Description
Cozy, rich, and creamy, this crockpot hot cocoa is the ultimate comfort drink for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or a relaxing night at home. With melted chocolate, velvety milk, and a topping of fluffy marshmallows, it’s a decadent treat that’s effortless to make in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
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4 cups whole milk
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2 cups heavy cream
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1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
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Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed candy canes
Instructions
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Spray the inside of a 4- or 6-quart crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Add the milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
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Set the crockpot to low heat. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and the mixture becomes smooth.
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Stir in the vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding a little extra sugar.
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Ladle the hot cocoa into mugs and top with mini marshmallows. Optionally, place mugs under a broiler for a few seconds to lightly toast the marshmallows.
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Add optional garnishes like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed candy canes to make your cocoa festive and visually appealing.
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If serving at a gathering, set the crockpot to the “warm” setting to keep the hot cocoa at the perfect temperature without burning or thickening it too much.
Notes
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Leftover cocoa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the crockpot before serving.
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For a dairy-free version, substitute almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for the milk and cream. Adjust sweetness as needed.
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For extra richness, add a small amount of sweetened condensed milk or additional heavy cream.
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Optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warming twist to your cocoa.
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This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings; just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra liquid.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours