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Easy Crockpot Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream

crockpot hot chocolate with peppermint whipped cream - featured image

This rich and creamy crockpot hot chocolate is the ultimate hands-off treat, made with simple ingredients and topped with a refreshing peppermint whipped cream. Perfect for cozy family movie nights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for whipped cream)
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Optional: crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish

Instructions

  1. Spray the inside of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease with butter.
  2. Pour the 6 cups whole milk and 2 cups heavy cream into the crockpot and whisk together.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  4. Add the cocoa mixture to the milk and cream in the crockpot. Whisk until fully dissolved.
  5. Add the 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours. Stir after 1 hour to help chocolate chips melt evenly.
  7. Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolate level as desired. Add more sugar or chocolate chips if needed.
  8. Switch the crockpot to the WARM setting to keep the hot chocolate ready for serving.
  9. About 10 minutes before serving, make the peppermint whipped cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, combine 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon peppermint extract. Beat with a hand mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
  10. Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each mug with a dollop of peppermint whipped cream and garnish with crushed candy canes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t rush the slow cooker; low and slow is key for creamy texture. Whisk occasionally during the first hour. Make the whipped cream fresh just before serving. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk and coconut cream. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

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