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Cozy Crockpot Spiked Peppermint Hot Chocolate

crockpot peppermint hot chocolate - featured image
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This rich and creamy crockpot hot chocolate is infused with warm peppermint and made with simple ingredients. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it can be served with or without a splash of alcohol for a cozy, crowd-pleasing drink.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups whole milk (1920 ml)
  • 2 cups heavy cream (480 ml)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (350 grams)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (50 grams)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 ml)
  • 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract (5 to 7.5 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5 grams)
  • Optional for serving: Peppermint Schnapps or Bourbon (about 1 ounce / 30 ml per serving)
  • Optional garnishes: Whipped cream, crushed candy canes, chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Prep the Crockpot (5 minutes): Plug in your slow cooker and set it to low. Give the insert a quick wipe with a paper towel to make sure it’s clean and dry.
  2. Combine the Dry Ingredients (3 minutes): In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt.
  3. Start with the Milk and Cream (2 minutes): Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into the crockpot. Give it a quick stir with your whisk to combine them.
  4. Add the Dry Ingredients (2 minutes): Slowly sprinkle the cocoa powder mixture over the milk while whisking constantly. Whisk in small batches, making sure each addition is fully incorporated before adding more.
  5. Add the Chocolate Chips (1 minute): Pour in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir gently.
  6. Add the Vanilla and Peppermint (1 minute): Stir in the vanilla extract and start with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Give it a good stir, then cover the crockpot with the lid.
  7. Cook on Low for 2 Hours: Set a timer for 1 hour and 45 minutes. About halfway through, give it a quick stir. The chocolate chips should be fully incorporated by the 1-hour mark.
  8. Taste and Adjust (5 minutes): After 2 hours, uncover and stir. Ladle a small amount into a mug and let it cool for a minute before tasting. Add more peppermint extract in 1/4 teaspoon increments if desired.
  9. Keep Warm for Serving (up to 4 hours): Switch the crockpot to the ‘warm’ setting. If your crockpot doesn’t have a warm setting, turn it off and cover it.
  10. Serve and Garnish (5 minutes): Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, filling them about 3/4 full. Top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and chocolate shavings. For adults, set out a small carafe of peppermint schnapps or bourbon.

Notes

Start with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and taste before adding more; it is potent. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened oat milk or full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot hot chocolate, peppermint hot chocolate, spiked hot chocolate, slow cooker hot chocolate, holiday drink, Christmas drink, hot chocolate for a crowd

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/cozy-crockpot-spiked-peppermint-hot-chocolate/