This Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug in a cup! With rich chocolatey goodness, it’s super creamy and perfect for the holiday season.
On cozy nights, I love to sip this treat while wrapping gifts. And the best part? Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. Easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This is the base of your hot chocolate, giving it a creamy texture. If you want to lighten it up, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk, but it may change the richness.
Evaporated Milk: Adds extra creaminess. You can substitute it with more whole milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream: This makes the hot chocolate extra luxurious. If you’re keeping it lighter, you can replace it with half-and-half or omit it altogether, but it will be less creamy.
Chocolate Chips: Use good quality chocolate for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap them for cocoa powder (approximately 1/3 cup of cocoa) though you’ll need to adjust the sugar.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened is best here. You can use Dutch-process cocoa to deepen the chocolate flavor but be mindful it may alter the color of your drink.
How Can I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate Is Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth and creamy hot chocolate is patience. Stirring occasionally while cooking is essential, as it helps the chocolate melt evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- After adding your ingredients, gently mix until they’re combined but don’t over-stir initially.
- Cover your crockpot to help everything heat up evenly. Stir every 30 minutes to ensure no lumps form.
- If you see any clumps of chocolate, don’t fret! Just keep stirring, and they’ll melt down for a silky finish.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delightful hot chocolate that everyone will love this Christmas Eve!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (64 oz) carton whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Large marshmallows for topping
- Optional: Whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, or peppermint sticks for garnish
Time Estimate:
This delightful hot chocolate recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the crockpot for 2 hours. So, just set it and enjoy! Perfect for cozying up with family on Christmas Eve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Bases:
In a large crockpot, pour in the whole milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. This creamy mixture will set the foundation for your delicious hot chocolate.
2. Add the Chocolatey Goodness:
Next, toss in the semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, along with the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. This is where all that rich flavor comes from!
3. Mix Gently:
Using a spoon, stir the ingredients gently to combine. Just a light mix is all you need; you don’t want to splash anything out of the pot!
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 2 hours. Make sure to stir every 30 minutes for an even consistency. This will allow the chocolate to melt completely and create a smooth, creamy drink.
5. Season and Taste:
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Take a quick taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more sugar.
6. Keep It Warm:
Set your crockpot to the ‘warm’ setting to keep the hot chocolate cozy until you’re ready to serve.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, topping each with a generous amount of large marshmallows. If you like, add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or a peppermint stick for that festive flair.
8. Share the Happiness:
Gather your family and friends around to enjoy this warm and indulgent Christmas Eve treat together. Cheers to a cozy night!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk Alternatives?
Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly depending on the alternative you choose.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate, start with less sugar and taste as you go. You can always add more sugar later if you prefer it sweeter. Additionally, using unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate can help balance the sweetness.
Can I Make This in a Regular Pot Instead of a Crockpot?
Yes! If you don’t have a crockpot, you can make this hot chocolate in a regular pot on the stovetop. Just combine all ingredients in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.
How Do I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up!
