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Learn to make the most delicious crockpot hot cocoa that can keep warm! Plus, read on to learn how to incorporate the cocoa powder the easy way.
Crockpot Hot Cocoa
My classic hot cocoa is always a huge hit with my kids and friends, but when I need to make a bigger batch for a crowd and keep it warm, this crockpot hot cocoa made with cocoa powder is always a lifesaver!
This recipe uses cocoa powder, but when you need to fill many mugs, you can also use my recipe for crockpot hot chocolate with chocolate chips or this hot chocolate with chocolate milk in the slow cooker.
Ingredients
While using only milk will work, this recipe also adds a little half-and-half to yield a rich, creamy consistency that's second to none. Then, you’ll need sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
How to Make Hot Cocoa in the Crockpot
Here's an overview of the simple steps to make hot cocoa in the slow cooker:
- Microwave the milk until it's hot but not boiling. Meanwhile, heat the slow cooker.
- Combine the cocoa powder with the hot milk until smooth. Pour this mix into the slow cooker, add sugar, and stir. Then add half-and-half and the remaining milk.
- Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or on high for 45 minutes to 1 hour, adding the vanilla at the very end.
- Keep the hot cocoa warm by reducing the heat until serving. Add the toppings to the crockpot or after pouring this hot cocoa into mugs. Enjoy!
Best Toppings for Hot Cocoa
Marshmallows are just one of the best hot cocoa toppings you can add to make your mugs absolutely epic! A dust of cocoa powder, cinnamon, some chocolate syrup, or chocolate shavings are other family favorites. You can also serve a hot cocoa charcuterie board so everyone can pick their favorite mix-ins and snacks!
Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa (with Powder)
Watch how it’s made:
Ingredients
- 8 cups milk (½ gallon), divided
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup half and half
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Prep:
- Start heating up the slow cooker, either on high or low heat, to get the bowl warm.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat up 2 cups of milk for 2 minutes until it’s hot, not boiling.
- Combine the powdered cocoa with the hot milk and mix to incorporate, until you have no powdered left.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the bowl of the slow cooker and add the sugar. With a whisk, stir to start melting the sugar with the warm chocolate mixture. Pour the rest of the milk and half and half into the slow cooker and combine.
Cook:
- Cook on low for for 2 to 3 hours or on high for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Add the vanilla at the very end and stir.
- When it's time to serve it, reduce the heat to the warm setting. If your slow cooker doesn't have a warm setting, reduce it to low and stir occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom of the pot.
- Optional: Top the slow cooker with marshmallows and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Serve:
- Laddle out the hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Nancy Reynolds says
Looks delicious. Thanks so much.