This Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate is warm, cozy, and oh-so-delicious! With rich chocolatey flavors and creamy milk, it’s perfect for sipping by the fire.
Making this hot chocolate in a crockpot means less fuss for you! Just toss in the ingredients and let it do its magic while you unwrap gifts and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This gives your hot chocolate a creamy base. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can swap some or all for 2% milk or even almond milk for a dairy-free version. I usually stick with whole milk for that rich taste.
Heavy Cream: It adds extra creaminess. If unavailable, feel free to use half-and-half, or for a lighter choice, some coconut milk may work just fine.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa provides that deep chocolate flavor. If you’re low on cocoa powder, you can use chocolate syrup, adding a little less sugar to balance it out. But I prefer the unsweetened for a richer taste.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Chopped chocolate brings a wonderful depth to your drink. You can substitute it with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter drink, or even dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a lovely aroma. If you’re out, you can replace it with almond extract for a different layering of flavor—just use it sparingly as it can be stronger.
How Do You Keep Hot Chocolate Creamy and Smooth?
To keep your hot chocolate creamy, the key lies in stirring and monitoring the heat. When using a crockpot, you’ll need to stir occasionally to ensure everything blends well and prevent sticking. Here are some steps:
- Mix your dry ingredients into the milk thoroughly before adding chocolate.
- Keep the lid on when cooking, but make it a habit to give it a gentle stir every 30-45 minutes until it’s ready.
- After adding vanilla, you can continue to whisk lightly for a few seconds; this helps keep the mixture integrated and delightful!
By following these tips, you’ll ensure a smooth and velvety hot chocolate perfect for any holiday gathering!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Mini marshmallows, for serving
- Ground nutmeg or cocoa powder, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious hot chocolate takes around 5 minutes of prep time and about 2 to 3 hours to cook in the crockpot. It’s perfect for setting up before your guests arrive, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine All Ingredients:
In a large crockpot, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Next, add the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix all those dry ingredients into the milk, ensuring there are no clumps.
2. Add the Chocolate:
Now it’s time to bring in the chocolate! Toss in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate pieces. This will create that rich and creamy flavor we all love!
3. Cook and Stir:
Cover your crockpot and set it to low heat. Allow it to cook for about 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally—this is important to ensure everything melts together smoothly.
4. Stir in Vanilla:
Once your chocolate is melted and the mixture is smoothly blended, stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavor.
5. Ready to Serve:
Now, pour the hot chocolate into mugs or bowls. Top each serving generously with mini marshmallows for that cozy, festive touch!
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
For a special garnish, lightly dust the tops with ground nutmeg or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. It adds a nice finishing touch to your festive drink!
7. Keep it Warm:
If you’re serving the hot chocolate slowly over time, keep it warm on the crockpot’s “warm” setting. Stir occasionally to maintain that creamy goodness!
Enjoy a cozy Christmas Eve with this rich, creamy crockpot hot chocolate—perfect for sharing with family and friends by the fireside!
Can I Use Different Kinds of Milk?
Absolutely! While whole milk creates the creamiest hot chocolate, you can substitute it with 2% milk or lactose-free milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Almond or oat milk also works well for a non-dairy alternative, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for a smooth consistency.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this hot chocolate in advance! Simply follow the cooking instructions, let it cool, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat in the crockpot or on the stove and stir well before serving.
How Can I Sweeten My Hot Chocolate Further?
If you prefer your hot chocolate sweeter, feel free to add more sugar or use a flavored syrup, such as peppermint or hazelnut. Just remember to adjust the sweetness gradually, tasting as you go to find your perfect balance!
