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Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate

Section: Indulgent Desserts for Sweet Endings

This creamy hot chocolate is made effortlessly in a slow cooker by combining whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, cocoa, and sweetened condensed milk. The gentle heat melts the chocolate evenly, creating a rich, smooth drink perfect for warming up on chilly days. Stir occasionally during cooking to blend all flavors beautifully. Serve hot with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. This slow cooker method makes preparation simple, leaving more time for enjoying good company and holiday cheer.

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Nina and her friend are cooking together.
Brought to You By Nina
Last updated on Thu, 13 Nov 2025 23:46:05 GMT
A red mug filled with marshmallows and chocolate. Bookmark
A red mug filled with marshmallows and chocolate. | ninatable.com

This Crock Pot Hot Chocolate is the perfect way to enjoy a rich and creamy chocolate drink with minimal effort. It transforms simple ingredients into a cozy, indulgent treat that warms you from the inside out. Whether you are slowly sipping by the fire or serving a crowd at a holiday gathering, this recipe brings that classic comfort in a big way.

I first tried this recipe during a chilly December weekend and instantly loved how smoothly the slow cooker melded all the chocolatey flavors together. Now it’s my go-to when friends come over on snowy nights because it feels special but is unbelievably easy.

Ingredients

  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: provides deep chocolate flavor choose a good quality brand like Hershey’s for best results
  • Sweetened condensed milk: the only sweetener here so be sure to use sweetened not evaporated for the right sweetness and creaminess
  • Whole milk: makes the base rich and smooth whole milk is key for that full-bodied texture
  • Heavy whipping cream: adds extra creaminess and a luscious mouthfeel you can substitute half and half but the richness will be less intense
  • Vanilla extract: enhances the chocolate flavors and adds warmth to the drink
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips: melt into the mix for that real chocolate experience without turning overly sweet milk or dark works but will change the flavor profile
  • Mini marshmallows: optional topping for classic hot chocolate appeal whipped cream is another great option

Instructions

SCOURING THE COCOA MIXTURE:
Heat one cup of whole milk until very hot but not boiling either in a microwave safe bowl or on the stove. Whisk in the cocoa powder gently until fully dissolved. This step intensifies the chocolate flavor and ensures no lumps in your final drink.
COMBINING INGREDIENTS IN THE CROCK POT:
Pour the sweetened condensed milk remaining whole milk heavy whipping cream vanilla extract and semi sweet chocolate chips into your 4quart slow cooker. Stir in the warm cocoa milk you made in the first step to combine everything thoroughly.
SLOW COOKING AND STIRRING:
Cover and cook on low heat for about two hours. Stir vigorously every 20 to 30 minutes while warming to help the chocolate chips melt evenly and prevent them from sticking or clumping. It is essential to keep stirring so you get a wonderfully smooth creamy hot chocolate.
SERVING AND GARNISHING:
When all the chocolate chips have melted and the mixture is hot ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream and add a miniature candy cane or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for festive flair.
A wooden spoon in a crock pot filled with hot chocolate.
A wooden spoon in a crock pot filled with hot chocolate. | ninatable.com

My favorite ingredient is the semi sweet chocolate chips. They melt into a luscious texture that isn’t too sweet but full of chocolate goodness. One year I made this recipe to surprise my kids after a long day of sledding and their smiles as they sipped the warm chocolate remain one of my best winter memories.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover hot chocolate in a tightly sealed container or pitcher inside the refrigerator. Consume within three days for the best flavor and freshness. When reheating heat gently in short bursts in the microwave or on the stove while stirring occasionally to prevent scorching or separation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of semi sweet chips you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips though this will alter the sweetness and richness slightly. For a dairy free option full fat coconut milk or almond milk can substitute milk and cream with good results but the texture will be less creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with mini marshmallows whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy touch. You can also offer peppermint sticks or candy canes on the side for mixing in peppermint flavor. For an adult twist add a splash of Kahlua Peppermint Schnapps or RumChata to the mug.

A red cup filled with marshmallows and chocolate.
A red cup filled with marshmallows and chocolate. | ninatable.com

Serve warm with your favorite toppings. This slow cooker hot chocolate is perfect for sharing on cold nights.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Is milk better than water for hot chocolate?

Milk creates a richer, creamier drink, enhancing the chocolate’s flavor compared to using water.

→ Can this be prepared on the stovetop instead?

Yes, gently heat the ingredients on medium while whisking often to prevent chocolate from sticking or burning.

→ What distinguishes hot chocolate from hot cocoa?

Hot chocolate uses real melted chocolate and milk, while hot cocoa typically involves cocoa powder mixed with milk or water.

→ What are some flavorful variations to try?

Add peppermint extract for a minty twist or spice it up with liqueurs like Kahlua or Peppermint Schnapps.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in the fridge covered for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in short microwave bursts, stirring between intervals.

Creamy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate

Smooth, indulgent hot chocolate made creamy and easy with slow cooking techniques.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
120 minutes
Total Time
130 minutes
Brought to You By: Nina

Recipe Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Great for Beginners

Cuisine Type: American

Portions: 6 Serves (6 standard mugs)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Dairy and Cream

01 2 cups whole milk
02 1 cup heavy whipping cream

→ Sweeteners and Chocolate

03 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
04 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
05 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ Flavors and Toppings

06 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 Mini marshmallows, for garnish

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Heat 1 cup of whole milk in a microwave-safe container until nearly boiling. Whisk in the cocoa powder until fully dissolved and smooth.

Step 02

In a 4-quart or larger slow cooker, mix sweetened condensed milk, remaining whole milk, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir in the cocoa milk mixture prepared earlier.

Step 03

Cover and cook on low heat for 2 hours, stirring vigorously at intervals to ensure chocolate chips melt evenly and the mixture is homogeneous and warm throughout.

Step 04

Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and garnish with mini marshmallows or whipped cream and a mini candy cane if desired.

Extra Suggestions

  1. Stirring frequently during cooking prevents chocolate from sticking and ensures a smooth texture.
  2. Leftover hot chocolate can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in short microwave bursts.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Slow cooker (4-quart capacity or larger)
  • Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
  • Whisk

Allergy Details

Read ingredient lists for allergens carefully, and consult a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy and soy (in chocolate chips)

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

The provided nutrition information is for guidance and shouldn't replace expert medical advice.
  • Calories: 360.5
  • Fat: 15.2 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 46 grams
  • Proteins: 7.3 grams