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Light Peppermint Mocha Crockpot Hot Chocolate

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This Light Peppermint Mocha Crockpot Hot Chocolate is a rich, chocolatey, minty, and slightly caffeinated holiday drink that’s easy to make and healthier than traditional versions. Made with unsweetened almond milk, cocoa, dark chocolate, and a hint of coffee, it’s perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (or 2 shots espresso)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey, add more to taste)
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao), finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (start with less and add more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Light whipped cream (for serving, optional)
  • Crushed candy canes (for serving, optional)
  • Chocolate shavings (for serving, optional)
  • Extra peppermint sticks (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder and salt to prevent lumps.
  2. Pour the almond milk and brewed coffee into a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Add the cocoa powder and salt mixture to the slow cooker. Whisk vigorously until no dry patches remain.
  4. Add the maple syrup and finely chopped dark chocolate. Do not stir; let the chocolate sit on top.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is steaming hot. Stir to incorporate the melted chocolate.
  6. Stir in the peppermint extract. Start with 1/2 teaspoon, taste, and add more if desired.
  7. Whisk until smooth. If lumps remain, pour through a fine-mesh strainer.
  8. Switch the slow cooker to the ‘warm’ setting to keep the hot chocolate at serving temperature.
  9. Ladle into mugs and garnish with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, chocolate shavings, and a peppermint stick if desired.

Notes

For a caffeine-free version, omit the coffee and increase almond milk by 1 cup. The peppermint flavor intensifies as it sits, so start with less extract. Use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for best results. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated on low in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint mocha, crockpot hot chocolate, slow cooker hot chocolate, light hot chocolate, holiday drink, healthy hot chocolate, dairy-free hot chocolate, vegan hot chocolate

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