Slow-Cooked Comfort: Mastering Hot Chocolate In The Crock-Pot

Making hot chocolate in a crock pot is a great way to serve a large batch of the drink at a gathering or party. It's easy to make, can be customised to your tastes, and will stay warm throughout the event.

Choosing the right chocolate

Type of Chocolate

You can use either chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars for your crockpot hot chocolate. Chocolate chips are a convenient option as they are already in small pieces and melt easily. If you opt for chocolate bars, choose a high-quality brand and chop the chocolate into small, even pieces to ensure smooth melting. Both milk chocolate and dark chocolate can be used, depending on your preference for sweetness and intensity. Dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content and will result in a richer, more intense flavour. If you prefer a milder taste, milk chocolate is a better option. White chocolate can also be used for a sweeter, creamier drink.

Quality of Chocolate

When selecting chocolate for your hot chocolate, it is important to choose a high-quality product. Look for chocolate with a high cocoa content and minimal additives or preservatives. Avoid chocolate chips that contain stabilizers, as these can affect the melting process and impact the smoothness of your hot chocolate. Read the ingredient list to ensure you are choosing a product with pure, natural ingredients.

Amount of Chocolate

The amount of chocolate you use will depend on your desired level of chocolatiness. As a general guideline, a good starting point is to use equal parts chocolate and liquid (milk and cream). However, if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavour, you can increase the amount of chocolate relative to the liquid. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your taste preferences.

Combining Chocolates

You don't have to stick to just one type of chocolate. Combining different chocolates can add depth and complexity to your hot chocolate. For example, you could use a mix of milk and dark chocolate or even incorporate white chocolate for a unique flavour profile. Just be mindful of the overall sweetness and adjust the amount of sugar in your recipe accordingly.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Options

If you are making dairy-free or vegan hot chocolate, there are plenty of chocolate options available. Look for dairy-free or vegan chocolate chips, or opt for a chocolate bar made with plant-based ingredients. Popular dairy-free milk alternatives include almond milk, coconut milk, and cashew milk, all of which pair well with chocolate.

Adding milk, cream, or a non-dairy alternative

The type of milk you use in your crockpot hot chocolate will depend on the desired consistency and your dietary requirements.

Whole Milk

For the richest, creamiest hot chocolate, opt for whole milk. This will give your drink a luxurious texture and taste.

2% Milk

Technically, 2% milk can be used, but it won't result in the same creamy consistency as whole milk.

Non-Dairy Milk

If you're dairy-free or vegan, you can still enjoy crockpot hot chocolate! Swap the dairy milk for almond, cashew, or coconut milk. Full-fat coconut milk will add a creamy texture, while almond milk is a delicious alternative.

Heavy Cream

For an extra indulgent treat, add some heavy cream to your hot chocolate. This will make it richer and creamier.

Half-and-Half

If you don't want to use heavy cream, half-and-half is an acceptable substitute. It will add a touch of luxury to your drink without being too overpowering.

Coconut Cream

For a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, use canned coconut cream. This will add a similar richness to your hot chocolate without the dairy.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

Sweetened condensed milk will add a burst of sweetness to your hot chocolate. However, it is very sweet, so you may want to omit any additional sugar from your recipe.

Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk

If you're making a dairy-free or vegan hot chocolate, you can find dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternatives or even make your own!

Chocolate Milk

For a super simple crockpot hot chocolate, you can use chocolate milk! Simply heat it in the crockpot and add your desired toppings.

Top Tips

• When making dairy-free hot chocolate, ensure you use dairy-free/vegan chocolate chips.
• If you're watching your fat intake, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half and use low-fat milk or a dairy alternative.
• If you're making hot chocolate for a large group, a crockpot is a great way to keep your drink warm without burning it.
• You can also reheat any leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Flavouring and sweetening your hot chocolate

There are many ways to flavour and sweeten your hot chocolate, whether you're making it on the stove, in the microwave, or in a crockpot. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Alcohol

Adding a splash of alcohol can turn your hot chocolate into an adult beverage. Try Baileys Irish Cream, peppermint schnapps, Kahlua, Frangelico hazelnut liqueur, or peanut butter whiskey.

Coffee

Mixing hot chocolate and coffee creates a drink called a café mocha. Add a shot of espresso or a pour of strong brewed coffee to your cup, then top it up with hot chocolate.

Nutella

Stirring in a spoonful of Nutella will give your hot chocolate an extra rich and tasty flavour.

