This crockpot hot chocolate is thick, rich and made for a crowd. Chocolate chips melt into milk, cream and sweetened condensed milk, and the slow cooker keeps it warm while guests help themselves.
Set up a toppings bar with whipped cream, marshmallows and crushed candy canes, and you have the easiest holiday party drink.
Why You Will Love This Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- Serves 12. Makes about 10 cups.
- Hands-off. Just whisk every 30 minutes.
- Rich and creamy. Real chocolate, not powder.
- Stays warm. Switch to WARM for serving.
Ingredients for Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- Chocolate chips: 2 cups (12 oz / 340 g) semi-sweet, or half milk chocolate for a sweeter drink.
- Milk and cream: Whole milk plus heavy cream give the richest texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and a silky body.
How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Combine
Add the milk, cream, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips and salt to a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker and stir.
Step 2: Slow cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, whisking every 30 minutes, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is hot.
Step 3: Finish
Whisk in the vanilla until smooth.
Step 4: Serve
Switch to WARM, ladle into mugs and top as you like.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- Use LOW only. HIGH can scorch the milk and make the chocolate grainy.
- Whisk well. Chocolate settles at the bottom until it fully melts.
- Do not let it boil. Keep it steaming, not bubbling.
- Hold it right. On WARM, whisk every 30 minutes and serve within 2 hours.
What to Serve with Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Set up a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, crushed candy canes and cinnamon sticks. Pair it with our Christmas crockpot recipes.
Easy Variations
- Peppermint. Add 1/2 tsp peppermint extract.
- Mexican hot chocolate. Add 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne.
- White hot chocolate. Use white chocolate chips and add 1 tsp vanilla.
- Lighter. Use 2% milk and skip the cream.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, whisking, or in the microwave in short bursts.
Equipment I Used
- 4 to 6-quart slow cooker: the right size for this recipe. Fill it between half and two-thirds full for even cooking.
- Stainless steel measuring cups and spoons: for sauces and spice blends.
- 3-piece ceramic serving bowl set: takes food straight from the crock to the table.
- Large airtight food storage container: for leftovers and freezer portions.
New to slow cooking? The Easy Slow Cooker Recipes guide is a beginner-friendly collection of easy crockpot breakfasts and dinners.
Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Add the milk, cream, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips and salt to a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker and stir.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, whisking every 30 minutes, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is hot.
- Whisk in the vanilla until smooth.
- Switch to WARM, ladle into mugs and top as you like.
Notes
Crockpot Hot Chocolate FAQ
Can you make hot chocolate in a crockpot?
Yes. Cook the ingredients on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, whisking every 30 minutes until smooth.
How long can hot chocolate stay in a crockpot on WARM?
About 2 hours for the best texture. Whisk every 30 minutes.
Can I make crockpot hot chocolate ahead?
Yes. Make it, refrigerate up to 3 days, and reheat on LOW for 1 to 2 hours, whisking often.
Why is my hot chocolate grainy?
It got too hot. Cook on LOW and do not let it boil.
