As the colder weather arrives and the holiday season draws near, I always find myself looking for warm, comforting drinks. Nothing beats a rich cup of hot chocolate to make things feel extra special. I’ve gathered two fantastic hot chocolate recipes that you are sure to love, perfect for any festive gathering or a quiet night in.
Whether you need to serve a crowd or want a quick, classic holiday drink, these recipes have you covered. Let’s make some cozy, delicious hot chocolate!
Jump to Recipe:
Warm Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
This creamy hot chocolate is ideal for serving a gathering, letting your slow cooker do all the work. It’s perfect for Christmas Eve or any holiday party, offering a warm drink for everyone.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Quality Cocoa Powder: Using a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder makes a big difference in the chocolate flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds a wonderful creaminess and sweetness without making the drink too thin.
- Keep it Warm: After cooking, set your crockpot to the “warm” setting. Stir it every now and then to keep it smooth.
What You Need for Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- 6 cups milk (any kind you like)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
⏱️ Time: 2-3 hours (slow cooker)🍽️ Yields: 8-10 servings
How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
Pour the milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk into your large slow cooker. Stir these liquids together well until they are evenly mixed.
Step 2: Add Dry Mix
Add the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt to the liquid mixture in the slow cooker. Whisk everything thoroughly until there are no lumps and all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Make sure to stir it every 30-45 minutes. The hot chocolate is ready when it is hot and creamy throughout. Stir in the vanilla extract just before serving.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. You can top it with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of extra cocoa powder. Enjoy this warm drink with your loved ones.
📝 Final Note
For an even richer hot chocolate, you can add about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Festive Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Nothing brings holiday cheer like the taste of peppermint and chocolate together. This stovetop recipe is quick and gives you that classic minty chocolate flavor you love, perfect for a chilly afternoon.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Peppermint Extract Power: Peppermint extract is strong, so add a small amount first. You can always add more if you want a stronger mint taste.
- Good Chocolate: Use quality chocolate chips or finely chopped baking chocolate for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- Garnish Ideas: Crushed candy canes, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings make this drink extra special and look festive.
What You Need for Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- 4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
⏱️ Time: 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Warm the Milk
Pour the milk into a medium saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it starts to steam gently, but do not let it boil. Stir it often to prevent burning on the bottom.
Step 2: Whisk in Dry Ingredients
Reduce the heat to low. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to the warm milk. Whisk constantly until the cocoa and sugar are completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Add Extracts
Stir in the chocolate chips until they are fully melted and blended into the hot chocolate. Remove from heat, then stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Pour the hot peppermint chocolate into mugs. Top with your favorite garnishes like whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or crushed candy canes. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive flavors.
📝 Final Note
For a fun adult version, a shot of peppermint schnapps can be added to individual mugs.
