This cozy Crockpot Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug on a chilly day! It’s creamy, sweet, and has a minty twist that will make you smile.
You just toss everything in the slow cooker, let it bubble, and then enjoy! I love topping mine with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes—it’s festive fun! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Chocolate Chips: These provide the creamy base for your hot chocolate. If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, use 10 oz of white chocolate bars instead, chopped. It melts beautifully and tastes just as good.
Milk: Whole milk makes this drink incredibly creamy, but you can swap it for 2% milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that non-dairy may alter the taste slightly!
Syrup: Sweetened condensed milk adds a rich sweetness. For a lighter option, use evaporated milk with a little sugar, but it won’t be as creamy or sweet. Remember to adjust the sweetness according to your taste!
Peppermint Extract: This ingredient brings in the holiday flavor. If you want a milder mint taste, reduce it to 1 teaspoon. You can also use crushed peppermint candies if you prefer not to use extract—just add them with the candy canes.
How Do You Make the Most Creamy Hot Chocolate?
To create a super creamy and delicious hot chocolate, follow these tips during the cooking process:
- Combine ingredients and stir gently before cooking. This helps everything mix well from the start.
- Cook on low heat, which allows the white chocolate to melt slowly and prevents burning. Stir every so often!
- After adding peppermint and candy canes, give it another good mix. This ensures you get that delightful mint flavor throughout.
- Don’t rush: Let it heat for a full 30 minutes after adding candy canes to deeply infuse that peppermint zest.
Finally, top with whipped cream and extra candy canes for an inviting look. Enjoy your warming treat!
Crockpot Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (12 oz) package white chocolate chips
- 4 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 6-8 crushed candy canes (plus more for garnish)
- Whipped cream, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes gathering and mixing the ingredients, followed by 2 hours in the crockpot to let everything come together, and an additional 30 minutes for a final heat infusion with the peppermint and candy canes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Begin by placing white chocolate chips, milk, and sweetened condensed milk into your crockpot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients so they mix well together. It’s important to get everything evenly distributed at the start.
2. Cook the Mixture:
Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Allow it to cook for 2 hours. Make sure to stir it occasionally. This helps melt the chocolate evenly and blends in all the creamy goodness so you end up with a luscious hot chocolate base.
3. Add Flavorful Touches:
After the 2 hours are up, it’s time to add the fun flavors! Carefully add in the peppermint extract and the crushed candy canes. Stir thoroughly to ensure these delightful elements are mixed throughout the mixture.
4. Continue Cooking:
Let the hot chocolate cook for another 30 minutes on low. Give it a stir now and then to keep things mixed and heated properly. By this time, the peppermint flavor will infuse beautifully into the hot chocolate.
5. Serve It Up:
When everything is warm and dreamy, use a ladle to carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Be mindful of the heat!
6. Top It Off:
Don’t forget the best part! Top each mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top for a festive finishing touch that will make your drink both delicious and pretty!
7. Enjoy Your Treat!
Serve immediately while it’s still warm, and enjoy every sip of this creamy, minty festive treat. Perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring on your own!
Can I Use Milk Alternatives?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just be aware that it might alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or use a lower amount of white chocolate chips. You can always taste and add a bit more sugar or sweetener after everything is mixed if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, pour them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare the hot chocolate a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before warming up!
