Crockpot Hot Chocolate the Ultimate Winter Warmer
Recipe Introduction: Crockpot Hot Chocolate Heaven
Fancy a proper cuppa? Not tea, mind you, but a crockpot hot chocolate so rich, so decadent, it'll make you forget all about that dodgy weather outside.
Honestly, is there anything more comforting?
A Sip of History
Hot chocolate's been around for ages, since the Mayans were knocking it back. This version, though? It's an easy crockpot hot chocolate twist on a classic.
Forget slaving over the hob! This is dump and-go deliciousness.
This recipe is super easy. Prep takes about 10 minutes. Let the slow cooker do its thing for a couple of hours.
You'll get enough for 6-8 mugs of pure bliss. Perfect for sharing... or not!
Why You Need This in Your Life
Let's be honest. It tastes amazing! But seriously, real chocolate has antioxidants. Plus, a warm drink can be so soothing when you're stressed.
This winter warmer drink is perfect for cozy nights. Think Boxing Day movie marathon!
This crockpot cocoa is special because it uses both bittersweet and milk chocolate. The slight bitterness stops it from being sickly sweet.
It's balanced, it's lush, and it is oh-so-easy. So, Okay, let's get this show on the road!
Scrummy Ingredients
You'll need: Milk, cream, bittersweet and milk chocolate, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. See, nothing too fancy!
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Crockpot Hot Chocolate Arsenal
Okay, let's get this show on the road! Before we dive into making this slow cooker hot chocolate recipe , let's gather our bits and bobs.
This isn't a fancy pants recipe. Honestly, half the joy is in its simplicity.
Main Ingredients for Choccy Heaven
- Whole Milk: 4 cups (950ml). Full fat gives the best richness, but oat milk works a treat too for a vegan version!
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml). Makes it extra decadent. Think proper clotted cream vibes but drinkable.
- Bittersweet Chocolate: 8 ounces (225g). Aim for 60-70% cacao for that perfect balance.
- Milk Chocolate: 4 ounces (115g). Adds sweetness and creamy texture.
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g). Adjust to taste some like it sweeter than others.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Adds that lovely background warmth.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a tiny one, to balance the sweetness.
Pro tip: Use good quality chocolate. It makes all the difference! Imagine using a cheap chocolate bar versus a fancy one, and you get the point.
Seasoning Notes: Let’s Get Spicy (If You Fancy!)
For a classic crockpot cocoa , the vanilla and salt are really all you need . But if you're feeling adventurous:
- Essential Spice Combinations : Think cinnamon and nutmeg for that festive kick.
- Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics : A tiny dash of chili powder brings the heat.
- Quick Substitution Options : No vanilla extract? A splash of vanilla essence will do in a pinch, or try using vanilla paste for a more potent flavor.
I'm not kidding. One year, I went totally overboard and added cardamom and orange zest. It was...interesting!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot): A 4-quart or larger is ideal.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurements.
- Chopping Board and Sharp Knife: For chopping the chocolate.
- Whisk or Large Spoon: For stirring everything together.
Top Tip: Slow cooker liners are your best mate for easy cleanup. Honestly, who wants to scrub burnt chocolate from the bottom of a crockpot? I certainly don't!
So there you have it the ingredients and equipment you need for the ultimate easy crockpot hot chocolate . You're only moments away from a mug of pure winter warmer drink bliss.
Okay, let's get this show on the road! Winter is here, and what's more comforting than a steaming mug of hot chocolate ? Forget the instant stuff; we're talking next level cozy.
Honestly, nothing beats a rich, decadent Crockpot Hot Chocolate . Trust me on this! This isn't just any slow cooker hot chocolate recipe ; it's the ultimate winter warmer drink .
Crockpot Hot Chocolate: Prep Like a Pro
First things first: mise en place, darling! It's a fancy term for getting your act together before you start. Chop up 8 ounces of that beautiful bittersweet chocolate and 4 ounces of the milk chocolate .
Measure out your 4 cups of milk , 1 cup of cream , 1/4 cup of sugar and that 1 teaspoon of vanilla .
Oh my gosh, I almost forgot! A quick safety note: always unplug your crockpot before cleaning it. Hot chocolate explosions are not the vibe.
Crockpot Cocoa: The step-by-step Lowdown
This is where the magic happens.
- Combine : Chuck milk , cream , both kinds of chocolate , sugar , vanilla , and a pinch of salt into your crockpot .
- Slow Cook : Cover the slow cooker. Cook it on low for 2- 3 hours or high for 1-1. 5 hours .
- Stir : Stir every 30 minutes. This stops it burning.
- Melt and Whisk : Once melted, whisk until super smooth.
