As the chilly air wraps around me like a cozy blanket, there’s nothing quite like the indulgent warmth of homemade hot cocoa to brighten my day. I remember the first time I tried this luscious Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot; it was a simple gathering with friends, and the comforting aroma wafting through the house drew everyone in. Made with rich chocolate and creamy goodness, this recipe effortlessly transforms an ordinary evening into something magical.
Imagine the decedent blend of whole milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk, simmering together in a leisurely dance, while chocolate chips melt to create pure bliss. In just two hours, your kitchen will be filled with the sighs of contentment from family and friends as they gather around, eager to dive into mugs topped with fluffy marshmallows. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just treating yourself after a long day, this crowd-pleasing delight is sure to melt away the stress. Don’t miss out on this delightful experience—let’s dive into the recipe together!
Why You'll Love This Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot
- This Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot is incredibly easy to make, requiring just five minutes of prep time before everything simmers together for hours of deliciousness.
- The rich and creamy flavor profile is sure to delight your taste buds and provide the ultimate comfort on chilly days.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in.
- Finally, the visual appeal of mugs overflowing with marshmallows will have everyone rushing to the table for a warm, inviting treat.
Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Ingredients
Indulge in this luscious treat!
For the Base
• 2 cups whole milk – for that creamy texture that makes hot cocoa truly comforting.
• 1 cup heavy cream – adds an extra layer of richness and velvety smoothness.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – sweetens your cocoa while providing a silky consistency.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder – creates deep chocolate flavor; ideal for your Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot.
For the Chocolate Boost
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – ensures your drink is extra chocolaty and irresistible.
For Flavor Enhancement
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – deepens the overall flavor and adds a hint of sweetness.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – balances flavors and enhances the chocolate richness.
For Toppings (Optional)
• Marshmallows – perfect for topping, giving that cozy, nostalgic touch to your hot cocoa experience.
How to Make Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot
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Set up the crock pot: Begin by placing your crock pot on a sturdy surface. Set it to low heat and whisk together the cocoa powder with sweetened condensed milk directly in the pot. Stir until smooth and creamy.
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Combine the creams: Next, pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Give everything a good whisk to ensure all ingredients blend harmoniously together.
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Cover and cook: Place the lid on your crock pot and let the mixture cook on low for 2 hours. Don’t forget to stir every 30 minutes so that nothing sticks to the bottom and all the flavors meld beautifully.
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Final stir: Once the cooking time is up and the chocolate chips are melted, give it one last stir. If you desire a sweeter drink, feel free to adjust sweetness to your liking at this stage.
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Serve: Using a ladle, pour the hot cocoa into mugs and top with fluffy marshmallows—feel free to toast them if that’s your style!
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the hot cocoa base (milk, cream, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything together in the crock pot but not turning it on yet. Simply refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, set the crock pot to low heat and let it cook for 2 hours while stirring every 30 minutes. This way, you’ll have creamy, rich hot cocoa ready to warm hearts and create memorable moments with minimal effort!
Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Variations
Customize your hot cocoa for a cozy, unique experience that warms the heart and pleases the taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, tropical twist. The coconut flavor adds an exotic touch to every sip.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon for a warm spice that dances on your palate. This twist adds warmth and complexity, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Flavor Infusion: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut instead of vanilla. This will infuse your hot cocoa with subtle, unexpected delights that keep everyone guessing!
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Sugar-Free: Replace sweetened condensed milk with a sugar-free version or use your favorite sugar substitute. This swap ensures you enjoy the comforting drink without the extra sugar.
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Minty Fresh: Stir in peppermint extract or crushed peppermint candies to give your hot cocoa a refreshing holiday twist. Add a festive flair, making it a perfect seasonal treat!
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Chunky Chocolate: Toss in chopped dark chocolate for a more intense chocolate flavor and delightful texture. The melty chunks create pockets of richness, making every sip exciting.
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Nutty Delight: Consider adding a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut butter for a creamy nutty flavor. This will bring a whole new layer of richness and nutrition to your indulgence.
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Berry Bliss: Top your cocoa with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast that brightens your drink. The juicy bursts balance the richness, offering a delightful experience.
What to Serve with Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot?
Warm up your day with delightful pairings that elevate the comforting experience of this rich cocoa treat.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced warmth perfectly complements the sweet, creamy cocoa, adding a festive touch.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These buttery bars bring a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of hot cocoa, perfect for sharing.
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Chocolate Chip Muffins: Soft and sweet, these muffins make for a lovely indulgence, enhancing the cocoa’s rich chocolate notes for a chocolate lover’s paradise.
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Mini Marshmallow Brownies: Double the marshmallow goodness! These decadent brownies with gooey edges pair wonderfully for satisfying any sweet tooth.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of this fragrant drink provides a refreshing, fruity contrast that beautifully balances the richness of your cocoa.
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Salted Caramel Popcorn: The sweet and salty crunch of caramel popcorn is a fun snack that enhances the cozy vibes while adding a delightful texture.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop on the side, letting it melt a little into the hot cocoa for a luxuriously creamy experience.
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Whipped Cream: Go classic with a dollop on top, adding airiness that offsets the dense cocoa vibe.
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Red Wine: A warm glass of rich red wine can bring an unexpected sophistication, creating a cozy, adult twist to your hot chocolate experience.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot
Fridge: Store leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
Freezer: If you want to make a larger batch, freeze hot cocoa in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Always reheat slowly on the stove for best results, adding a splash of milk if the cocoa appears too thick after freezing. Enjoy the comforting taste of your Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot anytime!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For your Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot, make sure to whisk the cocoa powder and sweetened condensed milk thoroughly to avoid clumps.
- Always use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream to achieve the perfect creamy texture your hot cocoa deserves.
- Stirring every 30 minutes during the cooking process is key to preventing any burning or sticking at the bottom of the pot.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and simply combine them when you’re ready to cook.
Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Recipe FAQs
What type of cocoa powder should I use for this Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot?
For the best results, I recommend using unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder. It offers a richer and smoother chocolate flavor compared to natural cocoa powders.
How do I know when my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
When selecting your ingredients, especially the dairy, look for expiration dates. Whole milk and heavy cream should be fresh and free of any sour smell. The sweetened condensed milk should be in a sealed can without any dents or signs of spoilage.
How can I store leftover hot cocoa, and how long does it last?
Store any leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
Can I freeze hot cocoa, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot, pour the cooled cocoa into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as liquids expand when frozen. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat slowly on the stove. Adding a splash of milk can help return its creamy texture.
What should I do if my hot cocoa turns out too thick?
If you find that your hot cocoa is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of milk or cream while reheating, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore that creamy, sipping quality that makes hot cocoa so comforting.
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance?
This recipe, as written, contains dairy products. For those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, I recommend substituting the whole milk and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Be sure to check that the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk are also dairy-free. Enjoy!
Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set up the crock pot: Begin by placing your crock pot on a sturdy surface. Set it to low heat and whisk together the cocoa powder with sweetened condensed milk directly in the pot. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the creams: Next, pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Give everything a good whisk to ensure all ingredients blend harmoniously together.
- Cover and cook: Place the lid on your crock pot and let the mixture cook on low for 2 hours. Don't forget to stir every 30 minutes so that nothing sticks to the bottom and all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Final stir: Once the cooking time is up and the chocolate chips are melted, give it one last stir. If you desire a sweeter drink, feel free to adjust sweetness to your liking at this stage.
- Serve: Using a ladle, pour the hot cocoa into mugs and top with fluffy marshmallows—feel free to toast them if that’s your style!
