If you’re craving the ultimate cozy drink to warm your soul, let me introduce you to The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate. This luscious, creamy concoction is like a warm hug in a mug, blending rich chocolate, velvety cream, and the perfect touch of vanilla. Made effortlessly in your crockpot, it’s ideal for lazy afternoons, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to treat yourself and loved ones to something extra special. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it during chilly days.

The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in crafting that silky, indulgent texture and deep chocolate flavor. These simple essentials combine to create a hot chocolate far superior to any mix or store-bought version.

Whole milk (6 cups) or a combination of whole milk and half and half: Provides a creamy base that’s smooth and comforting.
Evaporated milk (2 cans, 12 oz each): Adds richness and thickness without overpowering the sweetness.
Heavy cream (2 cups): Takes the creaminess to the next level, lending a luscious mouthfeel.
Vanilla (2 teaspoons): Boosts flavor with a warm, inviting aroma that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Chocolate chips (3 cups): Choose your favorite—semisweet or milk chocolate—to give the drink its luxurious melted chocolate core.

How to Make The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients

First, pour the whole milk (or milk and half and half if you prefer extra richness), evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and chocolate chips into your crockpot. Using a 6-quart crockpot ensures you have enough room to stir and prevent spills. This combination sets the stage for a perfectly balanced texture and flavor.

Step 2: Slow Cook and Stir

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 2 to 3 hours. Here’s the secret: stir often during the first hour, which helps the chocolate chips melt evenly and stops them from sticking or burning to the bottom. After the first hour, you can stir less frequently as the chocolate fully incorporates into a smooth, rich base.

Step 3: Keep Warm Until Serving

Once heated through and beautifully blended, switch your crockpot to the warm setting. This keeps your hot chocolate ready to serve at just the right temperature without risking overcooking. If it feels a little too hot for sipping, reduce to low for a gentler heat.

Step 4: Add Marshmallows Before Serving

About 30 minutes before your hot chocolate is ready to enjoy, add a handful of large and mini marshmallows right into the crockpot. They’ll slowly melt, creating a dreamy, fluffy layer that’s irresistible. This final touch makes your hot chocolate extra special and decadent.

How to Serve The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Garnishes

Don’t hold back on toppings! Beyond marshmallows, try whipped cream, chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a few crushed peppermint candies. These add both texture and extra bursts of flavor that make every sip a delight.

Side Dishes

Pair this hot chocolate with simple yet delicious treats like freshly baked cookies, buttery croissants, or cinnamon rolls. These sides soak up the chocolatey goodness perfectly and elevate your cozy beverage experience into an indulgent mini feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate in festive mugs or clear glass mugs to show off the rich color. For gatherings, set up a hot chocolate bar with various toppings and mix-ins so everyone can customize their cup. It’s a fun way to share this beloved drink while adding a splash of personality to the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover hot chocolate, no worries! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chocolate settles a bit while cold, so be sure to give it a good stir or gently reheat before serving again.

Freezing

Freezing your hot chocolate is possible, but do so with caution. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly to prevent separation. The texture might be slightly different, but the rich chocolate flavor remains delightful.

Reheating

Warm leftover hot chocolate gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help bring back that fresh-from-the-crockpot creaminess you loved initially.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your hot chocolate a more intense, bittersweet flavor that’s fantastic if you prefer less sweetness. Just make sure to use good-quality chocolate for the best results.

Is it okay to use non-dairy milk?

You can substitute non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, but keep in mind the richness and mouthfeel will differ from the original recipe. You might want to add a bit more cream or non-dairy creamer to achieve a similar velvety texture.

How long can I keep the hot chocolate warm in the crockpot?

Once it’s fully heated, you can keep The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate warm on the low or warm setting for several hours. Just stir occasionally to prevent any settling or burning on the bottom.

Can I make this recipe in a pot on the stove?

Yes, though the crockpot is perfect for hands-off cooking. If you use the stove, melt the chocolate gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking frequently to avoid burning and to achieve that creamy consistency.

What’s the best chocolate for this recipe?

Chocolate chips work well, but feel free to use finely chopped high-quality baking chocolate or a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate to customize the flavor. Just ensure they melt smoothly without clumps.

Final Thoughts

There really is nothing quite like coming home to The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate warming on your countertop. It’s rich, comforting, and so easy to make – perfect for sharing with friends, family, or savoring on your own during chilly weather. Give this recipe a try and prepare to fall in love with your new go-to winter treat!

The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 8 reviews

This Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate recipe offers a rich, creamy, and comforting drink that’s perfect for chilly days and cozy gatherings. Made with a combination of whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and plenty of chocolate chips, this slow-cooked hot chocolate is silky smooth and decadently chocolatey. The addition of vanilla enhances the flavor, while marshmallows melted in at the end add an irresistible touch of sweetness and texture. Perfect to serve at parties or enjoy by the fire, this recipe makes a large batch and keeps warm in the crockpot for easy serving.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Beverage
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy 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 extract

Chocolate

3 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate preferred)

Toppings

Large marshmallows, as desired
Mini marshmallows, as desired

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart crockpot, pour in your whole milk (or a mix of whole milk and half-and-half), evaporated milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Add the chocolate chips on top without stirring yet.
Cook the Hot Chocolate: Set the crockpot to low heat and cook for 2 to 3 hours. Stir the mixture every 15-20 minutes during the first hour to help the chocolate chips melt evenly and prevent burning on the bottom. After the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture is smooth, reduce stirring but keep the crockpot on low to maintain warmth.
Add Marshmallows: About 30 minutes before serving, add both large and mini marshmallows to the crockpot. Allow them to melt slightly, creating a melty, delicious topping throughout the hot chocolate.
Serve: Use a ladle to pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Optionally, garnish with extra marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings to enhance presentation and flavor.

Notes

Use a 6-quart or larger crockpot to ensure there is enough room for stirring and the marshmallows.
For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond milk or oat milk and dairy-free evaporated milk alternatives, adjusting the creaminess accordingly.
To intensify the chocolate flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips or mix semi-sweet with dark chocolate chips.
Stirring frequently during the first hour is key to prevent burning and ensure smooth texture.
The hot chocolate can be kept warm in the crockpot on the warm setting for up to 4 hours.
Feel free to add a pinch of salt or cinnamon for extra depth of flavor.