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The Best Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 137 reviews
  • Author: Harper
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and the salt. This enhances the flavor profile and balances the sweetness.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

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Find it online: https://harperellington.com/the-best-hot-cocoa-in-a-crock-pot-recipe/