Description
Warm up your day with this luxuriously creamy Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate! Made with real dark chocolate, whole milk, and a splash of cream, it’s deeply rich and perfectly sweetened. Set it and forget it—your Crockpot does all the work while you get ready to sip and savor. Ideal for holidays, snow days, or cozy nights in with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, or a caramel drizzle.
Ingredients
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3 cups whole milk (must be whole for the best texture!)
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1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for extra decadence)
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6 oz dark or bittersweet chocolate (62%–70%), coarsely chopped
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3 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (or Dutch-processed cocoa)
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2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional — enhances chocolate flavor)
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Pinch kosher salt
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Toppings of choice: marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, extra chocolate chips
Instructions
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Add ingredients: In the bowl of a slow cooker, combine milk, half-and-half (or cream), chopped chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, espresso powder (if using), and salt.
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Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to help the chocolate melt and the mixture blend smoothly.
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Finish: Once the chocolate is fully melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy, stir well to ensure everything is combined.
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Serve: Ladle into mugs and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings. Keep on warm for serving throughout a party or gathering.
Notes
For a less intense flavor, use milk chocolate instead of dark.
Make it dairy-free by using full-fat oat milk or almond milk and a dairy-free chocolate.
Double or triple the recipe for a crowd—perfect for holiday gatherings or winter parties
Stirring occasionally while cooking helps prevent chocolate from settling or burning on the edges.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker hot chocolate, crockpot hot chocolate, hot chocolate recipe, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate