Crockpot Hot Chocolate with Custom Toppings for the Ultimate Treat Bar

Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Souhail

I still remember the first time I made crockpot hot chocolate for a holiday movie night with friends. The smell alone was enough to make everyone nostalgic — that dreamy blend of melted chocolate, creamy milk, and a touch of vanilla drifting through the kitchen. It was like being wrapped in a cashmere blanket while snow gently fell outside (yes, it was that good).

This recipe is my go-to for chilly weekends, festive gatherings, or those days when I just want something a little indulgent without lifting a finger. The crockpot does all the work, giving you time to wrap presents, play board games, or cozy up with a book. And the flavor? Think rich, decadent, café-style hot chocolate that beats any powdered mix out there.

This isn’t just any hot chocolate. It’s melt-in-your-mouth creamy, deeply chocolaty, and you can customize it with fun toppings or liqueurs if you’re feeling fancy. Plus, it’s easy to scale up for a crowd — your slow cooker will be your holiday hero.

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Crockpot Hot Chocolate

This isn’t your average cup of cocoa. When you make hot chocolate in a crockpot, it becomes something magical. The slow, gentle heat creates an ultra-smooth and luxurious drink that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, treating your kids after a snowball fight, or just craving something warm and indulgent, this is your go-to recipe.

Here’s why this crockpot hot chocolate really works:

• Hands-Off Magic: Just toss everything in the slow cooker, give it a stir, and let it melt into rich, chocolaty perfection.
• Real Chocolate Flavor: No powdery mixes here! We use real chocolate and cocoa powder for that deep, velvety richness.
• Super Creamy Texture: Thanks to sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream, every sip is thick, luscious, and café-worthy.
• Perfect for a Crowd: Hosting a gathering? This makes a generous batch, and your crockpot keeps it warm for hours.
• Customizable: Add peppermint extract, a shot of espresso, or even a splash of Irish cream for a grown-up twist.

Dietary Swaps and Options:

• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use full-fat canned coconut milk and almond or oat milk. Swap in dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Sugar-Free: Opt for unsweetened cocoa and sugar-free chocolate chips, and sweeten with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
• Kid-Friendly Add-Ins: Marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, or crushed peppermint make it a festive hit.

If you’re already planning a cozy night in with a hot bowl of Crockpot White Chicken Chili or Lasagna Soup, this hot chocolate is the sweet ending you didn’t know you needed.

How To Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe

Recipe by Kenza

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Drinks, DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

Calories

400

kcal

A rich and ultra-creamy crockpot hot chocolate recipe made with real chocolate, perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or snowy afternoons.

Cook Mode

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Ingredients

• 6 cups whole milk

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips

• 0.5 cup chopped dark chocolate (about 70%)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 pinch salt

Directions

• Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need whole milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, a mix of chocolate chips and chopped dark chocolate, a splash of vanilla extract, and a tiny pinch of salt to balance it all out.
• Pour the milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk into your crockpot. This trio is what makes the hot chocolate ultra smooth and creamy — like sipping melted truffles.
• Then sprinkle in the cocoa powder. Don’t worry if it doesn’t blend in right away; it’ll dissolve beautifully as it warms up. Now toss in the chocolate chips and chopped dark chocolate. This combo gives a layered, deep chocolate flavor that no powdered mix can touch.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract and that little pinch of salt. It sounds like a small thing, but trust me — the salt is key. It rounds out the sweetness and gives the cocoa a richer depth.
• Now, set your crockpot to low heat. Give everything a good stir to combine. Let it cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally so the chocolate melts evenly and doesn’t settle at the bottom.
• Once everything is silky smooth and fully melted, switch your slow cooker to the warm setting. That way, it stays the perfect sipping temperature for hours.
• Now the best part — ladle it into mugs and top with whatever your heart desires: whipped cream, marshmallows, a drizzle of caramel, even a dash of cinnamon or crushed peppermint. You do you.

