There’s nothing more comforting than a warm mug of Crockpot Hot Chocolate on a cold day. This slow cooker version is rich, creamy, and deeply chocolatey, made with simple ingredients and almost no effort. Just add everything to the crockpot, let it slowly melt and blend, and you’ll have a cozy drink that tastes like a dessert in a cup.

This recipe is perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, game nights, or snowy evenings. Unlike instant packets, crockpot hot chocolate has real chocolate flavor, a silky texture, and stays warm for hours. It’s also ideal when you’re serving a crowd because everyone can help themselves.

Once you try hot chocolate made this way, it’s hard to go back to the powdered kind.

Hot Chocolate Milk in the Crockpot

What Is Crockpot Hot Chocolate?

Crockpot hot chocolate is a slow cooked chocolate drink made by combining milk, cream, cocoa, and chocolate in a slow cooker. The gentle heat melts everything evenly and prevents scorching, resulting in a smooth, rich drink.

Why the crockpot works so well:

Keeps chocolate from burning
Creates a creamy, well blended texture
Stays warm for serving
Requires very little hands on time

It’s especially popular during winter holidays because it’s easy, comforting, and universally loved.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, creamy, and not watery
Made with real chocolate
Easy dump and stir method
Perfect for parties and holidays
Customizable for kids or adults
Keeps warm for hours in the slow cooker

This is the kind of recipe that disappears fast once people start pouring mugs.

ingredients for crockpot hot chocolate drink — Simple ingredients come together to make the best crockpot hot chocolate drink.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

6 cups whole milk
1½ cups heavy cream
1½ cups semi sweet chocolate chips
½ cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Add Ins

Mini marshmallows
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Caramel drizzle
Cinnamon stick
Peppermint extract

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest result. You can use 2%, but avoid skim.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and body. Half and half works as a lighter option.
Chocolate Chips: Using a mix of semi sweet and milk chocolate balances sweetness.
Cocoa Powder: Deepens chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened for best control.
Sugar: Adjust based on how sweet your chocolate chips are.

How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate

This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep and does the rest on its own.

Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

Pour milk and heavy cream into the slow cooker. Add chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Whisk gently to combine as much as possible before heating.

Step 2: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on:

LOW for 2–3 hours, or
HIGH for 1–1½ hours

Stir every 20–30 minutes to help the chocolate melt evenly and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Stir Until Smooth

Once everything is melted, whisk well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

If the hot chocolate seems too thick, add a little more milk. If too thin, let it cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Keep Warm and Serve

Turn the crockpot to WARM and serve directly from the slow cooker. Stir occasionally while serving.

serving crockpot hot chocolate from slow cooker — Perfect for parties, holidays, or cozy nights in.

Recipe Tips for the Best Hot Chocolate

Stir regularly while melting
Use good quality chocolate chips
Don’t let it boil
Adjust sweetness at the end
Keep lid on while warming

These small steps make a big difference in texture and flavor.

Variations You Can Try

Extra Thick Hot Chocolate

Add:

2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp milk
Stir in during the last 30 minutes

This creates a European style thick hot chocolate.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Add ½ tsp peppermint extract
Top with crushed candy canes

Perfect for Christmas gatherings.

Spiced Hot Chocolate

Add ½ tsp cinnamon
Pinch of chili powder or cayenne

Adds warmth and depth without overpowering the chocolate.

Dairy Free Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Use:

Full fat coconut milk
Almond or oat milk
Dairy free chocolate chips

Results are still creamy and rich.

Adult Hot Chocolate

Stir in:

Baileys
Kahlúa
Peppermint schnapps
Dark rum

Add alcohol after cooking, not during.

Serving Ideas

Set up a hot chocolate bar with toppings
Serve in mugs with whipped cream
Pair with cookies or donuts
Offer alongside holiday desserts
Serve at winter parties or school events

This drink instantly makes any gathering feel cozy.

marshmallows melting in crockpot hot chocolate — Melty marshmallows make every sip better.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container
Refrigerate for up to 3 days

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat
Or microwave in short intervals, stirring between

Avoid boiling to maintain smooth texture.

Make Ahead Tip

You can make this hot chocolate a day ahead, refrigerate, then reheat in the crockpot on LOW before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per cup)

Calories: 280–320
Protein: 7–9g
Fat: 18–22g
Carbs: 28–32g

Values vary based on milk and chocolate used.

Common Problems & How to Fix Them

Too thick:
Add warm milk a little at a time.

Grainy texture:
Chocolate overheated. Whisk vigorously or add a splash of cream.

Not chocolatey enough:
Add extra cocoa powder or chocolate chips.

Too sweet:
Add a pinch of salt or more milk.

FAQs About Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Can I use only cocoa powder?
Yes, but chocolate chips add richness and body.

Can I leave it on warm all day?
Yes, for several hours. Stir occasionally.

Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Skip alcohol and keep sweetness balanced.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your crockpot is large enough.

Can I freeze hot chocolate?
Not recommended. Dairy texture changes after freezing.

Why This Recipe Works

Slow heat prevents burning
Combination of cocoa and chocolate gives depth
Cream adds body and richness
Simple ingredients, big flavor
Perfect texture for serving a crowd

It’s reliable, forgiving, and always a hit.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Hot Chocolate Drink is rich, creamy, and made for sharing. With minimal effort and maximum comfort, it’s the perfect drink for cold days, holiday parties, and cozy nights at home.

Once you serve this at a gathering, people will ask for the recipe every time. It’s warm, chocolatey, and exactly what hot chocolate should be.

Crockpot Hot Chocolate Drink

This Crockpot Hot Chocolate Drink is rich, creamy, and made for cozy moments. Slowly warmed milk and chocolate melt together into a smooth, indulgent drink with deep chocolate flavor. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or chilly evenings at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 10

Course Dessert, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 320 kcal