Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe

Get ready to transform your next holiday or cozy gathering with Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate! This creamy, velvety drink strikes the perfect balance between deep chocolate notes and a cool peppermint zing, making it a festive favorite that practically guarantees satisfied smiles. Whether you’re serving a crowd at your next party or simply enjoying a chilly evening at home, this recipe brings comfort and something a little magical, all with minimal effort thanks to your trusty slow cooker.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate plays a key role—from the rich, silky chocolate chips to the refreshing pop of peppermint. Gather these simple, accessible components and you’ll be on your way to confectionary bliss in no time!

• Chocolate Chips: Melting chocolate chips creates a creamy hot chocolate base with luxurious depth and sweetness.
• Candy Cane Bits, Crushed: These infuse peppermint flavor throughout the drink and give delightful color flecks.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla smooths and rounds out the chocolate and mint, making everything taste a little more homemade.
• Milk: For unbeatable creaminess, use whole or 2% milk, but any variety you love can be substituted.
• Whipped Cream (for garnish): Fluffy whipped cream tops every mug with buttery smoothness and visual flair.
• Additional Candy Canes (for garnish): Crushed or whole, these give a festive crunch and pure peppermint aroma as a finishing touch.

How to Make Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by adding your chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, vanilla extract, and milk directly into your slow cooker. This is the foundation of your Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate, and mixing all the ingredients at once helps the flavors start mingling right away.

Step 2: Heat Slowly for Creamy Perfection

Set the crockpot to high for 45 minutes or low for 90 minutes, depending on how much time you have. The gentle cooking process allows every bit of chocolate and peppermint to fully melt and blend into the milk for that ultra-smooth, decadent drink.

Step 3: Whisk Everything Together

Once the hot chocolate has heated through and everything looks melty, give the mixture a good whisk. Make sure all those chocolate chips are fully incorporated and the candy cane pieces are dissolved for even flavor in every sip.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate into mugs and finish each with a generous swirl of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle or stick of candy cane. This final touch adds both charm and extra bursts of flavor—don’t skip it if you want the full holiday effect!

How to Serve Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Garnishes

The classic whipped cream swirl is always a winner, but feel free to get creative! Top your mugs with a dusting of cocoa powder, a sprinkle of extra candy cane bits, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup. These finishing touches make every mug feel special.

Side Dishes

Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate pairs beautifully with simple sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies, biscotti, or even slices of rich pound cake. These treats not only complement the drink’s chocolate-mint flavor but also elevate your holiday spread to another level of cozy delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Create a hot chocolate bar by setting out mugs, plenty of garnish options (think marshmallows, crushed cookies, sprinkles, or caramel bits), and a ladle in the crockpot for self-serve fun. For a more elegant touch, serve in clear glass mugs so the creamy chocolate color peeks through and top each with a miniature candy cane hooked onto the rim.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate left at the end of your gathering, just let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep comfortably in the refrigerator for up to three days, ready to warm and enjoy again when the mood strikes.

Freezing

Freezing is a great way to make this drink ahead or save leftovers for another chilly night. Pour cooled hot chocolate into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Alternatively, reheat individual servings in the microwave in 30-second bursts, whisking between each until heated through and perfectly creamy.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy milk for Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate?

Absolutely! Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work wonderfully in this recipe, so feel free to use your favorite to make it dairy-free and just as delicious.

How do I keep the hot chocolate from getting too sweet?

If you find the finished beverage is a bit sweeter than you’d like, just stir in more plain milk until it’s balanced to your preference. You can also add a small pinch of salt after everything melts, which really helps round out the flavors.

Can I prepare Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate in advance for a party?

Definitely! Make the recipe a few hours ahead, then keep it warm on your crockpot’s “keep warm” setting. Give it a good whisk before serving to ensure it stays smooth and even.

What kind of chocolate chips should I use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, but feel free to use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your sweetness preference. You could even mix a couple of varieties for a unique flavor blend.

How can I make this hot chocolate thicker?

For an ultra-rich version, swap in a cup of heavy cream for some of the milk, or whisk in a tablespoon of cocoa powder. Both tricks amp up the thickness for a decadent result!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want a cup of seasonal joy, Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and merry cheer in every sip. Give it a try this season and discover why it’s become a staple for so many holidays and wintry evenings—your family and friends will thank you!

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