This cozy hot chocolate is perfect for Christmas Eve! Made with rich cocoa, creamy milk, and a dash of vanilla, it warms you up and fills your heart with holiday cheer.
To be honest, I love topping mine with fluffy marshmallows and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. It feels like a warm hug in a mug! Enjoy sippin’ as you unwrap gifts! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy base for the hot chocolate. You can substitute with 2% milk or a nut milk if you want to lighten it up or make it dairy-free, but it may be less rich.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These are key for that delightful chocolate flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, dark chocolate can add a nice depth. You may also try a dairy-free chocolate for a vegan twist!
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This adds an extra chocolatey punch. If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can increase the amount of semi-sweet chocolate, but remember to adjust the sugar accordingly.
Granulated Sugar: Adjusting the sugar lets you control sweetness to your taste. You can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative to keep it lower on the glycemic index.
Cornstarch: This is optional, but it helps thicken the hot chocolate. If you want it creamier, you can skip the cornstarch and enjoy a richer texture.
How Do I Ensure My Hot Chocolate Is Smooth?
To avoid any lumps in your hot chocolate, here are some tips:
- Mix the dry ingredients together before adding them to the milk; this helps evenly distribute them.
- Stir gently but thoroughly after adding chocolate and cocoa to the milk to incorporate everything well.
- Stir the mixture every 30 minutes while it cooks to keep it smooth and prevent burning at the bottom.
Following these steps ensures you get that creamy, luscious hot chocolate everyone loves, ready to share with family and friends!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Mini marshmallows, for garnish
- Whipped cream (optional), for garnish
- Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder (optional), for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious hot chocolate requires about 10 minutes of prep time and then a slow cooking time of 2 to 3 hours. Perfect to set up while you prepare for your Christmas Eve festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Base:
Start by pouring 6 cups of whole milk into your crockpot. This will create the creamy base for your delicious hot chocolate. Remember, whole milk gives it that rich, decadent flavor!
2. Adding the Chocolate and Cocoa:
Next, add in the entire package of semi-sweet chocolate chips or the chopped chocolate. Sprinkle in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, cornstarch (if using), and salt. This mixture will make your hot chocolate ultra-chocolatey and sweet. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Just be careful not to splash, it gets messy quickly!
3. Cooking the Mixture:
Set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for about 2 to 3 hours. Make sure to stir the mixture every 30 minutes to help melt the chocolate fully and keep everything smooth and consistent. You want it hot and melted but not burning at the bottom!
4. Finishing Touches:
Once the hot chocolate is hot and smooth, stir in the vanilla extract for that extra depth of flavor. Now, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs.
5. Toppings Galore:
Top your warm mugs of hot chocolate with fluffy mini marshmallows and whipped cream if you desire. For an extra festive touch, you can dust the top with a bit of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to enjoy your cozy drink! This hot chocolate will keep warm in your crockpot for hours, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family as you gather around the tree or the fireplace on Christmas Eve.
Cheers to a wonderful holiday filled with warmth, love, and delicious hot chocolate!
Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?
Absolutely! You can use 2% milk, almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the creaminess of the hot chocolate. For a richer flavor, stick to full-fat options!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. This will still give you a rich and delicious hot chocolate without the animal products.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave and stir well before serving. You may need to whisk it a bit to restore the creamy texture.
Can I Add Flavors to Customize My Hot Chocolate?
Definitely! Feel free to add a pinch of peppermint extract for a minty twist, or mix in some coffee for a mocha flavor. You can also add a splash of flavored syrups, like caramel or hazelnut, to enhance your hot chocolate experience!
