There is something magical about walking into a kitchen that smells like melting chocolate and warm vanilla. This crockpot hot chocolate is silky, deeply chocolatey and just sweet enough, with the kind of velvety body you only get from real chocolate slowly melting into creamy milk.
Making hot chocolate in the slow cooker means the stove stays free and the drink stays warm for hours. It is ideal for holiday open houses, snow days, game nights, school parties and any gathering where guests drift in and out and want a mug on demand.
SaveI started making this version years ago for a cold football Saturday when I was tired of standing over a pot stirring. Now everyone in my family asks for it the second the temperature drops, and the leftover pot never lasts past bedtime.
Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate
For Serving
Instructions
- Prep the slow cooker
Lightly spray the inside of a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray, or just make sure it is clean and dry. This helps the chocolate release from the sides and keeps cleanup easy.
- Whisk the cocoa and milk
Pour 2 cups of the whole milk into the slow cooker and whisk in the cocoa powder until no dry lumps remain. Starting with a smaller amount of milk lets the cocoa dissolve fully before the rest goes in.
- Add the remaining liquids
Pour in the remaining 4 cups of whole milk, the heavy cream and the sweetened condensed milk. Whisk gently until the mixture looks smooth and evenly brown.
- Add the chocolate and flavorings
Sprinkle in the chocolate chips, then add the vanilla extract and salt. Do not stir too hard yet, since the chips will start to melt as the milk warms.
- Cover and cook
Put the lid on and cook on LOW for 2 hours, or on HIGH for 1 hour. Avoid lifting the lid too often, because the heat escaping will slow the melting.
- Whisk halfway through
About 30 minutes into cooking, remove the lid and whisk well, scraping the bottom and sides. This stops the chocolate from settling and keeps the drink silky.
- Whisk until smooth
When the time is up, whisk vigorously until all the chocolate chips have melted and the hot chocolate looks glossy and smooth. If you see any stubborn flecks, cover and cook another 10 minutes, then whisk again.
- Taste and adjust
Taste the hot chocolate and add another pinch of salt if it tastes flat, or a tablespoon of cocoa powder whisked with a splash of hot milk if you want it more chocolatey. Let it sit a minute after any additions.
- Switch to warm and serve
Turn the slow cooker to WARM and ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each mug with whipped cream, mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, then serve right away.
Substitutions and variations
- Swap the whole milk for 2 percent milk if you want a lighter drink, though it will taste a little less creamy.
- Use oat milk or full-fat canned coconut milk in place of the dairy for a dairy-free version, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha twist, or 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a candy cane flavor.
- Use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, kid-friendly cup, or dark chocolate chips if you like it more bittersweet.
Chloe's tips
- Whisk the hot chocolate every 30 to 45 minutes while it sits on WARM so a skin does not form on top.
- Use good quality chocolate chips and cocoa powder, since they are the main flavor here.
- Do not leave it on HIGH for long periods, because milk can scorch around the edges of the crock.
- Set up a toppings bar with marshmallows, crushed candy canes, caramel sauce and cinnamon so guests can customize their mugs.
How to store it
- Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat single servings in the microwave in 30 second bursts, stirring between each, or warm a larger amount gently on the stove over low heat.
- Hot chocolate can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and whisk well before reheating.
Serving suggestions
Serve this cozy crockpot hot chocolate in big mugs with all your favorite toppings.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Add mini marshmallows or crushed peppermint candies.
- Serve with a candy cane for stirring.
- Pair with sugar cookies, shortbread or warm cinnamon rolls.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make crockpot hot chocolate ahead of time?
Yes. You can mix everything in the slow cooker and cook it up to 2 hours before guests arrive, then keep it on WARM for up to 4 hours, whisking now and then.
How long can hot chocolate stay in the slow cooker?
It stays safe and delicious on the WARM setting for about 4 hours. Stir it regularly and avoid leaving it on HIGH once it is hot.
Why is my hot chocolate grainy?
Grainy hot chocolate usually means the cocoa was not whisked in well or the heat was too high. Whisk thoroughly at the start and cook on LOW whenever possible.
Can I double this recipe?
You can double it in a 7 quart or larger slow cooker. Keep the cooking time the same, but whisk a little more often so everything melts evenly.
Let's get cooking!
Once you try this crockpot hot chocolate, it will become your go-to for chilly days and festive gatherings. Set it, whisk it, and let the cozy chocolate aroma do the welcoming for you.
