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Cozy Crockpot Spiked Peppermint Hot Chocolate

cozy crockpot spiked peppermint hot chocolate - featured image

This rich, velvety hot chocolate is made in the slow cooker with semi-sweet chocolate, peppermint, and a touch of bourbon. It’s the perfect grown-up treat for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt until no lumps remain.
  2. Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  3. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the milk mixture. Do not stir.
  4. Sprinkle the cocoa powder and sugar mixture over the top. Do not stir.
  5. Drizzle the vanilla extract and peppermint extract over everything.
  6. Turn the slow cooker to low heat, cover, and cook for 2 hours.
  7. After 2 hours, remove the lid and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
  8. Pour in the bourbon and stir gently. Cook for another 15-20 minutes on low.
  9. Taste and adjust sweetness, peppermint, or bourbon as desired.
  10. Ladle into mugs and garnish with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and add an extra 1/2 cup of milk. The hot chocolate can be kept on the ‘keep warm’ setting for up to 4 hours. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot chocolate, crockpot, slow cooker, peppermint, spiked, bourbon, holiday, winter, cozy