Christmas Eve Creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate

Here’s a cozy, recipe for Christmas Eve Creamy Crockpot Hot Chocolate — perfect for sharing with friends and family on a chilly holiday night.

8 cups whole milk (or 2% for a lighter option)
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (for extra creaminess)
2 cups heavy cream
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped good quality chocolate)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm holiday twist)
½ teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Prepare Your Crockpot:
Set your crockpot to low heat.
Combine Dairy Ingredients:
Pour the whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk into the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
Add Chocolate and Cocoa:
Sprinkle the cocoa powder evenly over the milk mixture, then add the chocolate chips.
Add Flavorings:
Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), and salt.
Cook and Stir:
Cover and cook on low for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Check Consistency and Sweetness:
After 2 hours, the hot chocolate should be creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed—add sugar or more sweetened condensed milk if desired.
Serve Warm:
Ladle into mugs and garnish with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or chocolate shavings.
Keep Warm:
Keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting during your gathering, stirring occasionally.

Use quality chocolate: Good chocolate melts better and tastes richer.
Stir often: Prevents burning or sticking at the bottom.
For a boozy version: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps, Irish cream, or your favorite liqueur just before serving.