Print

Kid-Approved Crockpot Peppermint Hot Cocoa

crockpot peppermint hot cocoa - featured image
Print Recipe

Rich and creamy crockpot hot cocoa with just the right amount of cool peppermint, made with simple pantry ingredients. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe creates a velvety, magical drink that kids and adults alike will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Whipped cream (for serving)
  • Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (for serving)
  • Mini marshmallows (for serving)
  • Chocolate shavings (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Combine the dry ingredients in the crockpot. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to your crockpot. Whisk them together to break up any clumps in the cocoa powder.
  2. Add the milk and cream slowly, whisking constantly. Pour in about 2 cups of the milk first and whisk until the dry ingredients are fully dissolved into a smooth paste. Then add the remaining milk and the heavy cream, whisking everything together.
  3. Stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the vanilla. Give it one more good stir to distribute everything.
  4. Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally if you’re around. The cocoa is ready when it’s steaming hot and the chocolate chips have completely melted into the liquid.
  5. Add the peppermint extract at the very end. Turn off the crockpot or switch it to warm. Stir in the peppermint extract. Taste it and add another 1/4 teaspoon if you want a stronger mint flavor.
  6. Whisk one final time before serving. Give the cocoa a good whisk to make sure everything is well combined.
  7. Ladle into mugs and top as desired. Fill your mugs about three-quarters full to leave room for toppings. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, and a few mini marshmallows. Serve immediately.

Notes

Add peppermint extract at the very end to keep the mint flavor bright and fresh. For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with oat milk or unsweetened almond milk, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. For a lower-sugar version, reduce sugar to 1/2 cup and use sugar-free chocolate chips. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot hot cocoa, peppermint hot cocoa, slow cooker hot chocolate, kid-friendly hot cocoa, winter drink, holiday drink, homemade hot cocoa

Find it online: https://cookyep.com/kid-approved-crockpot-peppermint-hot-cocoa/