Get ready to transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland with the most decadent, creamy, and mind-blowingly delicious hot chocolate you've ever tasted! This Peppermint Crockpot Hot Chocolate isn't just a drink—it's a magical experience that will transport you to a cozy cabin, wrapped in a soft blanket, with snowflakes gently falling outside. Imagine rich, velvety chocolate infused with a cool peppermint twist, topped with crushed candy that adds a festive crunch—all made effortlessly in your crockpot with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 cups of milk, 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies for topping.
- In a large crockpot, pour in the 4 cups of milk. This will serve as the base for your hot chocolate.
- Add the entire can of sweetened condensed milk to the crockpot. This will add creaminess and sweetness to your hot chocolate.
- Next, add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture. You can use semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even dark chocolate chips, depending on your preference.
- Pour in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This will give your hot chocolate a refreshing minty flavor.
- Stir all the ingredients together using a whisk or a large spoon until everything is well combined.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2 hours. This will allow the chocolate chips to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- After 2 hours, carefully remove the lid and stir the hot chocolate again to ensure it is smooth and creamy. If it is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the hot chocolate is ready, ladle it into mugs. Be cautious as it will be hot!
- Top each mug of hot chocolate with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch and an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious peppermint crockpot hot chocolate with family and friends!
Tips
- Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality chocolate chips for the richest, most luxurious flavor. Dark, milk, or semi-sweet all work wonderfully.
- Milk Temperature: Start with room temperature milk to help ingredients blend more smoothly.
- Stirring is Key: Occasionally stir during the 2-hour cooking process to prevent chocolate from sticking and ensure even melting.
- Customize Your Toppings: Beyond crushed peppermint, try whipped cream, marshmallows, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently in the crockpot or microwave.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
- Spike It (Adults Only): Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or peppermint schnapps for a grown-up version.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 35mg