Print

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 56 reviews

This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and indulgent beverage perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting treat. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet baking chocolate, and a touch of vanilla, it’s cooked low and slow for a perfectly melted and smooth hot chocolate experience without the hassle of constant stirring.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 7 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a 3-quart slow cooker, add the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, coarsely chopped semi-sweet baking chocolate, salt, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
  2. Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker securely with a lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 2 hours, whisking every 20 to 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate melts uniformly and to prevent it from sticking to or burning on the bottom.
  3. Check Temperature and Consistency: After 2 hours, your hot chocolate should be smooth and warmed through, ideally between 135°F and 165°F. Give it a final whisk to reincorporate any settled chocolate.
  4. Serve Warm: Serve the hot chocolate warm. Stir again before serving as the chocolate tends to settle slightly at the bottom.

Notes

  • Semi-sweet baking chocolate or baking bars can be substituted with an equal weight of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
  • For a richer, more indulgent hot chocolate, substitute 1 cup of milk with an additional cup of heavy cream.
  • Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
  • Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  • Stovetop alternative: Add all ingredients to a stock pot and warm over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, whisking frequently to melt chocolate and prevent scorching.