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Cozy Slow Cooker Spiked Hot Chocolate for Parties

slow cooker spiked hot chocolate - featured image

This rich, velvety slow cooker spiked hot chocolate is the ultimate fall party drink. Set it and forget it, then serve with your favorite toppings and a splash of bourbon or rum for a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups bourbon or dark rum
  • Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed peppermint, chocolate shavings, cinnamon sticks

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt to prevent lumps.
  2. Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Slowly whisk the cocoa mixture into the milk until fully dissolved. The mixture will look thin and grainy at this point.
  4. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir gently.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through. Do not cook on high.
  6. After 2 hours, remove the lid and stir in the vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if desired.
  7. Just before serving, stir in the bourbon or dark rum. Add 1 cup for mild warmth or up to 1 1/2 cups for a stronger kick.
  8. Switch the slow cooker to the ‘keep warm’ setting. If the hot chocolate thickens, stir in a splash of milk to thin it out.
  9. Ladle into mugs and let guests add their desired toppings.

Notes

Always cook on low to prevent scorching. Add alcohol at the very end to preserve its flavor. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat oat milk and coconut cream. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker hot chocolate, spiked hot chocolate, fall party drink, boozy hot chocolate, crockpot hot chocolate, hot chocolate for parties