This cozy hot chocolate is perfect for Christmas Eve! Just toss cocoa, milk, and chocolate chips in the crockpot, and let it warm up slowly while you enjoy holiday fun.
It’s like a hug in a mug! I love to top mine with fluffy marshmallows and a sprinkle of peppermint. Yum! Just be careful not to drink it all in one go! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This gives the hot chocolate a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk. For extra richness, a mix of whole milk and cream works wonders!
Heavy Cream: It adds richness to the drink. If you want a lighter version, you can skip it or substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free spin.
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: These provide a rich chocolate flavor. You can swap for dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate taste or even milk chocolate if you prefer sweeter. White chocolate can also be a fun twist!
Cocoa Powder: Choose unsweetened for control over sweetness. If you like a richer chocolate flavor, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa. And if you run out, you can use more chocolate chips instead, adjusting the sugar accordingly.
How Do I Ensure My Hot Chocolate Is Creamy and Well-Mixed?
The key to a smooth and creamy hot chocolate lies in thorough mixing and monitoring the heat. Here are some tips to help out:
- Mix well: When adding the cocoa and sugar, ensure they dissolve completely in the milk. A whisk can help break up any clumps.
- Stir regularly: Stir every 30 minutes while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even mixing. This step is crucial since cocoa can settle at the bottom!
- Low heat is your friend: Keeping it on low heat ensures that the chocolate melts gradually without burning. Patience is key!
- Add vanilla last: Stirring in vanilla extract just before serving keeps its flavor vibrant, enhancing the chocolate!
With these tips, your hot chocolate will be delicious and generously creamy for everyone to enjoy!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Optional: ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 2 hours to cook in the crockpot. So, you can set it and forget it while getting ready for Christmas Eve festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large crockpot, pour in the 6 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Add the 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. These ingredients will create a rich and indulgent base for your hot chocolate.
2. Mix Well:
Gently stir the mixture with a whisk or a spoon to ensure everything is well combined. Make sure there are no clumps of cocoa powder. This step is important for a smooth texture!
3. Heat in the Crockpot:
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Allow the hot chocolate to cook for about 2 hours. Be sure to stir every 30 minutes to help the chocolate melt completely and to prevent any settling at the bottom.
4. Add Flavoring:
When you’re about 10 minutes away from serving, gently stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This final touch brings out the delicious flavors!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and pile on the mini marshmallows for a delightful topping. If you like, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra festive flavor.
6. Cozy Up:
Enjoy your warm and creamy hot chocolate on a chilly Christmas Eve! This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends while creating cozy holiday memories.
With these easy steps, you’re sure to have the perfect Christmas Eve treat! Cheers!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate, start with 1/2 cup of sugar and taste the mixture as it cooks. You can always add more sugar later if needed!
Can I Make This in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture the day before, store it in the fridge, and warm it up in the crockpot the next day. Just give it a good stir to combine before reheating.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! In addition to mini marshmallows, consider using whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair!
