This warm and creamy hot chocolate is perfect for Christmas Eve gatherings. Made with milk, chocolate, and a hint of vanilla, it’s a cozy treat that fills your home with festive cheer.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself stealing a cup before the guests arrive! I love topping mine with marshmallows and whipped cream—nothing says holiday like a little extra sweetness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk makes the hot chocolate rich and creamy. If you prefer a lighter option, try 2% milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, noting that it may slightly change the flavor and texture.
Heavy Cream: This adds luxury to the drink. You can replace it with half-and-half or for a lighter version, just use more milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream is a rich substitute!
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These are the star for that sweet, chocolaty flavor. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer taste, or if you’re in a pinch, unsweetened chocolate can be sweetened to your taste.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This gives depth to the chocolate flavor. If you want a less intense taste, you can cut it down to 1/3 cup or use a Dutch-process cocoa powder for a slightly different flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Adjust this based on your sweet tooth! You can swap it for brown sugar for added depth, or use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
How Can I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate is Creamy and Smooth?
Perfecting the texture of hot chocolate is easy! Here are the steps to ensure creamy results:
- Start by mixing all the ingredients in the crockpot before turning it on. This helps everything blend evenly.
- Cook on low and stir every 30 minutes. This not only prevents burning but ensures the chocolate melts slowly without clumping.
- Adding the vanilla extract at the end adds a lovely aroma without cooking off its flavor!
- Make sure to ladle into mugs while hot so the chocolate stays smooth and inviting.
By giving attention to these details, you’ll achieve a wonderfully creamy hot chocolate every time!
Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Whipped cream, optional for serving
- Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder, optional for garnish
Time Needed:
This cozy hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it cook in the crockpot for 2 to 3 hours. It’s the perfect treat to have bubbling away while you enjoy your Christmas Eve festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Take your large crockpot and pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Add in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. This mixture is where the magic happens, so make sure everything is in there!
2. Stir and Combine:
With a whisk or a large spoon, stir everything together until well mixed. You want all those ingredients to blend nicely for a smooth hot chocolate!
3. Cook on Low:
Now, cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Make sure to stir the hot chocolate every 30 minutes. This will help the chocolate melt completely and prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
4. Add Vanilla:
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the vanilla extract and give it a good stir. This will enhance the flavor and aroma of your hot chocolate, making it even more delightful!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the hot chocolate is ready, ladle it into mugs. Don’t be shy with the mini marshmallows—heaping spoonfuls make it extra special! If you like, add a dollop of whipped cream on top and sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or cocoa powder for that festive touch.
6. Cozy Up!
Now it’s time to relax and enjoy your warm cup of Christmas cheer. Sip, savor, and share this delightful hot chocolate with your loved ones. Merry Christmas!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but keep in mind that the hot chocolate may not be as rich and creamy. If you want to maintain creaminess, consider adding a bit more heavy cream or using whole milk along with a lower-fat milk for a balanced approach!
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hot chocolate and keep it warm in the crockpot for a few hours. If you make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove, stirring frequently to keep it smooth.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until it’s nice and hot again!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different chocolates—milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even flavored chocolate can give your hot chocolate a unique twist. Just adjust the sugar according to your sweetness preference!
