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Creamy Slow Cooker Chocolate

Featured in Sweet Treat Sensations.

Say goodbye to basic hot cocoa—this is creamy, thick, slow-cooked hot chocolate with real dark cocoa and rich whole milk. Optional espresso powder takes it to the next level while the slow cook ensures the perfect warmth for sipping.

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Ranah
Updated on Sat, 12 Apr 2025 22:03:36 GMT
A mug filled with creamy hot chocolate, topped with marshmallows and cocoa dusting. Pin it
A mug filled with creamy hot chocolate, topped with marshmallows and cocoa dusting. | chefemmakitchen.com

I whipped up this slow cooker hot chocolate during a blizzard when I wanted something better than instant packets. Dark chocolate mixed with whole milk and cream turns into something truly wonderful. A tiny bit of espresso powder boosts the chocolate taste without making it coffee-flavored. This has become what I make whenever pals drop by or cold weather strikes.

Dreamy Hot Chocolate

The beauty of this drink is how the crock pot slowly melts everything into silky perfection. Slow warming pulls out all the chocolate's richness, making the creamiest cocoa you'll ever drink. I'm a fan of how it stays hot for hours, which works great for family gatherings or lazy Sundays when everybody gets up at their own pace.

What You'll Need

  • Chocolate: Don't skimp here, quality dark chocolate really matters
  • Cocoa Powder: Gives an extra chocolate punch
  • Milk: Whole milk works best as your foundation
  • Half and Half: Adds that lovely velvety texture
  • Sugar: Start small and taste until it's right for you
  • Vanilla: Real extract adds a cozy flavor note
  • Espresso Powder: My hidden trick for enhanced chocolate taste
A close-up of a cup filled with rich chocolate drink topped with marshmallows and chocolate shavings. Pin it
A close-up of a cup filled with rich chocolate drink topped with marshmallows and chocolate shavings. | chefemmakitchen.com

Brewing Chocolate Bliss

Throw It Together
All ingredients go straight into the slow cooker where they'll transform
Patient Cooking
Give it time to blend properly and stir occasionally so everything mixes well
Serving Time
Pour into cups and watch smiles appear as the wonderful smell spreads

Twist It Around

I sometimes add a dollop of Nutella or a dash of Baileys when it's just adults. The coffee fans in my house love adding freshly brewed espresso for a tasty mocha version. During Christmas time, we mix in smashed candy canes or some orange peel for a festive touch.

Fancy Touches

Setting up a topping station makes drinking hot chocolate way more fun. I put out big swirls of whipped cream, tiny marshmallows, broken candy canes and chocolate bits. When I'm throwing a nice party, I run mug edges through melted chocolate then into crushed mints, which looks fancy and tastes even better.

Keeping Extras

If we somehow don't finish it all, the leftover drink stores well in the fridge. Just warm it up slowly on the stove and it's good as new. I often prep a batch a day early when visitors are coming, which gives me one less thing to worry about when the house gets crowded.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why can't I use chocolate chips?

Chocolate chips are made with stabilizers that change how they melt and feel. Chopped chocolate bars melt smoother and make a creamier drink.

→ Is whole milk really necessary?

Yes, whole milk gives the perfect richness. Lighter milk won't give you that creamy texture you're looking for.

→ Why add espresso powder?

Espresso powder brings out the chocolate flavor without any coffee taste. It's not required, but it adds a lot of depth that's worth it.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Sure, leftovers can go in the fridge for up to four days. Heat them up gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring regularly to keep it smooth.

→ How do I prevent a skin from forming?

Keep it covered while cooking. If storing for later, press plastic wrap right onto the surface before chilling.

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate

Decadent slow cooker hot chocolate made with real cocoa, creamy whole milk, and a touch of espresso powder to deepen the flavor.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
120 Minutes
Total Time
125 Minutes
By: emma

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (6)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 cup half-and-half.
02 3 cups whole milk.
03 6 ounces dark chocolate, cut into small pieces.
04 3 tablespoons white sugar.
05 1 tablespoon cocoa powder.
06 2 teaspoons vanilla flavoring.
07 1 teaspoon instant espresso (optional).
08 A tiny pinch of kosher salt.
09 Mini marshmallows.
10 Fluffy whipped cream.
11 Chocolate chips.
12 Caramel drizzle.

Instructions

Step 01

In a slow cooker (3-quart size), stir together milk, half-and-half, broken chocolate pieces, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, espresso powder (if using), and a bit of salt.

Step 02

Use a whisk to mix everything for about 1-2 minutes, making sure no cocoa clumps are left.

Step 03

Cook on low for 2-3 hours or set to high for 45-60 minutes, whisking every 45 minutes to keep things smooth.

Step 04

When the mixture is hot and the chocolate's melted, switch to the warm or low setting. Spoon into mugs and top with your favorite goodies.

Notes

  1. Stick with whole milk for the best texture.
  2. Always use bar chocolate that you've chopped, not pre-made chips.
  3. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days.
  4. If reheating, give it a stir before you serve.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker (3-quart size).
  • A whisk.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (milk and half-and-half).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
  • Protein: 8 g