Why You'll Love It
- It’s hands-off—just set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy.
- The slow simmer makes it incredibly rich and silky, not grainy.
- Perfect for a crowd, keeping everyone’s mugs full without any last-minute fuss.
- The aroma alone is worth it, wrapping your home in a cozy chocolate hug.
"My kids beg for this every snow day. It makes the house smell like a chocolate shop!"
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Whole Milk: Creates the creamy base. Using whole milk gives it a richer body than lower-fat versions, making it feel like a real treat.
- Heavy Cream: A splash right at the end adds a luxurious silkiness that makes this hot chocolate stand out from the packet mixes.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: They melt beautifully and evenly into the milk. I like semi-sweet for a balance that’s not too bitter and not too sweet.
- Vanilla Extract: Added right at the end to keep its flavor bright and warm, it ties all the chocolate notes together.
- A Pinch of Salt: This might seem small, but it’s what makes the chocolate flavor pop and keeps the drink from tasting flat.
- Mini Marshmallows: Optional, but honestly, are they ever really optional? They melt into a frothy layer on top.
Complete Cooking Process
-
Ingredient Readiness:
You’ll want to have your milk measured and chocolate chips ready. No special prep needed, which is the beauty of it.
-
Flavor Development:
As the milk warms slowly over a few hours, the chocolate melts into it completely, creating a deep, unified chocolate flavor that can’t be rushed.
-
Texture Control:
Stirring it a few times as it heats prevents a skin from forming and ensures every bit of chocolate is melted into silky perfection.
-
Finishing Touches:
Stirring in the cream and vanilla right before serving gives it that final lift, making it taste freshly made even hours after it started.
-
Serving Timing:
This is best served piping hot, right from the crockpot. It’s ideal for a long, lazy afternoon or after everyone comes in from the cold.
- Use a slow cooker liner for the easiest cleanup imaginable.
- If it seems too thick after a while, just stir in a little more warm milk.
- For a fun twist, add a cinnamon stick or a splash of peppermint extract.
- Keep it on the 'Warm' setting for serving so it stays perfect for hours.
Pro Tips
You know, the first time I made this, I was worried it might scorch or taste overcooked. But honestly, the low, steady heat of the crockpot is so gentle. It just coaxes the chocolate into the milk, and you’re left with something that feels both simple and a little magical. I remember one particularly blustery day, the kids had been outside and came in with red cheeks, their hands like ice. Having this waiting for them, with some fun trail mix on the side, turned the whole afternoon around. It’s those little comforts, you know?
The essence of the drink:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Don’t boil it! High heat can make the milk grainy or scorch on the bottom.
- Stir occasionally, especially in the beginning, to help the chocolate melt evenly.
- If serving for a party, the 'Warm' setting is your best friend for keeping it perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I make this with dark chocolate?
Absolutely. Just use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You might find you want a tiny bit more sweetener, but it creates a wonderfully deep, grown-up flavor.
→ How long can I keep it warm in the crockpot?
I’ve kept it on the 'Warm' setting for a good three to four hours with no problem. Just give it a stir now and then.
→ Can I use cocoa powder instead?
You can, but you'll need to whisk it with a little hot milk first to make a paste. Otherwise, it might get clumpy. Chocolate chips are just easier for this method.
→ Is it okay to double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your crockpot is big enough. Just be sure you don't fill it more than about two-thirds full to prevent spills.
→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. The microwave can work, but it might heat unevenly.
→ Can I make it dairy-free?
Sure. Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate chips. It will be delicious, just with a different flavor profile.
Chef's Tips
For an extra rich version, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.,If your hot chocolate is too thick for your liking, simply whisk in a little more warm milk until it reaches the perfect consistency.,Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
320
Calories
7g
Protein
30g
Carbs
21g
Fat
Taste Profile
Rich, creamy, and deeply chocolatey with a warm, comforting sweetness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
2% milk will be lighter; half-and-half will be richer. Avoid skim milk for best texture.
Chopped chocolate bars melt just as well and can offer a more nuanced flavor.
This will make it dairy-free and add a subtle coconut flavor.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Peppermint Twist
Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a refreshing, festive flavor.
Mocha Version
Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder with the chocolate chips for a coffee-chocolate blend.
Mexican Spiced
Add a cinnamon stick and a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the crockpot for a warm, spicy kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Cooking on HIGH heat, which can cause the milk to scorch or curdle.
- Not stirring occasionally, leading to chocolate settling and potentially burning on the bottom.
- Adding the vanilla too early, causing its flavor to dissipate.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can combine the milk, cream, chocolate chips, sugar, and salt in the crockpot insert up to a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, place the insert into the crockpot base and start cooking, adding about 15 extra minutes to the heating time.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. It may thicken when chilled; thin it with a little extra milk while reheating.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Combine milk, most of the cream, chocolate chips, sugar, and salt in the crockpot.
Cook on LOW, stirring every 30 minutes or so, until chocolate is fully melted and mixture is hot.
Switch crockpot to WARM. Stir in remaining cream and vanilla extract.
Ladle into mugs, add toppings, and serve.
Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe
A rich, creamy hot chocolate that simmers all day in your crockpot, filling your home with warmth and the deep, comforting scent of chocolate. Perfect for gathering around on chilly afternoons or after a round of spooky Halloween fun.
Timing
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
2 Hours
Total Time
2 Hours 5 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 01 4 cups whole milk
- 02 1 cup heavy cream, divided
- 03 1 (12 ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 04 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 06 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- 01 Mini marshmallows
- 02 Whipped cream
- 03 Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Pour the milk and 3/4 cup of the heavy cream into your crockpot. Add the chocolate chips, sugar, and salt. Give it a gentle stir just to combine everything.
Cover and cook on LOW heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally with a whisk to help the chocolate melt evenly. You'll see it transform from a milky mixture with floating chips into a smooth, dark liquid.
Once the chocolate is fully melted and the drink is hot, turn the crockpot to the WARM setting. Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of heavy cream and the vanilla extract.
Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with mini marshmallows, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. Serve immediately alongside some healthy Halloween treats for a balanced spread.
Notes & Tips
- 1 For an extra rich version, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
- 2 If your hot chocolate is too thick for your liking, simply whisk in a little more warm milk until it reaches the perfect consistency.
- 3 Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Tools You'll Need
-
4-quart or larger slow cooker
-
Whisk
-
Ladle or liquid measuring cup for serving
-
Mugs
Must-Know Tips
- Don’t rush it on high heat, Low and slow is the key to a silky texture
- Stir occasionally, Prevents the chocolate from sticking and ensures even melting
- Taste before serving, You can always add a bit more sugar if you like it sweeter
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature ingredients, Not necessary, but cold milk will take slightly longer to heat
- Quality chocolate chips, The better the chocolate, the better the final drink will taste
- Add salt, It’s the secret to making the chocolate flavor really stand out
Recipe by
Mason Cole“Sweet cravings are my specialty! I turn sugar, chocolate, and imagination into pure dessert magic.” 🍰✨
Get Delicious Recipes Weekly
Join 25,000+ home cooks getting our best recipes straight to their inbox.
Free forever • No spam • Unsubscribe anytime