There’s nothing quite like a cup of creamy hot chocolate to make Christmas Eve feel magical. This Crockpot Hot Chocolate recipe is a luxurious, velvety drink made with simple ingredients and just the right amount of sweetness to warm your heart and soul.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in with loved ones, this recipe is a lifesaver when you want to serve a crowd with minimal effort. Toss the ingredients into your crockpot, let them simmer to perfection, and in a few hours, you’ll have a festive treat ready to pour.
Whether you’re enjoying it by the fireplace or after a night of caroling, this hot chocolate is sure to become a Christmas tradition.
2. Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate shavings
- Peppermint sticks
- Cinnamon powder
3. Directions
- Combine ingredients: Add whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt to your crockpot. Stir well to combine.
- Cook: Cover and set the crockpot to low. Cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly.
- Stir before serving: Once the hot chocolate is creamy and smooth, give it a final stir to blend all the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or any of your favorite garnishes.
4. How to Prepare
The key to perfect Crockpot Hot Chocolate is patience. Letting the mixture heat slowly ensures a smooth, creamy texture without scorching the chocolate. Stirring occasionally prevents any lumps from forming and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
If serving for a party, keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting so guests can help themselves throughout the evening. Offer a topping bar with whipped cream, marshmallows, and fun extras like crushed candy canes or caramel drizzle for added holiday cheer.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 2-3 hours
- Total time: 3 hours (hands-off)
6. Servings
This recipe serves 6-8 generous portions.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Yes! Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Use dairy-free chocolate chips to complete the recipe.
2. Can I make this hot chocolate less sweet?
Adjust the sweetness by reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk or using dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
4. Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in a large pot and heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Can I spike this hot chocolate for adults?
Yes! Add a splash of Baileys Irish Cream, peppermint schnapps, or Kahlúa for a festive adult treat.
8. Conclusion
Christmas Eve Creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate is a recipe that captures the magic of the holiday season. Its rich, velvety texture and decadent chocolate flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. The simplicity of preparing it in a crockpot means you can spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen.
Gather your loved ones, pour a warm mug, and create cherished memories as you sip on this delightful drink. Make this hot chocolate part of your Christmas traditions, and it’ll bring smiles year after year. Happy Holidays!