Rich, creamy hot cocoa can be made from scratch with barely two minutes work.
You might be asking yourself why anyone would want to use the crock-pot to make hot chocolate. As it turns out, it’s kind of nice not to hover over the stove stirring a pot!
I combined everything in the slow cooker when we started pulling out our Christmas decorations this weekend. By the time the tree was decorated, we had hot chocolate ready and waiting for us.
If you prefer a stove-top recipe, this Simple Homemade Hot Cocoa is an awesome winter treat as well.
Slow cookers or crockpots are an appliance of which I have more than one. If you are an avid slow cooker user like I am, you might understand the need for more than one. So, let’s talk about my favorites:
First up is this 6-quart slow cooker that has a locking lid. These crockpots are fantastic for transporting foods. Mine has gone everywhere from church potlucks to barbecues, game nights to Thanksgiving dinner. However, fair warning, these slow cookers run crazy hot. Low is closer to a boil than a simmer, the warm setting actually simmers. So trust me when I say HIGH is high.
My everyday slow cooker is this 8-quart Crockpot. It’s my go-to appliance for cooking large roasts and big batches of chili. Fun fact: did you know that a full 4-quart cooker, actually cooks more slowly than a half-full 8-quart cooker?
For just cooking a few pounds of chicken to shred for enchiladas or other smaller recipes, this 3-quart version is perfect.
Thanksgiving has become a breeze since I have mastered how to hold all of the side dishes using these medium-sized round slow cookers.
If you aren’t a fan of the idea of keeping more than one slow cooker in the house, these CrockPockets are a game-changer when it comes to preparing and holding multiple dishes at the same time. They slide into a standard 6-quart crockpot, dividing it into two sections that are perfect for serving different side dishes or keeping taco fillings warm for parties.
Creamy Crock-Pot Cocoa
Ingredients
- 5 cups milk
- 1½ cups chocolate chips I used a bittersweet dark chocolate
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in the crock-pot and cook on HIGH for 90 minutes or on LOW for 2-3 hours. Whisk well to combine. Pour into mugs and serve topped with whipped cream or marshmallows. Enjoy!
Jenn S says
This is a great idea!! Especially for parties.. people can just help themselves and like you said, no hovering around the stove!!
Allison says
How long do you suppose one can keep it warming in the crockpot? Would it curdle or something if left too long while the crockpot was turned on or fall below a safe temperature if you leave it in with the power off after it finishes the initial warming?
Mary says
I think it would be fine on the warm setting for at least a couple hours, just stir it occasionally.
Kim says
I absolutely LOVE your recipes. I follow you on FB. Thank you!!! I can't wait to try this.
Kitchen Ninja says
I'm a sucker for ANYTHING made in the crockpot — thanks, Mary!
Pam says
This is perfect for a long afternoon of decorating!
Tricia @ Saving room for dessert says
Well yum! Nice 🙂
Anonymous says
Does it get that 'skin' on the top of it?
Mary says
It shouldn't have a skin on top. If it sits too long without stirring, just stir it and there won't be a layer on top. The chocolate should dissolve fully into the milk. I hope that helps!
Magnolia Verandah says
Never thought to make in a crock pot – perfect if you don't want to hover over the stove.
Michelle Mann says
Great Idea for the kids On snow days running into house to warm up after sled riding!
pmaltbie says
Try adding some crushed peppermint. Mm good.
pmaltbie says
Try adding some crushed peppermint. Mm good.
Naomi Lawrence says
What fat content of milk do you suggest?
Mary says
I use whole milk, but any milk will work fine. I've also made this with both coconut and almond milks.
Anonymous says
Can i use milk chocolate chips?
Mary says
Sure thing, use whichever chocolate you like best!
Aviva says
I'm wondering if this can be left on warm from the beginning for 20 hours untouched? Thanks
Mary says
20 hours? I wouldn't recommend doing that. I have no idea how that would work.