The Best Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Recipe

Perfect for special occasions like Christmas Eve or Christmas morning or just trying to warm up after a cold day, this hot cocoa is great anytime. It’s simple to prepare, keeps warm for hours, and fills your home with the inviting aroma of chocolatey goodness—making it the ideal drink to share with family and friends.

Who doesn’t love sipping on warm drinks during a holiday parties or snow days? I mean, does it get any better?! The next time you have a craving for a hot chocolate, skip the Swiss Miss hot cocoa packets and make this homemade recipe instead. The difference in taste is undeniable.

Since you are here and love a from-scratch recipe, check out this Homemade Marshmallows Recipe.

Ingredients for this hot cocoa in a crock pot recipe

Here is the ingredient list you will need to make this crockpot hot chocolate recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Whole Milk: is the base and provides and a nice texture.
• Heavy Cream: adds extra richness and a velvety smooth consistency to the drink.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: sweetens the creamy hot chocolate while enhancing the texture.
• Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: melts into the drink, delivering the rich chocolate flavor. Or use milk chocolate chips if you want to increase the sweetness level. If you don’t have chocolate chips on hand you can always use chopped up chocolate bars as well! Just make sure to use high quality ingredients!
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: gives an even richer chocolate flavor, adding depth and a slightly bitter balance.
• Vanilla Extract: enhances the overall flavor of the slow cooker hot chocolate.
• Pinch of Salt: is optional but it balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate’s natural flavors.

How to make crock pot hot chocolate?

This is how you can make the best hot chocolate. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this page for the full step-by-step instructions! 

1. Pour the milk, heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into your Crock Pot.
2. Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate chips melt evenly.
3. After 2 hours, whisk the hot cocoa to ensure it’s fully blended and smooth. Switch to the “keep warm” setting if serving throughout the day.
4. Serve in mugs and garnish with mini marshmallows or whipped cream with chocolate shavings!

Why do you need to make this easy hot cocoa recipe?

• It’s a fun way to enliven your holiday party and impress your guests.
• This easy crockpot recipe only requires a handful of simple ingredients you can easily find at the grocery store.
• It’s the best way to warm up after a cold winter day.
• You can customize it anyway you want by adding fun and unique flavors.

Frequently asked questions – FAQ

How do I store my leftover hot chocolate?

Let the hot cocoa cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 or 4 days. Reheat on the stove top or in the Crock Pot on low heat.

Can I turn this into an adult beverage?

You sure can! Have the little ones enjoy this hot chocolate as is and make yourself a crock pot hot chocolate with alcohol by adding some Baileys Irish Cream, Peppermint Schnapps, Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur, Rumchata, Kahlua, or even Brandy!

What type of flavors can I add to this hot cocoa in a crock pot recipe?

• Add a few drops of peppermint extract and top the whipped cream with crushed candy canes.
• Include a few tablespoons of caramel sauce to the mixture as it cooks and drizzle some extra on top of the whipped cream when it’s done.
• Drop a few cinnamon sticks while the hot cocoa simmers to really infuse a holiday spice. Be sure to top the whipped cream with a dash of cinnamon as well.
• Substitute half or all of the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips to make a white hot chocolate.

How many servings does this recipe make?

It makes about 8-10 servings. If you need more than that for a party, you can easily double the recipe on the recipe card by hitting the “2x” button. If you need less than 8 servings and don’t want leftovers, you can half the recipe. You’ll just have to do the math, or have AI do it for ya!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in the Crock Pot and refrigerate it before heating. When ready to serve, heat it on low, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through and smooth.

How long can I leave the hot cocoa on “keep warm”?

You can safely leave it on the “keep warm” setting for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.

Can I make a vegan version of this hot cocoa in a crock pot?

Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy options like almond, coconut, oat, or cashew milk. Make sure to use the extra creamy versions. Then use dairy-free chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk to make your own vegan version.

The Best Hot Cocoa in a Crock Pot Recipe

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