I absolutely love a good warm drink, especially when the weather turns chilly and the holidays are near. Hot chocolate is a favorite in our home, and it brings such a cozy feeling. Sometimes, though, you need something simple that still feels special.
That’s why I’m sharing two of my favorite hot chocolate recipes today. They are both super easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Get ready to enjoy some comforting cups of holiday cheer!
Jump to Recipe:
- 1. Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate: Easy Holiday Drink
- 2. Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Minty Sweet Treat
Cozy Christmas Eve Crockpot Hot Chocolate: Easy Holiday Drink
Nothing says happy holidays like a warm mug of hot chocolate. This crockpot recipe makes it super easy to have a delicious drink ready for everyone on Christmas Eve.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient makes your hot chocolate incredibly creamy and sweet without needing extra sugar.
- Good Quality Cocoa Powder: Using a nice cocoa powder makes a big difference in the chocolate taste. It will be rich and delicious.
- Keep it Warm in the Crockpot: The best part about using a crockpot is that it keeps the hot chocolate warm for hours. Perfect for a party or long evening!
What You Need for Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- 6 cups milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⏱️ Time: Prep 10 min, Cook 2-3 hours🍽️ Yields: 8-10 servings
How to Make Crockpot Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Pour the milk and heavy cream into your crockpot. Add the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
Step 2: Heat Slowly
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or on high for 1 to 1.5 hours. Make sure to stir it every 30 minutes or so to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom and to help the chocolate melt evenly.
Step 3: Serve Warm
Once all the chocolate chips are melted and the hot chocolate is hot, it’s ready! Keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting if you want to serve it throughout the evening. Serve with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
📝 Final Note
To make this hot chocolate even more festive, you can add a cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves to the pot while it heats up. Just remember to remove them before serving!
Festive Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Minty Sweet Treat
If you like mint, you will love this special peppermint hot chocolate. It’s a sweet, cool drink perfect for a festive winter day.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Pure Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way with peppermint extract. Start with a small amount and add more if you like a stronger mint taste.
- Quality Chocolate: Use good quality chocolate chips or a chopped chocolate bar for the best flavor. Dark chocolate or semi-sweet both work well.
- Serving Ideas: Top your mug with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a beautiful and extra minty touch.
What You Need for Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- 4 cups milk (any kind you prefer)
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
⏱️ Time: Prep 5 min, Cook 10 min🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Heat Milk and Chocolate
Pour the milk into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chocolate chips and sugar. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and hot. Do not let it boil.
Step 2: Add Flavors
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Taste it and add a tiny bit more peppermint extract if you want a stronger mint flavor. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a wonderful holiday treat. Serve immediately while warm.
📝 Final Note
You can store any leftover peppermint hot chocolate in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often, until warm.