If you’re looking for a cozy drink that warms your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate is my go-to recipe when I want something delicious and comforting. Imagine coming home from a chilly day outside, and the rich aroma of hot chocolate greets you at the door. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings or simply a treat on a busy weeknight.

Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it also fills your home with warmth and joy. Trust me, once you try this creamy delight, it will become a cherished favorite on those cold winter days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy to Make: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive party or a cozy night in, this drink fits right in.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat—perfect for sharing!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and keep it warm for guests to help themselves.
Deliciously Rich Flavor: With chocolate chips and cream, every sip is pure bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate is simple with these wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them at home already! Let’s gather everything we need.

For the Hot Chocolate Base

6 cups whole milk (OR 3 cups whole milk and 3 cups half-and-half)
2 cans evaporated milk (2-12 oz. cans)
2 cups heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

Add Flavorings: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
Make It Vegan: Substitute with plant-based milk, coconut cream, and vegan chocolate chips to keep it dairy-free.
Top It Off: Experiment with toppings like whipped coconut cream or crushed candy canes for an extra sweet touch.
Spice It Up: Add a bit of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat!

How to Make The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by mixing all the ingredients together in your 6-quart crockpot. This step is essential because combining everything at once ensures that all those creamy flavors meld beautifully as they cook together. Stir well to make sure the chocolate chips are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot on low for 2-3 hours. During the first hour, remember to stir often—this helps prevent any chocolate from burning on the bottom while blending those flavors together perfectly. Once heated through, feel free to switch it to warm if you’re not quite ready to serve!

Step 3: Add Marshmallows

About 30 minutes before serving, toss in both large and mini vegan marshmallows. Watching them melt into the hot chocolate is one of my favorite parts! They add an irresistible sweetness and texture that everyone will love.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

When it’s finally time to serve, use a ladle to pour hot chocolate into mugs. Then comes the fun part—topping! Use whatever toppings you love best; think whipped cream, sprinkles, or even crushed cookies! Enjoy every sip of this delightful treat with friends and family.

Now that you have all these tips and tricks up your sleeve, I can’t wait for you to try making The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate! It’s sure to bring smiles all around.

Pro Tips for Making The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Creating the perfect crockpot hot chocolate is a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

Use Quality Chocolate Chips: Investing in high-quality chocolate chips elevates the flavor of your hot chocolate, making it richer and more decadent.
Stir Frequently During the First Hour: This helps to prevent the chocolate from settling at the bottom and burning. Keeping everything well-mixed ensures a creamy consistency throughout.
Add Marshmallows Before Serving: Incorporating large and mini vegan marshmallows during the last 30 minutes allows them to melt perfectly, adding an extra layer of sweetness and fun to your hot chocolate.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add flavors like peppermint extract or pumpkin spice for a fun twist! These additions can make your hot chocolate feel festive and unique.
Serve in Fun Mugs: Using colorful or themed mugs not only adds to the presentation but also makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone!

How to Serve The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Serving your delicious crockpot hot chocolate can be as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ways to present this cozy drink during gatherings or on chilly evenings.

Garnishes

Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top creates a luscious finish that’s dairy-free and oh-so-delicious.
Chocolate Shavings: Grate some dark vegan chocolate over each mug for an elegant touch that enhances the rich flavors.
Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes for a festive flair, especially during the holiday season. They add a delightful crunch and minty freshness!

Side Dishes

Homemade Cookies: Pairing your hot chocolate with freshly baked cookies—like classic sugar cookies or chewy ginger snaps—creates a comforting combo.
Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies complement the creamy texture of hot chocolate beautifully, providing an indulgent treat that everyone will love.
Popcorn Bar: Set up a popcorn bar with various toppings (like caramel drizzle or sprinkles) for guests to enjoy while sipping their drinks. It’s interactive and fun!
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of hot chocolate. Choose colorful fruits like strawberries, bananas, and pineapple for visual appeal!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your crockpot hot chocolate will be the star of any gathering, bringing warmth and joy to all who indulge! Enjoy every sip!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a cozy drink in advance for those chilly days. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

Pour any leftover hot chocolate into an airtight container.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to enjoy, give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

Allow the hot chocolate to cool completely.
Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate that might help you out!

Can I use different types of milk in The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy alternative for a delicious variation.

How do I ensure my hot chocolate doesn’t burn while cooking?

Stirring often during the first hour helps incorporate the chocolate evenly and prevents burning on the bottom. After that, you can keep it on warm.

What toppings work best with The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate?

Consider topping your hot chocolate with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, chocolate shavings, or even more vegan marshmallows for a delightful finish!

How long will The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate stay fresh?

When stored properly in the fridge, your hot chocolate will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just reheat before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make The Best Ever Crockpot Hot Chocolate as I am! This recipe brings warmth and sweetness that’s perfect for gatherings or quiet nights at home. Enjoy making this creamy delight and share it with loved ones—it’s sure to brighten anyone’s day. Happy sipping!