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Easy Crockpot Peppermint Hot Cocoa: Best Cozy Drink

crockpot peppermint hot cocoa - featured image

This easy crockpot peppermint hot cocoa is the ultimate cozy drink for busy weeknights. Simply dump everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic for a rich, creamy, and perfectly pepperminty treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk (or 2%)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (plus more to taste)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Mini marshmallows (for topping)
  • Crushed candy canes (for topping)
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Chocolate shavings (for topping)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add about 1/2 cup of the milk and whisk until smooth to form a slurry.
  2. Pour the remaining milk and heavy cream into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the cocoa slurry, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Stir well.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours. Stir halfway through.
  4. After 2 hours, stir and taste. Add more peppermint extract or sugar if desired.
  5. Switch the slow cooker to the WARM setting until ready to serve.
  6. Ladle into mugs and top with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and chocolate shavings as desired.

Notes

Don’t let the cocoa boil. If your crockpot runs hot, check after 90 minutes. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat oat milk or canned coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate chips. For a spiked version, stir in 1/2 cup peppermint schnapps after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot hot cocoa, peppermint hot cocoa, slow cooker hot chocolate, easy hot cocoa, winter drink, Christmas drink