Notes

• You can halve the recipe for a smaller batch — just keep the ratios the same.
• For a thicker, almost pudding-like texture, reduce the milk by 1 cup.
• Use chopped baking chocolate instead of chips for a smoother melt.
• Stir in peppermint, almond, or hazelnut extract for fun flavor twists.
• For grown-ups, a splash of Bailey’s or Kahlua adds a cozy kick.
• Don’t skip the pinch of salt — it really does make a difference!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 400kcal
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 35g
• Protein: 7g

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My Favorite Tips for the Creamiest, Dreamiest Crockpot Hot Chocolate

This recipe is pretty foolproof, but I’ve got a few insider tips to take it to the next level. I’ve tested this so many times (for science, of course), and here’s what makes it truly perfect:

• Use High-Quality Chocolate: This is the star of the show! I love using a mix of semisweet chocolate chips and chopped dark chocolate for balance.
• Stir Occasionally: While the crockpot handles most of the work, give it a stir every 30 minutes to help everything melt evenly.
• Don’t Let It Boil: Keep it on low heat. Boiling can cause the dairy to separate and the chocolate to scorch.
• Keep It Warm for Hours: Once it’s ready, switch the slow cooker to the “warm” setting and let guests help themselves all evening.
• Make a Hot Chocolate Bar: Set out toppings like mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, cinnamon sticks, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings for a fun DIY experience.

Pair it with savory bites like Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip for a balanced spread that keeps everyone happy and cozy.

Variants You’ll Want to Try Next

Once you master the base recipe, it’s easy to play around with flavors and ingredients. Here are a few of my absolute favorite spins:

1. Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract at the end of cooking for a refreshing, minty twist. Top with crushed candy canes for extra flair. This one is perfect for holiday parties.

2. Mexican Hot Chocolate

Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper. The subtle heat and spice are divine paired with the deep chocolate flavor.

3. Mocha Hot Chocolate

Swap 1 cup of the milk for freshly brewed coffee or espresso. You get the comfort of hot chocolate with a little caffeine kick. Great for adult brunches or winter mornings.

4. Nutella Hot Chocolate

Stir in ½ cup of Nutella for a hazelnut-chocolate dream come true. It adds an extra creaminess and makes it feel extra decadent.

5. Vegan Coconut Hot Chocolate

Use canned coconut milk and dairy-free dark chocolate for a rich, tropical-inspired twist that’s entirely plant-based.

Serving Suggestions to Make It Extra Special

This hot chocolate is a star on its own, but a few thoughtful touches can elevate the experience:

• Serve in mugs with big handles, wrapped in festive twine or topped with mini candy canes.
• Top with whipped cream or marshmallows and dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon.
• Offer a hot chocolate bar with toppings in little bowls and ladles for serving — perfect for parties and sleepovers.
• Pair with cozy snacks like cookies, biscotti, or roasted Pumpkin Seeds for something sweet and salty.

How to Store and Reheat Like a Pro

Got leftovers? Lucky you!

• Storage: Let the hot chocolate cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or mason jar. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or return it to the crockpot on the warm setting. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it thickens.

Pro tip: It makes a great make-ahead option for brunch or dessert tables!

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Hot Chocolate

Believe it or not, this rich drink can have a second life in other treats!

• Hot Chocolate Popsicles: Pour into molds and freeze for a chilly twist on a winter favorite.
• Mocha Smoothies: Blend with a frozen banana and a little milk for a morning pick-me-up.
• Pancake Syrup: Reduce it slightly on the stove and drizzle over pancakes or waffles.
• Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Base: Swirl it into vanilla ice cream before freezing — it’s pure magic.
• Overnight Oats: Use it as the liquid for a chocolatey breakfast surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping It All Up

Whether you’re curled up watching your favorite holiday movie, hosting a winter brunch, or just craving a decadent treat, this crockpot hot chocolate hits every note — creamy, rich, comforting, and ridiculously easy. It’s a little indulgence that brings a lot of joy.

If you loved this, you might also want to try it alongside Crockpot White Chicken Chili or Lasagna Soup for a full-on comfort food feast.

And now it’s your turn! Try it, make it your own, and let me know how it goes. Share your cozy creations in the comments or tag me on social media — I’d love to see your mug!

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