This warm and cozy peppermint hot chocolate is a treat for chilly days! Just throw some milk, chocolate, and peppermint into your crockpot, and let it work its magic.
Honestly, I could sip on this all day, especially with some fluffy whipped cream on top. It’s like a warm hug in a mug! ☕️ Who wouldn’t love that?
Making it in the crockpot means I can enjoy the yummy smells while I relax—perfect for a lazy afternoon with friends or family. Give it a try, and you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This is key for a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk. However, I find that the richness of whole milk really elevates the flavor.
Semi-Sweet and White Chocolate Chips: These give your hot chocolate that delicious chocolatey goodness. If you’re short on one type, you can substitute more of the other or even try dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: This contributes to the luxurious texture. You can use half-and-half if you don’t have heavy cream, but the hot chocolate may be a little less creamy.
Peppermint Extract: This adds that classic holiday flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use crushed peppermint candies instead, but be sure to adjust the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
How Do I Keep My Hot Chocolate From Burning in the Crockpot?
Keeping your hot chocolate from burning is crucial for a smooth result. Here are some tips:
- Always set your crockpot to low. High heat can scorch the milk and chocolate.
- Stir the mixture every 30 minutes to ensure everything is blending well and nothing is sticking to the sides.
- Use a wooden spoon for stirring; it’s gentle and won’t scratch your crockpot.
By taking these steps, you’ll have a delicious and perfectly creamy hot chocolate every time!
Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (12 oz) bag white chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peppermint hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let it cook in the crockpot for 2 to 3 hours. Perfect for kicking back and relaxing while the flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Base:
Start by pouring the whole milk into your crockpot. This will be the creamy base of your hot chocolate, so make sure to use a measuring cup for accuracy!
2. Adding the Chocolate:
Next, add both the semi-sweet and white chocolate chips into the milk. The combination of these chocolates will give your hot chocolate its rich, sweet flavor.
3. Mixing in the Cream and Sugar:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Give it a good mix to combine everything before moving on. This creates a wonderfully smooth and creamy texture.
4. Cooking:
Cover the crockpot with its lid, set it to low, and let it cook for 2 to 3 hours. Remember to stir it every 30 minutes or so. This will help ensure that nothing burns or sticks to the sides, and it helps everything blend nicely!
5. Adding Peppermint Flavor:
Once the chocolate chips are melted and everything is smooth, it’s time to add the peppermint extract. Stir it in well to get that festive peppermint flavor throughout!
6. Serving:
Ladle the delicious hot chocolate into mugs. Feel free to make it as generous as you like—there’s no such thing as too much hot chocolate!
7. Topping it Off:
Top each mug with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. To add a nice festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top of the whipped cream.
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, cozy flavors of your homemade crockpot peppermint hot chocolate. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Enjoy this rich and creamy treat that is sure to delight everyone during chilly winter days or holiday celebrations!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it’s evenly heated.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Without a Crockpot?
Yes! You can make this hot chocolate on the stovetop. Just combine all the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth, then serve as usual!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Sugar-Free?
Yes! You can use sugar substitutes like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level you prefer since sugar substitutes can vary in sweetness compared to regular sugar.