This Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy treat! Just blend chocolate, milk, and peppermint, then let your slow cooker do the magic. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-warming!
Perfect for chilly nights, I love serving this with whipped cream on top. Plus, the smell filling the room is a bonus—I could just sip it forever! ☕️❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives this hot chocolate its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be a little different! I prefer whole milk for the richness.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient really enhances the smoothness. You could replace it with half-and-half if you want fewer calories, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Both will change the flavor a bit, but still delicious!
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These are a classic choice! If you prefer dark chocolate, feel free to swap them out. You can also use white chocolate for a sweeter version, just adjust the sugar accordingly. Personally, I love a good mix of dark and semi-sweet for balanced flavors.
Peppermint Extract: Peppermint extract offers a refreshing bite. If you run out, you can use peppermint oil, just be careful—it’s stronger, so start small and taste as you go. I often increase the extract for an extra peppermint punch!
How Do I Ensure My Hot Chocolate is Super Creamy?
To make sure your hot chocolate ends up wonderfully creamy, follow these tips:
- Cook the mixture on low heat. High heat can scorch the chocolate and milk, causing a grainy texture.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to keep everything well mixed and to help melt the chocolate evenly.
- If it’s too thick at the end, you can add a little more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Blend the hot cocoa briefly with an immersion blender if you want to create extra creaminess. Just be cautious of splashes!
Using these techniques will help you achieve the smoothest and most comforting hot chocolate, perfect for those chilly evenings or holiday gatherings!
How to Make Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 3-4 hours to cook in the crockpot. It’s a simple, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base:
Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into your crockpot. This creamy base is what makes the hot chocolate rich and delicious!
2. Add Your Chocolate and Cocoa:
Next, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) along with the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. These are the stars of our delicious drink!
3. Mix it Up:
Gently stir the mixture until everything is combined. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just make sure the chocolate and cocoa are spread throughout the liquid.
4. Let it Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 3-4 hours. Remember to stir it occasionally to help the chocolate melt evenly and prevent it from sticking to the sides.
5. Add Flavor:
Once everything is melted and heated through, stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. This is where the magic happens! Taste your hot chocolate and feel free to adjust the peppermint flavor to your liking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Using a ladle, pour the creamy hot chocolate into mugs. Finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle over some crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for that festive flair. Sip, savor, and enjoy all that cozy peppermint warmth!
This recipe yields a big batch of rich, creamy peppermint hot chocolate, making it perfect for gatherings or relaxing by the fire. Enjoy every sip!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk or even skim milk, but keep in mind that the hot chocolate will be less creamy. Adding a bit more heavy cream can help maintain some richness!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to recombine any separated ingredients.
Can I Replace the Peppermint Extract?
Absolutely! If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use crushed peppermint candies or candy canes directly in the mixture for that peppermint flavor. Just add them early in the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Dairy-Free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Just ensure that the chocolate you use is dairy-free as well!
