Crockpot Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe

Hey there, friend! Let’s talk about your new winter obsession: a crockpot peppermint hot chocolate that’s so simple, even your “I-burn-toast” cousin could nail it. Imagine this: You’re curled up in fuzzy socks, your kitchen smells like a chocolate factory collided with a candy cane, and you didn’t even have to stand over a stove. That’s the magic we’re making today.

Why This Recipe is Your Winter Soulmate

1. It’s Lazy-Genius Level Easy
   Dump everything in a crockpot. Press “on.” Walk away. Come back to a creamy, dreamy drink that makes you look like a holiday wizard. Perfect for when you’d rather binge-watch cheesy Hallmark movies than babysit a saucepan.
2. It’s Basically a Party in a Mug
   Hosting? This stuff stays warm for hours, so you can sip, chat, and accidentally spill glitter everywhere without stress. Bonus: Kids (and adults) lose their minds over the candy cane garnish.
3. You Can Sneak in “Fancy” Touches
   Swap the chocolate chips for a chopped-up gourmet bar, add a splash of coffee for depth, or spike it with peppermint schnapps for the grown-ups. No one has to know.

Let’s Make It (No Apron Required)

Grab These Things:

• Your crockpot (the one hiding behind the Instant Pot)
• A whisk (or a fork in a pinch—we don’t judge)
• Mugs (bonus points for ones that say “Santa’s Favorite”)

The Goods:

• 4 cups whole milk (or almond milk if you’re feeling ~fancy~)
• 2 cups heavy cream (because December is not the month for skim milk)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or a chocolate bar you’ve stress-chopped)
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (the secret to that “deep cocoa hug” flavor)
• ⅓ cup sugar (or more if you’ve got a sweet tooth—live your truth)
• 1-2 tsp peppermint extract (start with 1 tsp—it’s sneaky strong!)
• Tiny pinch of salt (to make all the flavors sing in harmony)

Do This:

1. Throw It All In
   Dump everything into the crockpot. Whisk like you’re trying to solve world peace. It’ll look lumpy at first—that’s okay! The slow cooker works its magic.
2. Set It & Pretend You’re Busy
   Lid on. Low heat for 2 hours. Stir every 30 minutes if you remember (if not, no one’s calling the cocoa police).
3. Go Wild with Toppings
   Ladle into mugs and top with:
   • Whipped cream (the taller, the better)
   • Crushed candy canes (pro tip: smash them in a Ziploc bag—it’s therapeutic)
   • Chocolate shavings (use a veggie peeler on a chocolate bar—chef’s kiss)

Tips from My Messy Kitchen to Yours

• Mint Mishap? Added too much extract? Stir in extra cream or a spoonful of sugar to mellow it out. Crisis averted.
• Too Thick? Add a splash of milk. Too thin? A cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold milk) will save the day.
• Leftovers? Keep ‘em in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently (microwave works) and pretend it’s a new batch.

FAQs (For the Overthinkers)

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Heck yes! Swap milk for oat milk (it’s creamier) and use coconut cream. Dairy-free chocolate chips are your BFF here.

Q: What if I hate peppermint?
A: First, how dare you. Kidding! Skip the extract and add cinnamon, vanilla, or a swirl of caramel instead.

Q: Can I double this for a crowd?
A: Double, triple, go nuts. Just make sure your crockpot isn’t overflowing—hot cocoa lava is not a festive look.

The Final Sip:
This isn’t just a drink—it’s a mood. It’s the reason your friends will text you “ARE YOU MAKING THAT COCOA??” every winter. And the best part? You’ll spend less time cooking and more time doing what matters: laughing too loud, stealing cookies from the tray, and making memories that stick.

Now go forth, cozy human. Your crockpot’s waiting. 🎄☕

P.S. If you “accidentally” drink the whole batch yourself… we’ve all been there. No shame.

crockpot hot chocolate

Making the perfect peppermint hot chocolate is all about the right ingredients and following the right steps. This recipe card will guide you through making a holiday drink that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker or crockpot
• Wooden spoon or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Mugs for enjoying

Method

 

1. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot
2. Whisk ingredients until smooth
3. Cover and cook on low for 2 hours
4. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching
5. Serve hot with optional toppings