Peppermint

For a minty twist, try adding a peppermint stick or candy cane as a stirrer. As it melts, it will add a burst of refreshing mint flavour to your hot chocolate. Alternatively, add some mint extract or crushed peppermint to your drink.

Caramel

Stir in a spoonful of caramel sauce and a pinch of salt to your hot chocolate for a salted caramel flavour. Alternatively, drizzle some caramel sauce over your marshmallows or whipped cream as a finishing touch.

Instant coffee granules

Add a spoonful of instant coffee granules to your hot chocolate for an afternoon caffeine boost.

Cinnamon

Finish your hot chocolate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.

Honey

Instead of using sugar to sweeten your hot chocolate, try using honey instead. It will give your drink a unique flavour and a hint of sweetness.

Sweetened condensed milk

If you like your hot chocolate extra sweet, try using sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk. Just be careful, as it is very sweet. You may need to omit other sweeteners to compensate.

Toppings

In addition to these flavouring ideas, you can also get creative with your toppings. Here are some suggestions:

• Marshmallows (mini, regular, or jumbo-sized)
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, dark, or white)
• Caramel sauce
• Crushed peppermint
• Shaved chocolate
• Nutella
• Ice cream topping (e.g. fudge sauce, butterscotch sauce, or strawberry topping)
• Cinnamon sugar
• Cherry

Heating and serving your drink

Once you've prepared your hot chocolate mixture, it's time to heat it up and serve! Here are some tips to ensure your drink is warm, delicious, and perfect for any occasion:

Heating Your Hot Chocolate:

• For a crockpot or slow cooker, cover and cook your mixture on low heat for about 2-3 hours or on high for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Whisk occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even melting.
• If using a stovetop, add your ingredients to a large pot and heat over medium heat. Avoid boiling as the milk may separate; instead, heat gently until you see small bubbles around the edges.
• For the microwave, combine ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl, leaving room at the top. Heat in 2-minute intervals, stirring well between each interval, until hot.
• To keep your hot chocolate warm, use the "warm" setting on your crockpot or slow cooker. It can be kept warm for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.

Serving Your Hot Chocolate:

• Use a ladle to serve your hot chocolate into mugs or heat-proof cups.
• If serving a large group, set out the mugs and a ladle, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Prepare a variety of toppings for guests to add to their hot chocolate. Popular options include marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, cinnamon, and caramel sauce.
• For a festive touch, dip the rims of your mugs in melted chocolate and roll them in chopped nuts, crushed peppermint, or sprinkles.
• For adult gatherings, offer alcoholic additives such as Baileys Irish Cream, peppermint schnapps, Kahlua, or Frangelico hazelnut liqueur.
• To transport your hot chocolate to a party, use a large, insulated container. Give it a good shake before serving to ensure everything is mixed.

Topping your hot chocolate

Now that you've made your hot chocolate in the crockpot, it's time to top it off! Here are some ideas for delicious toppings and add-ins to take your hot chocolate to the next level:

Classic toppings

• Marshmallows: Go for mini, regular, or jumbo-sized marshmallows, or get creative with snowflake or heart-shaped marshmallows.
• Whipped cream: For an extra decadent treat, add a generous dollop of whipped cream. You can even make your own homemade whipped cream for an extra special touch.
• Chocolate chips: Sprinkle in some milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey punch.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top for a sweet and salty contrast.

Creative toppings

• Crushed peppermint: Add a minty and festive twist with some crushed peppermint candy.
• Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a warm spice to your drink. You could also add a cinnamon stick to stir your hot chocolate for even more flavour.
• Sprinkles: Rainbow or chocolate sprinkles will make your hot chocolate look and taste even more fun.
• Sea salt: A pinch of coarse sea salt enhances the sweetness of the hot chocolate, especially when paired with caramel sauce.
• Cookies: Dip cookies like wafer cookies, chocolate chip cookies, or Oreos into your hot chocolate for a tasty treat.
• Candy canes: Melt a candy cane into your hot chocolate for a peppermint twist, or crush some candy canes and sprinkle them on top.
• Chocolate truffles: Stir in a milk chocolate truffle for a creamy, indulgent treat.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some white chocolate shavings on top for a beautiful and delicious garnish.
• Nuts: Chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds can add a crunchy texture and a boost of flavour.
• Ice cream: Scoop some vanilla or peppermint ice cream into your hot chocolate for an extra indulgent, creamy treat.

Frequently asked questions