This Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is simple to make and tastes amazing. With just five easy ingredients and a few hours in the slow cooker, you can serve a creamy, homemade hot chocolate that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Winter Drink
Hot chocolate is a winter essential. I make a batch almost every night in December — sometimes a simple powdered mix while watching a Christmas movie, and other times a richer homemade version when I want something extra special.
When friends or family come over, after a snow day, or during a movie night, this Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is my go-to. It’s straightforward to prepare, keeps warm for serving a crowd, and delivers a rich, creamy flavor that feels indulgent without fuss.
How to make Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
This recipe is made entirely in the slow cooker. Add the ingredients, let it cook gently for a few hours, stir, and serve. It’s ideal for entertaining because you can set it and forget it until it’s time to serve.
Ingredient Notes
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and a velvety body to the drink.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Builds richness and a creamy mouthfeel.
- Milk: Use 2% or your preferred milk for a balance of creaminess and lightness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: Melt into the base for a smooth chocolate flavor. Semi-sweet chips can be used if you prefer less sweetness.
Directions
Step one: Gather your ingredients and add them all to the slow cooker. Mix thoroughly so the chocolate and condensed milk start to incorporate with the milk and cream.
Step two: Cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even melting.
- Tip: If you prefer, this can also be made on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven over low heat; just watch and stir frequently so it doesn’t scorch.
Step three: Stir well before serving. Ladle into mugs and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings.
Serving tip
This hot chocolate will be very hot straight from the slow cooker. For parties, reduce the slow cooker to the warm setting or turn it off a few minutes before serving to avoid scalding guests. A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe; smaller cookers may be too small for the full batch.
Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate — Recipe Summary
Prep time: 5 minutes • Cook time: 3–4 hours on low • Servings: About 12 cups (serves roughly 12, depending on serving size)
Ingredients
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 cups milk (2% recommended)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet if preferred)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Mix well to combine the chocolate chips, condensed milk, cream, milk, and vanilla.
- Cook on low for 3–4 hours, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir occasionally if you can.
- Stir well before serving. Serve in mugs topped with marshmallows or whipped cream. If serving for a crowd, lower to warm or turn the slow cooker off a few minutes before serving to ensure a safe serving temperature.
Notes
Serving tip: This recipe will be very hot when served directly from the slow cooker. Reduce to warm or turn off a few minutes before serving at a party. Use a 6-quart slow cooker or larger for best results.
Nutrition (approx.)
Serving size: 1 cup • Calories: 425 kcal • Carbohydrates: 46 g • Protein: 9 g • Fat: 22 g
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment or share a photo of your batch — it’s always a treat to see variations and serving ideas. Enjoy a warm mug and savor the simple pleasure of homemade hot chocolate.