This Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a cozy treat! It’s creamy, chocolatey, and has a refreshing hint of peppermint—perfect for chilly days.
Making this drink is a breeze! Just toss in your ingredients, let the slow cooker work its magic, and enjoy. I love to top mine with whipped cream and a few extra candy canes for fun! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess to the hot chocolate. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk. For lactose-free options, almond or oat milk also work well.
Heavy Cream: This makes your hot chocolate rich and decadent. If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or use half-and-half instead.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These provide a delightful chocolate flavor. Dark chocolate chips or even milk chocolate can be used. You could also use cocoa powder as a substitute, but your hot chocolate might lack some creaminess.
Peppermint Extract: It’s crucial for that festive flavor. If you’re not a fan of peppermint, try vanilla or almond extract for a different twist!
Whipped Cream: Adds a finishing touch. You can easily make it from scratch using heavy cream or use store-bought for convenience.
How Do I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate Is Smooth and Creamy?
Getting a smooth, creamy hot chocolate is all about the blending of ingredients. Start with a good quality chocolate—it’s worth it! Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Combine all the base ingredients (milk, cream, chocolate, sugar, cocoa) evenly in your crockpot.
- Stir gently to mix, but don’t rush it! Let the crockpot do the work over a low setting.
- Stir occasionally, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom to prevent sticking.
- Once the chocolate is melted and the mixture is combined, add your extracts and stir until fully incorporated.
Patience is key here—it ensures that everything melds together perfectly, leaving you with a deliciously smooth hot chocolate.
How to Make Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delightful refrigerating treat requires 15 minutes of preparation time and about 2 hours in the crockpot. Just combine your ingredients, let it slowly simmer, and you’ll have a rich hot chocolate awaiting you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Begin by adding the whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder into your crockpot. Make sure to use the correct measurements for a perfect balance of flavors!
2. Stir it Together:
Gently stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula until everything is well combined. It’s okay if it looks a little lumpy at this stage; it will blend smoothly as it cooks.
3. Time to Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Let the hot chocolate cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. You want to make sure the chocolate is melted and the mixture is hot without burning at the bottom.
4. Add Flavor:
Once the hot chocolate is smooth, remove the lid and stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Give it a good mix to infuse the flavors throughout!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the warm hot chocolate into mugs. Don’t skimp on the whipped cream—add a lovely dollop to each mug. Finally, for that festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the whipped cream.
6. Cozy Up!
Enjoy this warm, creamy peppermint hot chocolate while snuggling up on the couch or sharing it with loved ones. Cheers to a delicious winter treat!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can! Low-fat milk will work, but the hot chocolate might not be as rich and creamy. If you’re looking to retain some creaminess, consider mixing low-fat milk with some heavy cream or half-and-half.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can easily make this hot chocolate vegan by swapping the whole milk and heavy cream for plant-based alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, and using dairy-free chocolate chips. Just ensure that your sweeteners and peppermint extract are also vegan-friendly!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to bring back the creamy consistency.
Can I Make This in a Regular Pot Instead of a Crockpot?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a crockpot, simply combine all the ingredients in a large pot over low heat. Stir frequently until everything is melted and combined, then enjoy right away.