Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something almost magical about the first sip of homemade crockpot hot chocolate, the kind that feels like wrapping your hands around a blanket in a mug. Rich, creamy, and impossibly smooth, this recipe was made for those cold days when the world outside slows down and comfort takes center stage.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, taking a thermos to a winter parade, or simply watching snow fall through the window, this crockpot version lets you enjoy that café-level chocolate bliss with almost zero effort. No condensed milk, no complicated steps, just pure, velvety goodness made from real chocolate and cream.

Ingredients for Crockpot Hot Chocolate

You only need a few basic pantry staples to make a rich, crowd-pleasing batch.

6 cups whole milk or 3 cups whole milk + 3 cups half and half
2 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk
2 cups heavy cream
3 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or a blend)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional: mini & large marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed peppermint, caramel drizzle

Pro Tip: For deeper flavor, mix milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you love classic creamy hot chocolate, go all milk chocolate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients

Pour all the milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, and vanilla into a 6-quart crockpot. Stir well.

2. Slow Cook Until Creamy

Set on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally (especially during the first hour) to help the chocolate melt evenly and prevent scorching.

3. Finish and Serve

About 30 minutes before serving, toss in a handful of mini and large marshmallows so they melt slightly. Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream, crushed candy cane, or chocolate shavings, and serve hot.

Stovetop Alternative

Don’t have a crockpot? No problem!
Simply combine all ingredients in a large saucepan over low heat, whisking often until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Keep covered and on warm until ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Creamy Texture

Stir often in the first hour — melted chocolate can settle and burn.
For a lighter texture, replace 1 cup of heavy cream with whole milk.
For a richer, café-style version, use more cream and less milk.
Avoid overheating: Once fully melted, switch the crockpot to Warm to prevent separation.
Serve creatively: Add toppings like peppermint sticks, toffee bits, or caramel drizzle to make a hot chocolate bar everyone will love.

Flavor Variations & Creative Add-Ins

Sometimes a simple twist makes all the difference.

Peppermint Mocha: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract + 1 shot espresso.
Salted Caramel Dream: Stir in 3 tablespoons caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt.
Mexican Hot Chocolate: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a tiny pinch of cayenne.
Dark Chocolate Espresso: Use dark chocolate chips and replace 1 cup milk with brewed coffee.
Adults-Only Upgrade: Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or peppermint schnapps before serving.

These small tweaks make this recipe endlessly customizable — perfect for parties or cozy nights in.

Make-Ahead, Serving & Storage Tips

Keep Warm: After heating through, switch your slow cooker to Warm for up to 4 hours.
To Reheat: Pour leftovers into a saucepan, heat on low, whisking to restore creaminess.
To Store: Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
To Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture the night before (without chocolate), refrigerate, then add chocolate and cook as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?

You can, but it won’t be as creamy or rich. Real chocolate melts into the milk and cream, giving this recipe its signature smooth texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Use almond or oat milk and replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. Choose vegan chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.

Can I double or halve this recipe?

Absolutely. Just maintain the same ratios — this recipe is very forgiving.

Can I make it on the stovetop?

Yes, see the stovetop method above. The texture stays just as rich and indulgent.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 287
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 62mg
Calcium: 131mg
Iron: 1mg

Warm Up Your Winter

Every cup of this easy crockpot hot chocolate feels like a small celebration, of family, of slowing down, of cozy moments that don’t need much more than a good blanket and a warm mug.

Whether it’s part of your Christmas morning tradition, a ski-day reward, or just a reason to pause on a cold afternoon, this recipe is meant to be shared. Try it once, and it’ll quietly work its way into your yearly ritual, the kind that smells like vanilla, feels like home, and tastes like winter should.

If you make it, drop a comment below, tell me your favorite topping or twist. Because honestly, there’s no wrong way to make this one yours.