Crockpot Hot Chocolate is the perfect cozy treat for chilly days. It’s creamy, rich, and full of chocolatey goodness, made easy by letting the slow cooker do all the work. You get warm, melty chocolate mixed with milk and a touch of sweetness, making it just right for sipping slowly by the fire or after playing in the snow.
I love using this recipe because it’s so simple to throw together, and the slow cooker keeps it hot for hours without burning or sticking. I usually add some marshmallows or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving—they add a little extra comfort and fun to every cup. It’s a recipe that always brings smiles and feels like a warm hug in a mug.
When friends come over during cold weather, I like to set up a hot chocolate station with whipped cream, crushed peppermint, and chocolate shavings so everyone can customize their drink. It makes the whole experience feel special and cozy. Crockpot Hot Chocolate isn’t just a drink, it’s a little moment of happiness shared with the people you care about.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: These give the hot chocolate its creamy, rich texture. If you want a lighter version, you can swap whole milk for 2% or use a dairy-free milk like oat or almond, but the creaminess will be less intense.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds sweetness and thickness without needing extra sugar. If you don’t have it, you can add sugar and a little more cream, but the texture might change.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips & Cocoa Powder: I prefer using real chocolate chips over powder alone for a deeper chocolate flavor. You can use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your sweetness preference. Unsweetened cocoa powder adds depth without extra sweetness.
Vanilla Extract & Salt: These subtle extras boost flavor and balance the sweetness. Don’t skip the pinch of salt—it really helps bring out the chocolate notes.
How Do I Make Sure My Crockpot Hot Chocolate Stays Smooth and Doesn’t Burn?
Getting velvety smooth hot chocolate in a crockpot is easy if you follow a few tips:
- Stir every 30 minutes to help the chocolate melt evenly and prevent it from sticking to the sides or bottom.
- Keep the crockpot on low heat to avoid scorching the dairy or chocolate.
- Combine all ingredients gently before heating, so they start blending well as they warm up.
- Add vanilla at the end to preserve its fresh flavor.
Doing this little stirring routine and cooking slowly really makes a big difference in texture and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – it gently heats and blends the chocolate for hours without burning.
- Long-handled spoon – perfect for stirring every 30 minutes without burning your hand.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the milk, cream, and cocoa just right.
- Heat-safe ladle – makes pouring the hot chocolate into mugs neat and easy.
- Whisk (optional) – if you want to mix ingredients smoothly before cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon while cooking for a warm, spicy twist.
- Stir in a splash of peppermint extract or add crushed candy canes to make it festive and fresh.
- Swap semisweet chocolate chips for white or dark chocolate to change the richness and sweetness.
- Add a shot of espresso or a bit of instant coffee to deepen the chocolate flavor and add a mocha touch.
Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Chocolate shavings or drizzle, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
The recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time and 2 to 3 hours of cooking time in the crockpot. Stir every 30 minutes while it cooks to keep the chocolate smooth and perfectly melted.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
Pour the whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt into the crockpot. Stir gently to mix everything before turning on the heat.
2. Cook Until Smooth and Hot:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Remember to stir every 30 minutes so the chocolate melts evenly and the mixture stays smooth.
3. Add Vanilla and Serve:
Stir in the vanilla extract just before serving. Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream, and garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if you like.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Long-handled spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heat-safe ladle to serve
- Optional: whisk for initial mixing
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a cinnamon stick or pinch of ground cinnamon during cooking for a warm spice flavor.
- Mix in peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
- Use white or dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for different tastes.
- Stir in a shot of espresso or instant coffee for a mocha twist.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for Crockpot Hot Chocolate?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less creamy, but it will still taste delicious.
How Should I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Pour leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
Can I Prepare This Hot Chocolate in Advance?
Yes! You can mix all the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate it. The next day, heat it on low, stirring every 30 minutes until hot and smooth.
What’s the Best Way to Customize the Flavor?
Try adding cinnamon, peppermint extract, or a shot of espresso to the crockpot while cooking. You can also switch up the type of chocolate chips depending on your sweetness preference.
