This cozy Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the perfect drink for chilly days! It mixes rich chocolate with a hint of peppermint, making it a holiday favorite.
Making this hot chocolate is a breeze! Just toss everything in the Crockpot, let it warm up, and enjoy the sweet smell filling your home. Who doesn’t love warm chocolatey goodness? ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess to your hot chocolate. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with 2% milk or almond milk, but the texture may be a bit different.
Heavy Cream: It creates that rich flavor. Try using coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. It will still be delicious!
Chocolate Chips: I recommend a blend of milk and semi-sweet chocolate for the best taste. If you want less sweetness, use dark chocolate chips instead, or even a sugar-free version for a healthier treat.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives a deep chocolate flavor. If you only have sweetened cocoa, cut down on the sugar in the recipe.
Peppermint Extract: Essential for that minty flavor! Natural peppermint oil can also be used, just remember to use about half as much since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure the Chocolate Melts Smoothly?
The key to getting that velvety smooth hot chocolate lies in how you combine and heat the ingredients. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Combine all ingredients in the Crockpot right from the start. This way, the chocolate and liquids have time to meld together as they heat.
- Stir often during the first couple of hours. This helps everything mix well and prevents sticking.
- After cooking, don’t forget to add the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Stir well to make sure these flavors are evenly distributed.
- If the mixture seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more milk or cream while stirring to reach your desired consistency.
Following these simple tips will help you create a hot chocolate that everyone will love!
How to Make Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candy canes or candy canes, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll then need to cook it on low for about 2 hours in the Crockpot. Once it’s ready, just keep it warm until you’re ready to serve. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large Crockpot, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Add the milk chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Use a spoon to stir everything together until it is well mixed.
2. Cook on Low:
Cover the Crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally—this will help the chocolate melt evenly and keep it from sticking to the bottom of the Crockpot.
3. Add Flavors:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Give it a nice mix to ensure those festive flavors are well incorporated into the hot chocolate.
4. Keep Warm:
Switch the Crockpot to the “warm” setting if you’re not serving it immediately. This keeps your hot chocolate nice and cozy for when your guests are ready for a cup.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
When it’s time to serve, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each one generously with whipped cream and sprinkle some crushed peppermint candy canes on top for a festive touch. Enjoy your cozy treat!
This Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is sure to warm you up and bring holiday cheer. Perfect for chilly days and festive gatherings!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but keep in mind that it will result in a creamier texture. If you want to maintain that rich flavor while using low-fat milk, consider adding a bit more heavy cream.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk. Just keep an eye on the sweetness, as some non-dairy milks can be sweeter than regular milk.
How Can I Adjust the Peppermint Flavor?
If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to add a bit more peppermint extract, but do so in small increments to avoid overpowering the chocolate. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!