Christmas Eve Creamy Crockpot Chocolate

This Christmas Eve creamy crockpot hot chocolate is my favorite way to bring everyone together on a wintry holiday night. It is luxuriously rich thanks to heavy cream and both semi-sweet and white chocolate chips. Plus you let the crockpot do all the work while you make memories with family or wrap one last present. Every mug is a cozy tradition in my home and I am always asked for seconds the moment marshmallows go on top.

I first made this when we hosted Christmas Eve game night and now we make it every year. When I smell warm chocolate filling the kitchen it instantly brings back those joyful family moments.

Ingredients

• Heavy cream: two cups brings that signature creamy body and velvety texture so choose the best quality you can find with no added thickeners
• Milk: four cups helps balance out the richness without making it too heavy and whole milk is my top pick for classic flavor
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: one cup delivers that true hot chocolate depth so pick a brand you love and look for chips with smooth glossy surfaces
• White chocolate chips: one cup add sweet creaminess and a rich mouthfeel that makes every sip extra silky
• Vanilla extract: one teaspoon brightens and ties together all the chocolate flavors choose pure vanilla for best results
• Powdered sugar: one half cup gives easy to dissolve sweetness and you can taste and add more if you love it sweeter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Pour your heavy cream and milk into your crockpot. Stir together and make sure they are well mixed. This combination sets the foundation for creamy hot chocolate.

Add the Chocolate:

Scatter in your semi sweet and white chocolate chips. There is no need to melt them ahead because the crockpot will do the work. Stir gently to coat the chips with the dairy mixture.

Incorporate Flavor:

Add your vanilla extract and sprinkle in the powdered sugar. Give the entire mixture a good whisk to blend in the sugar and infuse the vanilla.

Slow Cook the Mixture:

Cover and set your crockpot to low. Let it heat for two hours but stir every thirty minutes to ensure even melting and to prevent any chocolate from sticking to the sides.

Finish and Serve:

Once everything is completely melted and creamy ladle into mugs and top with your favorite marshmallows whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve warm and enjoy the festive aroma.

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My favorite part is scooping on the marshmallows and watching them melt into the chocolate pool. My kids always rush to add their own toppings and it becomes a sweet moment of creativity at the holiday table.

Storage Tips

Let leftover hot chocolate cool then pour into a jar or airtight container to refrigerate. It keeps for up to three days and tastes just as good gently reheated on the stove. If it thickens too much just splash in extra milk and stir until smooth.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a plant based version. If you prefer a darker drink swap white chocolate chips for more semi sweet chips. Peppermint or almond extract can also be used for holiday twists.

Serving Suggestions

Top mugs with marshmallows whipped cream or peppermint sticks for that classic holiday look. This beverage pairs so well with shortbread cookies brownies or even spiced nuts as a festive warm up treat for guests.

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Cultural Context

Hot chocolate has been a holiday tradition for generations and I love how each family puts their own stamp on the recipe. Whether stirred with a cinnamon stick or sipped by the fireplace this drink never fails to make Christmas Eve feel magical.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I prepare hot chocolate ahead of time?

Yes, simply prepare a few hours in advance and keep warm in the crockpot. Stir before serving for best texture.

→ Can I use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk?

Absolutely. Almond, oat, or coconut milk can be used. This may slightly change the texture, but it will remain delicious.

→ How can I adjust sweetness?

Reduce the amount of powdered sugar to taste, or substitute with your favorite sweetener for a customized flavor.

→ What toppings complement this drink best?

Marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed candy canes all add delightful texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make on the stovetop if I don't have a crockpot?

Yes, all ingredients can be gently heated and mixed in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Let cool, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

→ Can I freeze extra hot chocolate?

Leftovers can be frozen in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring to combine before serving.