This Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug in a mug! Made with creamy milk, rich chocolate, and a hint of vanilla, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
Gather around with family and friends, and let the slow cooker do all the work. Just stir, sip, and enjoy! I love topping mine with marshmallows for that extra sweetness! 🎄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This is the base for your hot chocolate. If you’re looking for a richer taste, half-and-half works wonderfully. For a lighter version, you can even use almond milk or oat milk.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These provide the main chocolate flavor. If you’re a fan of dark chocolate, try using dark chocolate chips instead. White chocolate can also be used for a different twist!
Evaporated Milk: This adds creaminess. If you don’t have it on hand, you can replace it with an extra cup of whole milk or a non-dairy option.
Sugar: You can adjust this to suit your taste. If you prefer, try using maple syrup or honey for sweetness instead.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a nice aromatic flavor. You could also use flavored extracts like almond or peppermint for a different touch.
How Do I Ensure My Hot Chocolate Doesn’t Burn in the Crockpot?
Keeping hot chocolate from scorching in a crockpot is important for a smooth experience. Here’s how to do it:
- Set the crockpot on low heat to give the chocolate time to melt without burning.
- Stir gently every 30 minutes. This keeps everything well mixed and prevents sticking at the bottom.
- If you notice any sticking or burning, lower the heat level and add a splash of extra milk to loosen it up.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect cozy beverage, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious for everyone to enjoy!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (64 oz) carton whole milk (can substitute with half-and-half for richer hot chocolate)
- 1 (12 oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (5.5 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder (optional, for garnish)
- Candy canes (optional, for stirring and garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful hot chocolate can be ready in about 2 to 3 hours in the crockpot. With no prep work except for pouring and stirring, you’ll have cozy drinks to enjoy with your loved ones in no time! Perfect for the holiday season!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by pouring the whole milk into your large crockpot. This will be the creamy base of your hot chocolate!
2. Add the Chocolate and Flavoring:
Next, add in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, evaporated milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together nicely.
3. Cook on Low:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours. Make sure to stir every 30 minutes to help the chocolate melt evenly and to avoid any scorching on the bottom.
4. Taste and Adjust:
When the hot chocolate is warmed and the chocolate is fully melted, give it a taste. If you want it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more sugar to suit your tastes!
5. Serve and Top:
Once you’re happy with the flavor, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each one generously with mini marshmallows—because who doesn’t love marshmallows?
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
If you like, sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder over the marshmallows for an extra pop of flavor. You can also serve candy canes on the side for an extra festive feel. They can be stirred into the hot chocolate for a yummy peppermint twist!
Enjoy your cozy, festive Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate with family and friends! Cheers to warm hearts and holiday cheer!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that different non-dairy milks may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of the hot chocolate.
What If I Don’t Have Evaporated Milk?
No worries! You can replace evaporated milk with an additional cup of whole milk or a non-dairy milk substitute. This will still give you a deliciously creamy hot chocolate.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hot chocolate a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge after it’s made, and reheat it gently on the stove or in the crockpot on low heat the next day. Stir well before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick after refrigeration.
