Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

There’s something inherently cozy about the aroma of warm chocolate swirling through the air, especially during the chilly winter months. That’s why I find myself making Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate on repeat. Picture this: it’s a snowy evening, and you’ve just come inside after a fun day of building snowmen or sledding down the hill. Everyone is a bit rosy-cheeked and chilled to the bone, and all you want is a cup of something rich and decadent to warm you from the inside out. This recipe not only delivers that comforting heat but also adds a delightful twist with a hint of peppermint.

What I love most about it is that you can set it and forget it! Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do its magic while you unwind. The combination of creamy milk, rich chocolate, and a touch of peppermint creates a drink that feels special. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it solo while curled up with a good book, this drink always hits the spot.

And let’s not forget the toppings! Whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings make this Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate not just a treat for your taste buds but a feast for your eyes as well. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of childhood memories, family gatherings, and the simple joy of sipping something homemade. So grab your favorite mug, and let’s whip up a batch that will keep you warm all winter long!

What’s In This Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

The ingredients for Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate come together to create a rich, velvety drink that’s perfect for warming up during cold days. The main players are the creamy milk and heavy cream, which provide a luxurious base. Chocolate chips offer intense chocolate flavor, while the peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist that screams holiday cheer.

• Milk: 6 ½ cups of milk create the creamy base for your hot chocolate, ensuring a rich mouthfeel. I usually prefer using 2% milk for a perfect balance of creaminess and lightness.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup of heavy cream adds an extra layer of richness, making each sip indulgent. It’s the secret to achieving that café-style hot chocolate at home.
• Chocolate Chips: You can use 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups of chocolate chips for a sweeter, richer drink. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your sweetness preference. The melted chocolate is what makes this drink irresistible.
• Cocoa Powder: A tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor, bringing a delightful complexity to the drink.
• Warm Water: Mixing a tablespoon of warm water with cocoa powder helps to create a smooth paste, ensuring there are no clumps in your hot chocolate.
• Peppermint Extract: Just ½ to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract provides a refreshing finish. Adjust based on your preference, but start small, as it can be potent.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors, balancing sweetness and making the chocolate taste even richer.
• Whipped Cream: For serving, whipped cream adds a light, fluffy texture and sweetness.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies: These not only look festive but also offer a crunchy texture and extra peppermint flavor when sprinkled on top.
• Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings adds a touch of elegance and enhances the rich chocolate experience.

Step by Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Making Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is straightforward and fun. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious drink to enjoy. Let’s dive into the details!

1. In a small bowl, mix together a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with a tablespoon of warm water. This will create a smooth paste. Ensure there are no lumps as you mix.

2. Add 6 ½ cups of milk to the slow cooker. I suggest using 2% for the perfect creaminess without being too heavy.

3. Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream to enrich the mixture. This is what will make your hot chocolate feel luxurious!

4. Next, toss in 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups of chocolate chips. If you’re unsure, start with the smaller amount and taste as it cooks to adjust sweetness.

5. Stir in the cocoa paste you made earlier. This ensures the chocolate flavor is well incorporated.

6. Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for one hour. Stir occasionally with a whisk. You’ll notice the chocolate chips melting beautifully.

7. Once the mixture is melted and smooth, whisk it until fully combined. Then add ½ to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and a pinch of salt. Taste it and adjust the peppermint if desired.

8. If you want a sweeter treat, consider adding another ¼ cup of chocolate chips at this stage, stirring until they melt completely.

9. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings for that festive touch. Enjoy!

10. Keep in mind that the hot cocoa can be kept on the warm setting for several hours. Just remember to whisk it a few times to keep it smooth and prevent a skin from forming.

Helpful Notes about Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

This recipe is straightforward, but here are some helpful notes to make it even better:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze this hot chocolate base. Just thaw and reheat before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly.
• Serving Size: This recipe yields about seven cups, perfect for sharing with friends or family during winter get-togethers.
• Variations: Consider adding flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut for a unique twist, or use different types of chocolate for varied flavors.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute non-dairy milk and dairy-free chocolate chips to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Garnish Options: Get creative with toppings! Try adding crushed cookies or a dash of cinnamon for an added flavor boost.

Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Serving Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate can be an enjoyable experience with a bit of thought into presentation. Here are some ideas for making it special:

• Cozy Family Nights: Serve this hot chocolate in festive mugs during family movie nights. It pairs perfectly with popcorn or cookies.
• Holiday Gatherings: Set up a hot chocolate bar with toppings like whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings. Guests can customize their drinks!
• Winter Parties: This drink is a hit at holiday parties. Serve it in a large slow cooker, allowing guests to help themselves.
• After-Ski Delight: If you’ve been out skiing or snowboarding, this hot chocolate is a fantastic way to warm up afterward. Serve with hearty snacks.
• Outdoor Gatherings: Consider bringing a thermos of this hot chocolate to outdoor winter events, like ice skating or winter festivals, for a warm treat on the go.
• Serve Warm: It’s best enjoyed warm, so make sure to keep it on a low setting in the slow cooker if serving over time.
• Pair with Desserts: This hot chocolate can be paired with various desserts, like brownies, cookies, or even a slice of chocolate cake, for a truly indulgent experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a delightful treat that captures the essence of winter and holiday cheer. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an irresistible choice for cold nights. I encourage you to give this recipe a try the next time you’re in need of a warm, comforting drink. You won’t regret it, and your loved ones will surely appreciate the warmth it brings to gatherings!

Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

The ultimate hot chocolate for chilly winter evenings! This Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is creamy, rich, and topped with festive garnishes. Perfect for cozy nights in or holiday gatherings, you'll definitely want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 7 cups

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 6 ½ cups Milk I used 2%
• ½ cup Heavy Cream or just use more milk
• 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups Chocolate Chips start with less, add more for richer and sweeter hot chocolate
• 1 tablespoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1 tablespoon Warm Water
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• ½ to 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract I used ¾ teaspoon. Start with less, add more to taste. Peppermint extract can be very strong!
• a pinch Salt
• Whipped Cream
• Crushed Peppermint Candies
• Chocolate Shavings

Instructions

 

• In a small bowl, mix together a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with a tablespoon of warm water. This will create a smooth paste. Ensure there are no lumps as you mix.
• Add 6 ½ cups of milk to the slow cooker. I suggest using 2% for the perfect creaminess without being too heavy.
• Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream to enrich the mixture. This is what will make your hot chocolate feel luxurious!
• Next, toss in 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups of chocolate chips. If you’re unsure, start with the smaller amount and taste as it cooks to adjust sweetness.
• Stir in the cocoa paste you made earlier. This ensures the chocolate flavor is well incorporated.
• Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for one hour. Stir occasionally with a whisk. You’ll notice the chocolate chips melting beautifully.
• Once the mixture is melted and smooth, whisk it until fully combined. Then add ½ to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and a pinch of salt. Taste it and adjust the peppermint if desired.
• If you want a sweeter treat, consider adding another ¼ cup of chocolate chips at this stage, stirring until they melt completely.
• When you’re ready to serve, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings for that festive touch. Enjoy!
• Keep in mind that the hot cocoa can be kept on the warm setting for several hours. Just remember to whisk it a few times to keep it smooth and prevent a skin from forming.

Notes

It is easy to go overboard, so start with less and add more to taste. I would start with ½ teaspoon and then add another ¼ teaspoon if you feel it needs it. For the chocolate chips, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. If the hot chocolate is too sweet just add a little more milk. Easily make dairy free by using non-dairy milk and dairy free chocolate chips. My mom used vanilla almond milk and loved it.

Keyword Easy Hot Chocolate Recipe, Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate, Winter Drinks

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.