This cozy Crockpot Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug in a cup! With creamy white chocolate and a hint of mint from candy canes, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Making this drink is super fun! Just toss everything in your crockpot and let it do the work. You and your friends will feel like kids again with this festive treat! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich creaminess to this drink. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or almond milk. Just know that the texture might be a bit different.
Heavy cream: This adds a luxurious mouthfeel. If you’re watching calories, you can replace it with half-and-half or evaporated milk, but the result may be less creamy.
White chocolate: I recommend good-quality white chocolate chips for smooth melting. If you can’t find them, you can chop up a bar of white chocolate instead. Make sure it’s not “white chocolate flavored” as that won’t melt or taste as good.
Candy canes: Crushed candy canes add a refreshing minty taste. You can substitute peppermint extract for a stronger mint flavor, but start with half a teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Whipped cream: Homemade whipped cream is delightful, but store-bought works too. You can add a sprinkle of cocoa for an extra touch!
How Do You Ensure a Smooth and Creamy Mixture?
A key to achieving a smooth hot chocolate is allowing the white chocolate to melt gently. Here’s how to do it:
- Set the crockpot to low heat. Avoid the temptation to crank it up to high; this can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Stir the mixture every 20-30 minutes. This helps distribute the heat evenly and ensures everything melts beautifully.
- If the mixture gets too thick, add a bit more milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the sweetness!
By keeping a close eye while it cooks and stirring regularly, you’ll get a wonderfully smooth and creamy white hot chocolate every time!
Crockpot Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink takes about 10 minutes of hands-on prep time, and then your crockpot will work its magic for about 2 hours of cooking. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, and you can keep it warm for serving throughout the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into the crockpot. Then, add the white chocolate chips. Make sure to use a good-quality white chocolate for the best flavor!
2. Melt and Stir:
Set your crockpot to low heat and let it warm up. Stir the mixture every 20 to 30 minutes. After about 1 to 2 hours, the white chocolate should be fully melted, and your mixture will be smooth and warm.
3. Add Peppermint Flavor:
Once everything is melted, it’s time to spice things up! Add the peppermint extract and the crushed candy canes to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors together!
4. Infuse the Flavor:
Continue cooking on low for another 30 minutes. This extra time allows the minty flavor from the candy canes to infuse into the hot chocolate, making it extra delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s ready, ladle the creamy hot chocolate into mugs. Top each one with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that festive touch. Enjoy your cozy, minty Crockpot Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate with friends and family!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might be slightly different, so choose a non-dairy option that you enjoy!
How Can I Thicken the Hot Chocolate?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold milk, then stir it into the hot chocolate about halfway through cooking. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes for best results.
What’s the Best Way to Store Any Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, let the hot chocolate cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to help smooth it out.
Can I Make This Recipe into a dessert?
Definitely! You can turn this hot chocolate into a delicious dessert by serving it over vanilla ice cream instead of just in a mug. Drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with extra crushed candy canes for a fun twist!
