Description
This slow cooker hot chocolate recipe offers a rich, creamy, and effortlessly made treat perfect for cozy gatherings. Utilizing a slow cooker, it combines cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract with hot water to create a smooth and comforting beverage that can stay warm for hours, ideal for serving guests or enjoying throughout a chilly day.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 8 cups hot water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Pour 8 cups of hot water into a large 7-quart slow cooker to provide the liquid base for the hot chocolate.
- Add Ingredients: Whisk in 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set on low heat. Allow the mixture to heat until it is hot and ready to serve, which usually takes about 2 hours.
- Keep Warm: Once the hot chocolate is hot, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting to maintain the temperature without burning the drink.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into individual mugs and top with your favorite toppings such as marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for an indulgent touch.
Notes
- Ensure to whisk the mixture thoroughly at the start to avoid lumps from the cocoa powder.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetened condensed milk based on preference.
- Optional toppings include marshmallows, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- The recipe keeps well on the warm setting but avoid leaving it for more than a few hours to prevent burning or thickening too much.
- Use a 7-quart slow cooker to ensure there is enough room for the liquid and easy stirring.
