Crock-Pot Hot Chocolate

The only thing better than a big batch of hot chocolate on a chilly day is one that stays warm hours after making it. That's Crock-Pot hot chocolate! Just add all of the ingredients to a slow cooker, head out for a walk, then come back to a perfectly piping hot mug of cocoa. One brilliant trick to keep the hot chocolate lump-free is to stir together the cocoa powder and sugar first, before adding the wet ingredients. This will ensure that they melt together perfectly in the slow cooker. For grown-up servings, splash in a little Irish cream liqueur or a dash of whiskey, and for the little ones, just add some extra homemade marshmallows or a dollop of whipped cream. Top with chocolate shavings or chocolate sprinkles too, if you have them! This is sure to warm you right up.

How long does it take a crock pot to heat hot chocolate?

It takes about two hours to heat up a full pot of hot chocolate, so plan accordingly. The best thing about heating hot chocolate in a crock pot is that the whole pot stays hot for the duration of your party of gathering, no babysitting on the stove needed.

What's the difference between semisweet and bittersweet chocolate?

Both semisweet and bittersweet are types of chocolate considered to be dark. Semisweet is a little sweeter, with about 60% cocoa to milk and sugar in the bar. Bittersweet is less sweet, with about 70% cocoa. Skip milk chocolate as a substitute here—it doesn't have the strong flavor needed to balance out the sugar, milk, and cream in this recipe.

What heat should be used for Crock-Pot hot chocolate?

Stick to low heat for this Crock-Pot recipe; high heat could scald the milk and cream. Remember to turn your slow cooker to the warm setting once the hot cocoa is ready.

How do you make this hot chocolate without a slow cooker?

It's easy! Just combine all of the ingredients in a pot on the stove. Cook over low heat, stirring often, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is hot and smooth.

What makes hot chocolate taste better?

There are lots of things you can add too hot chocolate to make it taste better: a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract make hot chocolate feel a little more special, while adding instant espresso or instant coffee brings out a deeper chocolatey flavor. And of course adding marshmallows or whipped cream will make your finished hot chocolate taste even better too!

How do you store leftover hot chocolate?

Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The hot chocolate can be reheated in the microwave for a quick, chocolaty treat!