Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

There’s nothing quite like a cozy evening with a warm mug of Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate in hand. I remember the first time I made this delightful drink; it was a chilly winter night, and the snow was gently falling outside. My family gathered around the fireplace, and the aroma of melting chocolate filled the air. Each sip was a comforting reminder of the holidays, and it instantly warmed our hearts. This recipe has since become a cherished tradition, perfect for Christmas gatherings or simply indulging in a sweet treat after a long day. You can customize it to fit your taste, making it as rich and chocolatey as you desire. The best part is, this Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate allows you to enjoy the moment instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special!

Main Ingredients for Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect cup of hot chocolate. The harmony between the milk, heavy cream, and chocolate chips results in a rich base, while the peppermint extract adds a festive twist that makes it truly special. Together, they create a comforting drink that’s ideal for warming up on cold winter nights.

• Milk: 6 ½ cups of milk forms the creamy base of the hot chocolate. I usually opt for 2% for a balanced flavor, but you can choose your favorite type.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup of heavy cream enhances the richness, providing a velvety finish to each sip.
• Chocolate Chips: 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups of chocolate chips are the stars of the show, melting beautifully into the mixture for a deep chocolate flavor.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder adds another layer of chocolate, deepening the taste.
• Warm Water: 1 tablespoon of warm water is used to create a smooth paste with the cocoa powder, ensuring it blends well into the hot chocolate.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a lovely depth of flavor, rounding out the sweetness.
• Peppermint Extract: ½ to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract gives the drink its festive kick, but be cautious, as it can be quite potent!
• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness of the chocolate, balancing the overall flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Top your hot chocolate with whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies: These make for a delightful garnish, adding a festive touch and a bit of crunch.
• Chocolate Shavings: Optional but highly recommended, chocolate shavings add extra richness and a beautiful presentation.

The Method for Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Making this Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is as simple as it is satisfying. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a rich drink. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat waiting for you!

1. In a small bowl, mix together the cocoa powder and warm water to create a paste. This will help to incorporate the cocoa smoothly into the hot chocolate.
2. Pour 6 ½ cups of milk, ½ cup of heavy cream, and the chocolate chips into the slow cooker. You want to start with the base before adding the cocoa.
3. Add the cocoa paste you prepared in the first step, ensuring everything is well combined. The cocoa will help thicken and enrich the hot chocolate.
4. Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for one hour. Stir the mixture a few times during this period with a whisk to ensure everything melts evenly.
5. As the chocolate melts, keep an eye on it. Once it’s fully melted and smooth, whisk everything together until fully combined.
6. Add in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Taste it and decide if you want to add more peppermint extract!
7. If you’re craving an extra sweet treat, feel free to add an additional ¼ cup of chocolate chips and stir until they melt completely into the mix.
8. Once everything is mixed and heated through, turn the slow cooker to the warm setting or serve immediately. If you keep it on warm, whisk it occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.
9. Serve your Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate in mugs topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies, and some chocolate shavings for the ultimate experience.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips. These will help you navigate through the preparation and achieve a delicious drink every time.

• Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge in a sealed container. They can be reheated on the stove or in a microwave.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this hot chocolate as it may change the texture once thawed.
• Pairing: This hot chocolate pairs beautifully with cookies, brownies, or even a slice of chocolate cake for an indulgent treat.
• Make it dairy-free: You can make a dairy-free version by using non-dairy milk and chocolate alternatives. Coconut or almond milk works well.
• Adjust sweetness: Keep in mind that the chocolate chips will affect the sweetness. Start with less and adjust as needed.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

• Occasions: This Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy movie nights, or any winter occasion where a warm drink is welcome.
• Garnishing: Don’t forget to garnish with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings for that extra special touch!
• Serving size: This recipe yields about 7 cups, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends during festive get-togethers.
• Temperature: Serve hot, but you can let it cool slightly for those who prefer a warm drink rather than scorching hot.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy this hot chocolate alongside your favorite winter desserts or pastries, making it a versatile drink for any holiday dessert table.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, this Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the perfect blend of creamy richness and festive peppermint. It brings warmth and joy to any winter gathering, making it a must-try for the holiday season. If you haven’t made it yet, I encourage you to give it a go — cozy up with a big mug of this delightful drink and cherish the moments with your loved ones!

Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate

The ultimate comfort food for winter nights! This Slow Cooker Peppermint Hot Chocolate is rich, creamy, and perfect for warming up on chilly evenings. Indulge in this easy weeknight treat that will have everyone begging for seconds. Make it tonight and bring the holiday spirit into your home!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 7 cups

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, mix together the cocoa powder and warm water to make a paste.
2. Add the milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, and cocoa paste to the slow cooker, set to low for one hour.
3. Stir a few times with a whisk during cooking.
4. When chocolate is melted, whisk until fully combined and smooth. Add the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Taste and add more peppermint extract if needed.
5. If you want a sweeter, more chocolatey hot chocolate, add ¼ cup more chocolate chips and stir until fully melted.
6. Serve with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings to garnish.
7. Hot cocoa can be kept on the warm setting for several hours, but will need to be whisked a few times as it forms a skin on top.

Notes

• Tip 1: 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.
• Tip 2: For the chocolate chips, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
• Tip 3: If the hot chocolate is too sweet just add a little more milk.
• Tip 4: Easily make dairy free by using non-dairy milk and dairy free chocolate chips. My mom used vanilla almond milk and loved it.

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Meet Juliet Sterling

Creating rich, complex flavors is my obsession, though I am just as passionate about capturing them through the lens. I develop recipes that taste like they simmered all day but are actually achievable for any home cook. I cooked and styled this dish to ensure the flavors are balanced and the presentation inspires you.