This Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is pure holiday magic! It’s creamy, rich, and has just the right touch of peppermint to warm your heart.
Making this is as simple as tossing everything in the Crockpot and letting it do the work. I love serving it with whipped cream and extra chocolate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives the hot chocolate a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk for a dairy-free version. For an extra indulgent twist, try using half-and-half!
Chocolate Chips: Semisweet and white chocolate chips are key for a balanced flavor. If you want to switch it up, dark chocolate chips can replace semisweet for a deeper taste. You could also use chocolate bars, just chop them into smaller pieces!
Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way with peppermint. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with half a teaspoon and taste as you go. In a pinch, peppermint oil can work, but use just a drop since it’s much stronger!
Crushed Peppermint Candies: Instead of using peppermint candies, crushed chocolate mint candies or even mini marshmallows make great alternatives for a fun topping.
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Consistency in My Hot Chocolate?
Getting that soft and creamy texture is crucial for this hot chocolate. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Combine all ingredients gently at the start to avoid clumping.
- Cook on low heat. This prevents scorching and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir occasionally while cooking. This helps everything melt evenly and keeps it creamy.
After cooking, give it a good stir before serving to ensure it’s mixed well. Enjoy your cozy cup!
Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (12 oz) package white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate will take about 10 minutes to prepare and will need 2 to 3 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for letting the flavors meld together while you relax and get cozy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In your 4 to 6-quart slow cooker (Crockpot), pour in the whole milk. Then, add the semisweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and the sweetened condensed milk. Use a spatula to stir all these ingredients together gently until they are nicely combined.
2. Cook the Hot Chocolate:
Cover the Crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes or so to ensure everything melts evenly and becomes velvety smooth.
3. Add the Peppermint Flavor:
Once the chocolate has melted and the hot chocolate looks creamy, it’s time to add the peppermint extract. Stir it in well—this will give your drink that wonderful holiday flavor!
4. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, leaving some room at the top for toppings. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream to each cup and sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top for an extra festive touch.
5. Enjoy!
Your Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is ready to be enjoyed! Sip and savor the rich chocolate flavor with that refreshing peppermint twist. Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season!
Can I Use Milk Alternatives for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that different milk alternatives may affect the creaminess and flavor slightly.
How Long Does Leftover Hot Chocolate Last?
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens up too much.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Combine everything except the peppermint extract in the Crockpot and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just heat it in the Crockpot and add the peppermint extract shortly before serving!
What Toppings Can I Use Besides Whipped Cream?
You can get creative with toppings! Try mini marshmallows, drizzles of chocolate syrup, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder. For added flavor, you can also use flavored whipped cream or even a scoop of ice cream on top!
