.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a cozy twist.
- Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate taste.
- Try adding a splash of peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a festive flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker on low, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this hot chocolate without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all the ingredients in a pot on the stove. Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring often until hot, but be careful not to burn it.
Can I use regular milk instead of water?
Absolutely. Using milk instead of water will make the hot chocolate creamier and richer, but keep an eye on the slow cooker to prevent curdling or scorching.
PrintSlow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe is a comforting and easy way to prepare a rich, creamy, and perfectly warm chocolate drink. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld effortlessly while keeping the hot chocolate at an ideal temperature for serving. It’s ideal for cozy gatherings or chilly days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 8 cups hot water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Toppings (optional)
- Marshmallows
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Pour 8 cups of hot water into a large 7-quart slow cooker. Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the slow cooker. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine all ingredients until smooth and well blended.
- Heat the Mixture: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to the low heat setting. Let the hot chocolate mixture heat until it becomes hot and ready to serve. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on your slow cooker model.
- Keep Warm and Serve: Once the hot chocolate is hot, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting to maintain the temperature and prevent the mixture from burning. Serve the hot chocolate in individual mugs, and add your favorite toppings like marshmallows or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based condensed milk alternative.
- Keep stirring occasionally if possible to avoid cocoa powder settling at the bottom.
- Use full-fat sweetened condensed milk for the richest flavor.
- Hot chocolate can be kept on warm for several hours to accommodate guests.
Keywords: slow cooker hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate recipe, hot chocolate in slow cooker, warm chocolate drink, cozy chocolate beverage
