On chilly afternoons or festive winter nights, nothing warms your soul quite like a mug of homemade hot chocolate. This slow cooker version is smooth, comforting, and imbued with a delightful hint of peppermint. It’s easy to throw together and leaves you free to enjoy the cozy moments while it gently simmers to creamy perfection.
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
- Marshmallows or whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
Before you begin, give your slow cooker a light spritz of cooking spray so cleaning up later is even easier. First, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and cocoa powder in a bowl until there are no lumps. Transfer this mixture into your slow cooker and add the chocolate chips, sugar, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of salt.
Turn your slow cooker to low and let the mixture warm for about two hours, giving it a quick stir every half hour or so. This helps the chocolate chips melt evenly into the milk and prevents sticking. About ten minutes before serving, stir in the peppermint extract to bring a refreshing and festive flavor to your hot chocolate.
Once ready, ladle this decadent hot chocolate into mugs and top with fluffy marshmallows or a swirl of whipped cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few chocolate shavings or crushed candy canes over the foam.
Feel free to adjust sweetness levels by adding a little more or less sugar, depending on your preference. If you like your hot chocolate thinner, stir in a touch more milk just before serving.
Throughout the process, your kitchen will be filled with the heavenly aroma of chocolate and peppermint, setting the stage for a heartwarming treat.
This recipe is wonderful for cozy family gatherings, holiday parties, or a comforting solo indulgence on a quiet evening. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, swap out the whole milk and cream for coconut milk or almond milk, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
You can also experiment with flavored extracts—like almond or orange—for new twists on this classic drink. With minimal effort and maximum delight, Creamy Peppermint Dream Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is the perfect wintertime companion.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
