Description

This slow cooker hot chocolate recipe is a rich and creamy treat perfect for cozy gatherings. Made with a blend of whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, it delivers smooth, velvety chocolate flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooking process ensures the chocolate melts perfectly, creating a luscious texture that’s ideal for serving with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Ingredients

Scale

Milk and Cream

7 cups whole milk (divided, 2% milk can also be used)
1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted)

Chocolate and Flavorings

1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (preferably Ghirardelli)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Toppings (Optional)

Whipped cream
Marshmallows

Instructions

Dissolve Cocoa Powder: Heat 2 cups of milk on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot but not boiling. Pour the hot milk into the slow cooker and add the cocoa powder. Whisk thoroughly until the cocoa powder is completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth base for the hot chocolate.
Mix Ingredients: Add the remaining 5 cups of milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and vanilla extract to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 2 hours. Stir the mixture every 30 to 40 minutes to help the chocolate chips melt evenly and prevent them from clumping at the bottom. This step is crucial for a uniformly smooth texture.
Serve: Once all the chocolate chips have fully melted and the mixture is hot, the hot chocolate is ready to serve. Ladle into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows as desired. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated on the stove or in the microwave.

Notes

Regular stirring during cooking ensures the chocolate melts evenly and blends smoothly, preventing clumps.
Using a slow cooker allows for a hands-off, gentle cooking process that enhances the creamy texture.
You can substitute 2% milk for whole milk and half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a slightly lighter version.
This recipe makes about 12 servings, perfect for a party or family gathering.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Beverage
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: slow cooker hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate recipe, winter drinks, chocolate beverage, slow cooker recipes