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Mug of best crockpot hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings on a light wooden surface

The Best Crockpot Hot Chocolate

This rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe is hands-down the best crockpot hot chocolate for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fireplace. This easy slow cooker hot chocolate featuring semi-sweet chocolate chips creates a velvety masterpiece, and the mix-and-go prep lets you relax while it simmers to perfection. Top it off with marshmallows or whipped cream for an irresistible holiday treat!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 15 servings
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups whole milk OR 3 cups whole milk and 3 cups half and half for extra richness
  • 2 cans evaporated milk 2-12 oz cans
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups chocolate chips semi-sweet chocolate works best

Equipment

  • 6-quart Crockpot
  • Ladle
  • Mugs

Method
 

  1. Gather all your goodies—milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and chocolate chips. Add them directly into your Crockpot. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
  2. Set your Crockpot to low and let it do its thing for 2–3 hours. Stir often during the first hour to make sure the chocolate melts smoothly and nothing sticks to the bottom.
  3. Once everything is perfectly creamy and heated through, switch the Crockpot to “warm” to keep the hot chocolate at a perfect sipping temperature.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, toss in some large and mini marshmallows. They’ll melt into gooey pockets of sweetness. Who could resist?
  5. Use a ladle to pour the hot chocolate into your mugs. Top with whipped cream, more marshmallows, or even a drizzle of caramel for a little extra decadence.

Notes

For an elevated experience, upgrade your chocolate by using high-quality chips or chopped chocolate bars. Want extra fun? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne, or a splash of peppermint extract for a festive twist. If you don’t have a slow cooker, simmer the ingredients on low in a stock pot, stirring often. To save time on clean-up, spray your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray before adding ingredients. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.