Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate is the perfect answer to chilly days, cozy nights, and festive gatherings. Rich, creamy, and indulgent, this hot chocolate is a far cry from the powdered mixes. It is smooth, velvety, and packed with deep chocolate flavor that instantly warms you from the inside out. The best part is that it comes together effortlessly in the slow cooker, making it ideal for serving a crowd or simply enjoying throughout the day.
There is something magical about the way hot chocolate simmers slowly over a few hours. The gentle heat allows the chocolate to melt perfectly into the milk, creating a luxurious texture that feels both comforting and decadent. The slow-cooker method also fills the entire home with the sweet, inviting scent of chocolate, adding to the cozy atmosphere.
This is not just any hot chocolate. It has that rich, café-style flavor with a creaminess that comes from real chocolate and milk working together. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and indulgent without feeling overly heavy. You can easily adjust the richness by choosing different types of chocolate, from milk to semi-sweet or dark, depending on how intense you like it.
Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate is also wonderfully customizable. A splash of vanilla or peppermint extract can add a festive twist. For something a little more grown-up, a touch of espresso or a dash of your favorite liqueur can elevate the experience even further. Toppings are where the fun really begins. Think whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy canes, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel.
Perfect for holiday mornings, movie nights, or anytime you want to treat yourself, this hot chocolate is as much about the experience as it is about the flavor. It invites you to slow down, pour yourself a mug, and savor the moment. Whether shared with friends and family or enjoyed solo with a good book, Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate delivers pure comfort in every sip.

Ingredients
- 4 cups milk whole for creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream for richness
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder adds depth of flavor, unsweetened
- 1 cup sugar adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor
Instructions
- Add milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar to the slow cooker.
- Whisk together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is hot.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve hot, with your choice of toppings such as whipped cream or marshmallows.
Can I use almond milk instead? Lactose intolerant here. Thx!
Yes, almond milk should work fine! Just make sure to pick a sweetened one for extra flavor. Enjoy your hot chocolate! 😊
Why is heavy cream necessary? Seems a bit extra to me. 🤷♂️
Heavy cream makes it richer and creamier! Totally worth it. 😋
I dunno, I think you could just use regular milk and it would be fine? Heavy cream feels fancy.
It turned out too sweet for me, maybe next time I’ll cut the sugar in half.
Perfect for cozy nights! I added some cinnamon on top and it was amazing!
My friend said it was too rich but I loved it! So indulgent.
Hot choco!! Yes!!
Isn’t heavy cream too much? I think it will make me sick.
I made this for my kids and they loved it! So creamy and rich.
I tried this recipe but mine turned out too sweet. Maybe less sugar next time?
Wow, this was way too much work for hot chocolate! Not worth it for me.
Hot choc late!!!
Sounds good, but that much sugar? Isn’t it too sweet? I think I’d put less in.
Yum! I love hot chocolate, especially when it’s slow-cooked. Can’t wait to try this! 😍
This hot chocolate is delicious! I used almond milk instead and it was sooo good!
I don’t have a slow cooker. Can I make it on the stove? It seems like too much trouble!
I dunno, it seemed too sweet for my taste. Maybe cut down the sugar next time?
Not sure about the vanilla extract, will it really make a difference? Sounds weird.
How do you make it without a slow cooker? I don’t have one and love hot chocolate.
You can make it on the stove! Just do the same steps but heat it gently while stirring. Easy peasy!
I think using a pot on the stove could burn the chocolate… be careful!
So good I even lick the pot clean! 🥰
Yum! I added a sprinkle of cinnamon and it was fantastic. Will make again!
I don’t have a slow cooker. Can I make this on the stove? Asking for a friend.
This hot choco is not just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug! Love it!
They say you gotta use whole milk, but I used low fat and it was fine. Just sayin’
I always use low fat too! Works just as well, right? Milk is milk, lol.
Yum! Can’t wait to try this on a snowy day! ☕️❄️
Honestly, who needs a recipe for hot chocolate? Just melt chocolate and add milk. This is too complicated.
This hot chocolate recipe is amazing! So creamy and delicious! Totally a hit with the kids!
This hot chocolate is the best I’ve ever had! So creamy and rich, perfect for winter nights.
I tried this recipe last night and it was AMAZING! Definitely my new go-to for chilly evenings! ❤️
Can you use almond milk instead? Trying to cut dairy. Help!