This warm and cozy hot chocolate is perfect for chilly days! Made in your crockpot, it’s a mix of chocolate, milk, and a touch of peppermint for that festive zing!
Honestly, who can resist hot chocolate that smells like a candy cane? It’s a holiday favorite! I love serving it with whipped cream and marshmallows on top—yummo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives the hot chocolate a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use skim milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind it might not be as creamy!
Heavy Cream: This adds extra creaminess and richness. If you’re watching calories, you could substitute with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is key for that deep chocolate flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use sweetened cocoa, just reduce the sugar in the recipe.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: They melt down beautifully and add richness. Dark chocolate chips are a great substitute if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor.
Peppermint Extract: Adds that refreshing minty flavor. If you want something different, consider using almond extract for a nutty twist!
How Do I Ensure My Hot Chocolate is Super Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that silky texture depends on how you mix and cook your ingredients. Here are some tips to nail this step:
- Mix the ingredients well from the start to avoid clumps of cocoa powder.
- Cooking on low heat helps prevent scorching. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth.
- Adding the extracts just before serving helps maintain their fresh flavors.
- For an extra touch, blend the mixture briefly before serving to make it frothy!
Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful crockpot peppermint hot chocolate takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 2 to 3 hours of cooking time on low. It’s perfect for setting and forgetting, allowing the warm, chocolaty goodness to fill your home while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
In your crockpot, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and sugar. Mix gently with a spoon until everything is well combined. The cocoa powder might clump, but don’t worry, it’ll melt nicely as you cook!
2. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about 2 to 3 hours. Stir the mixture gently every 30 minutes or so to help the chocolate melt evenly and ensure a smooth, creamy hot chocolate experience.
3. Add Flavoring:
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the pure vanilla extract and peppermint extract. This is where the magic happens! It will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that screams “holiday cheer!”
4. Final Touches:
Give the hot chocolate a final stir and taste it! If you want it sweeter, feel free to add more sugar, or if you like a more intense peppermint flavor, add a bit more peppermint extract, but be careful—it packs a punch!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with whipped cream. For that festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the whipped cream. Not only does it add a lovely crunch, but it also looks beautiful!
6. Cozy Up:
Serve your delicious peppermint hot chocolate immediately and enjoy the cozy flavors with family and friends. Don’t forget to savor each sip—it’s a delightful treat!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with non-dairy options like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just ensure that the non-dairy milk you choose is unsweetened to avoid overpowering the flavor.
How Do I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mixture of milk, cream, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and sugar in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pour it into the crockpot and heat it on low for about 2 to 3 hours, adding the vanilla and peppermint extracts in the last 10 minutes.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Yes, definitely! The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with 1/2 cup, then taste and add more if you like it sweeter. Keep in mind that the toppings, like whipped cream and crushed candy canes, will add extra sweetness too!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it’s heated evenly. You may want to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess!
