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Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Easy Holiday Drink

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This Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a rich, creamy, and easy slow cooker drink perfect for holiday gatherings. Simply dump everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic for a silky, decadent treat that tastes like a melted candy cane in a mug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (for garnish)
  • Mini marshmallows (for serving, optional)
  • Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
  • Chocolate shavings (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your crockpot: Spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray or lightly coat with butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to prevent lumps.
  3. Add liquids: Pour whole milk and heavy cream into the crockpot. Add the dry ingredient mixture and whisk until smooth.
  4. Add chocolate chips: Pour in semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir once more.
  5. Cook on low: Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours. After about 90 minutes, whisk to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
  6. Add flavorings: After 2 hours, stir in vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Taste and adjust if needed.
  7. Keep warm: Switch crockpot to WARM setting. Hot chocolate will stay drinkable for 3-4 hours. If it thickens, stir in a splash of milk.
  8. Prepare garnishes: Crush candy canes in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin or heavy pan.
  9. Serve: Ladle hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings. Add a whole candy cane for stirring if desired.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use full-fat oat milk and coconut cream. For a less sweet version, reduce sugar to 1/2 cup and use dark chocolate chips. Peppermint extract is potent—start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste. Keep on warm setting after cooking to prevent scorching. To thicken, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold milk and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot hot chocolate, peppermint hot chocolate, slow cooker hot chocolate, holiday drink, Christmas drink, easy hot chocolate

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/crockpot-peppermint-hot-chocolate-easy-holiday-drink/