Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of hot chocolate to bring comfort on a chilly day. This delightful recipe for creamy hot chocolate combines rich cocoa flavors with the sweetness of maple syrup and chocolate chips, all simmered together in a Crockpot for an easy, hands-off treat. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in, this hot chocolate recipe will surely become a favorite!
Ingredients
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup heavy cream
7 cups whole milk
¾ cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Marshmallows (mini and large-sized)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
2 hours
Total Time
2 hours 10 minutes
Yield
Serves approximately 8-10 cups
Now that you have a clear guide on how to make this rich and creamy hot chocolate, gather your ingredients and enjoy a cozy beverage that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients
In the Crockpot, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder and heavy cream.
2. Whisk Smooth
Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the whole milk, milk chocolate chips, maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and kosher salt.
4. Whisk Thoroughly
Whisk to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
5. Cover and Cook
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 2 hours.
6. Whisk After 1 Hour
After 1 hour, whisk the mixture to ensure the chocolate chips are fully incorporated.
7. Continue Cooking
Continue cooking until the hot chocolate is heated through to your liking.
8. Serve with Marshmallows
Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows.
Notes
Whisking is Key
Frequent whisking helps to ensure that the chocolate chips melt completely and that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Adjust Sweetness
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to your taste preference.
Milk Options
Feel free to substitute any type of milk (e.g., almond milk, oat milk) for a different flavor or dietary preferences.
Marshmallow Variety
Using a mix of mini and large marshmallows can add texture and visual appeal to your hot chocolate.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
When combining the unsweetened cocoa powder and heavy cream in the Crockpot, ensure that you whisk them thoroughly to achieve a smooth mixture without lumps.
Incorporating Chocolate Chips
After adding the milk chocolate chips, it’s essential to whisk the mixture after one hour of cooking to guarantee that the chocolate chips melt and mix completely into the hot chocolate.
Adjusting Consistency
Monitor the cooking time to adjust the consistency of the hot chocolate according to your preference. If you prefer it thicker, you may allow it to cook a bit longer.
Serving Method
Use a ladle to portion the hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with marshmallows for added flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use different types of milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with alternative milk options such as almond, oat, or skim milk, but this may change the creaminess and flavor.
How can I make this hot chocolate dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and choose a dairy-free milk alternative.
Is it possible to use sweetened cocoa powder?
While it’s possible to use sweetened cocoa powder, you may want to reduce or omit the maple syrup as it may make the hot chocolate too sweet.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I add other flavors to the hot chocolate?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients like peppermint extract, cinnamon, or even a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This rich and creamy hot chocolate made in a Crockpot is perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting treat on a cold day. Its delightful blend of cocoa powder, milk chocolate chips, and maple syrup creates a luxurious drink that can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. Enjoy it warm, topped generously with marshmallows for the ultimate experience.
Chocolate Mint Variation
Add crushed peppermint candies or a few drops of peppermint extract to the hot chocolate mixture for a refreshing minty twist.
Caramel Hot Chocolate
Drizzle in some caramel sauce before serving, or substitute the maple syrup with caramel syrup for a sweet, buttery flavor.
Spicy Hot Chocolate
Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Nutty Infusion
Stir in some hazelnut spread or almond extract to infuse your hot chocolate with rich, nutty flavors that will elevate your drink.
White Chocolate Delight
Replace the milk chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier version that pairs wonderfully with a hint of vanilla.
