The Best Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Recipe
Introduction
This rich and creamy hot cocoa made in a crock pot is the ultimate comforting drink for chilly days. Easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd, it combines velvety chocolate and creamy milk for a luscious treat that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Marshmallows, for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour the whole milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk into your crock pot. Stir to combine.
- Step 2: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sift in the cocoa powder. Stir well to mix.
- Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt to enhance the flavors.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on low heat for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate melts evenly.
- Step 5: Once fully melted and smooth, switch the crock pot to the “warm” setting to keep the cocoa hot without scorching.
- Step 6: Ladle the hot cocoa into mugs, top with marshmallows, and serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, substitute half of the whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to the cocoa for a spicy kick.
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Storage
Store leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the crock pot on the “warm” setting, stirring occasionally to prevent burning or separation.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this hot cocoa without a crock pot?
Yes, you can melt the ingredients in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Cooking time will be shorter, about 15-20 minutes, until smooth and heated through.
What is the purpose of the sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness to the hot cocoa, creating a rich texture without needing to add extra sugar.
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The Best Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This rich and creamy hot cocoa recipe is made effortlessly in a crock pot, delivering perfectly melted semi-sweet chocolate and a smooth, velvety texture. Ideal for cozy gatherings, it combines whole milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk with cocoa powder and vanilla, slow-cooked to perfection and topped with marshmallows for the ultimate comforting winter drink.
Ingredients
Hot Cocoa Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Chocolate Mix
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Flavoring and Toppings
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Marshmallows, for topping
Instructions
- Combine Dairy Ingredients: Pour the whole milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk into your crock pot. Stir gently to combine all the dairy components evenly.
- Add Chocolate and Cocoa: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the mixture and sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir thoroughly to distribute the chocolate and cocoa throughout the milk mixture.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and the salt. This enhances the flavor profile and balances the sweetness.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2 hours. Make sure to stir the mixture every 30 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even melting of the chocolate.
- Keep Warm: After the hot cocoa is fully melted and smooth, switch the crock pot to the “warm” setting to maintain the ideal serving temperature without overcooking.
- Serve: Ladle the hot cocoa into mugs, top generously with marshmallows, and serve immediately for a warm, comforting treat.
Notes
- Stirring every 30 minutes is crucial to prevent the chocolate from sticking to the sides and burning.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate if preferred for a richer taste.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative.
- Adjust the sweetness by altering the amount of sweetened condensed milk to taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently on the stovetop or in a microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot cocoa, crock pot hot chocolate, slow cooker cocoa, winter drinks, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot cocoa recipe
