Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
1 Comment Nov 13, 2024
Updated Dec 05, 2025
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This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is the easiest way to make rich, homemade cocoa from scratch. Skip the store-bought packets and let the crockpot do all the work for the perfect cozy drink.
Featured Comment
Made this for Friendsgiving and it was a HUGE it! Everyone asked for the recipe!
– cody
This is a recipe I held onto until it was absolutely perfect. I wanted a thick, creamy hot chocolate that wasn’t overly sweet, and this version hits that balance just right. It’s a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults and always disappears fast.
You can toss everything into the crockpot and forget about it, and it stays warm all Christmas morning—or for any party you’re hosting.
Key Ingredients
Wet Ingredients: Sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream (sometimes labeled heavy whipping cream), milk, and pure vanilla extract combine to make some of the best hot cocoa. You do not want to use water in this recipe.
Dry Ingredients: Sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
Dark Chocolate Chips: Adds a chocolate kick and helps with color and thickness as well.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
- Add everything to the crockpot and whisk it smooth.
- Cook until the chocolate melts and the cocoa is hot and silky.
- Ladle into mugs and enjoy it!
Sarah’s Tips & Variations
- Adding flavors: You can add peppermint extract or candy canes. You can also add festive spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Milk Substitute: This recipe was developed for cow’s milk. Using other milk is fine, though you may need to add more chocolate or sweetener.
- Keep it from burning: Once it’s hot, switch the crockpot to warm. Stir occasionally, especially during parties. Be sure to switch the slow cooker to warm so the cocoa isn’t too hot to serve.
Serving Ideas
Toppings: We love marshmallows, whipped cream and crushed peppermint! Leave these items out for your guests to help themselves.
Alcohol: Optional but fun, have Baileys or Kahlua for adults to add to their own cup.
How to Store & Reheat Leftover Hot Chocolate
Place in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply heat on the stove top or heat in the microwave in individual portions.
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe
How to Video
Ingredients
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream, (2 cups) Can use whipping cream or half and half.
- 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups milk, Whole Milk or 2% Milk
- 11 oz. package dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp. vanilla
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients in the crockpot, whisking to combine.
- Cook on high for an hour or on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until chocolate is completely melted, and the hot chocolate is heated through.
- Switch the crockpot to low or the keep warm setting, do not keep it on high or it will burn. Stir often at your party.
- Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs/cups and serve with mini marshmallows.
Sarah’s Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.
More Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipes
Mint Hot Chocolate, Candy Cane Hot Chocolate, and Grinch Hot Chocolate each bring their own fun twist to classic holiday cocoa.
Boozy Hot Chocolate, Baileys Hot Chocolate, and Mexican Hot Chocolate add a little extra warmth and flavor for the grown-ups.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate and Nutella Hot Chocolate offer cozy, creamy options perfect for any cold-weather night.
made this for Friendsgiving and it was a HUGE it! Everyone asked for the recipe!