- Serve : Ladle into mugs. Add toppings to your heart's content.
This recipe is perfect for Hot Chocolate for a Crowd , especially if you are using it for Hot Chocolate Bar Ideas !
Crockpot Hot Chocolate Secrets
Want to turn this simple recipe into a gourmet hot chocolate crockpot experience? Here’s a few pro tips.
- Use good chocolate, Gourmet Hot Chocolate Crockpot is only possible when you use good chocolate.
- Don't overcook it! Seriously, scorched chocolate is nasty.
- Adjust the sweetness after it's melted. Taste and add more sugar if needed.
- For an extra thick and delicious treat, you can even use this recipe as a chocolate fondue crockpot . Serve with fruit, marshmallows, and biscuits for dipping!
Enjoy your amazing easy crockpot hot chocolate . Now, go get cozy!
Alright then, let's get this show on the road! So you're gonna make some seriously scrummy crockpot hot chocolate ? Ace! Let's get down to the nitty gritty with a few extra notes to make sure your cocoa is absolutely banging.
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Get Fancy!
Right, plating and presentation! Honestly, even the simplest crockpot cocoa can look posh with a bit of effort. Swirl some whipped cream on top, maybe a few chocolate shavings.
And come on, marshmallows are a must, right? Think about setting up a proper Hot Chocolate Bar Ideas with all the trimmings sprinkles, sauces, even a cheeky shot of something for the grown ups.
Biscuits for dunking are a must. Trust me, it'll be a total crowd pleaser! Plus, it's just fun.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh!
Refrigeration's your friend. Any leftover Easy Crockpot Hot Chocolate should go straight into the fridge. Should keep for about three days, tops.
Freezing? Yeah, you can freeze it. But honestly, the texture might change a bit when you defrost it. Reheating? Just gently warm it up in a pan on the hob, stirring constantly.
Or even back in the crockpot on low. Sorted!
Variations: Mix It Up a Bit!
Fancy a twist? For a dairy-free version, just swap out the milk and cream for oat milk and coconut cream.
Still tastes amazing, promise! Got some peppermint extract knocking about? Chuck a bit of that in for a festive Winter Warmer Drink version.
Also, consider using a Chocolate Fondue Crockpot for a truly unique experience. It will be a very delicious Slow Cooker Dessert Recipe .
Nutrition Basics: A Little Treat!
Okay, so Gourmet Hot Chocolate Crockpot isn't exactly a health food, is it? But hey, it's a treat! It's got some calories, some fat, some sugar.
But also some lovely chocolatey goodness. Just enjoy it in moderation, yeah? A little bit of what you fancy does you good.
So there you have it, my friend! A few extra tips to make your Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe truly epic.
Go on, get brewing and have fun. Honestly, nothing beats a mug of homemade cocoa on a cold evening, does it?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make crockpot hot chocolate ahead of time and reheat it?
Absolutely! Once your crockpot hot chocolate is ready, let it cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave individual servings.
Just remember, like a good cup of tea, don't let it boil!
My crockpot hot chocolate is too thick/thin. How can I adjust it?
If your hot chocolate is too thick, simply stir in a little extra milk (or dairy-free alternative) until it reaches your desired consistency. On the flip side, if it's too thin, you can either cook it for a bit longer on low with the lid off to allow some of the liquid to evaporate or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold milk to thicken it up, just like Granny used to do with gravy!
I don't have bittersweet chocolate. Can I use only milk chocolate for this crockpot hot chocolate recipe?
You can use only milk chocolate, but be aware that the resulting hot chocolate will be significantly sweeter. It might be a bit much, like eating a whole box of Quality Street in one sitting! To balance the sweetness, you could try adding a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a pinch of salt.
Using a combination, as in the recipe, gives the best flavour profile.
Can I add alcohol to my crockpot hot chocolate?
You certainly can, and it’s a fantastic way to add a little extra warmth on a cold evening! I'd suggest adding your favourite tipple (such as Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlua, or a shot of rum) directly to individual mugs just before serving.
Adding alcohol to the whole crockpot can alter the flavour during the cooking process, and nobody wants that sort of trouble!
Is there a way to make this crockpot hot chocolate recipe healthier? What about sugar content?
You can definitely lighten it up! Use a lower fat milk (though this will affect the creaminess). For sugar, try a natural sweetener like stevia or maple syrup, adjusting to taste. Opting for dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage will also reduce the sugar content and add antioxidants it's practically a health drink then, right?
How do I store leftover crockpot hot chocolate?
To store any leftover crockpot hot chocolate, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring to recombine.
You might find a little separation occurs, a quick whisk will bring it back to life.
Crockpot Hot Chocolate The Ultimate Winter Warme
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 0g |
