Rich & Creamy Hot Chocolate Recipe (Slow Cooker & Stovetop)
I have scoured high and low for a decadent, velvety and creamy Hot Chocolate Recipe that is simple to make, kid approved, and uses whole foods ingredients that I actually have on hand. Well, after many hot chocolate recipe tweaking (this kids did not mind being my taste testers!) I have found the one. This Hot Chocolate Recipe is soooo delicious, and uses simple ingredients that you can feel good about.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Recipe
Hot Chocolate Recipe WITHOUT Sweetened Condensed Milk
I know technically sweetened condensed milk is milk and sugar, but I just don’t love the added processed foods and the added sugar in the foods I feed my family. This hot chocolate is made creamy, velvety and delicious without the use of sweetened condensed milk, which is a product I prefer to stay away from.
Thick And Delicious (Polar Express Approved Hot Cocoa!)
If you’re mouth waters at the Polar Express scene where the children are served Hot Chocolate, then you will be extremely satisfied pouring yourself a mug of this delicious hot cocoa recipe!
Healthy Hot Chocolate Ingredients You Can Feel Good About
The not-so-secret secret ingredient that makes this recipe velvety and rich without the added sugars from sweetened condensed milk is eggs! Wait! Don’t fear! I know that sounds strange, but I promise if you give this recipe a try you will never go back! It’s the kind of hot chocolate recipe that you’ll be dreaming of, promise!
Ingredient List
Eggs
Yes, you read that right. I put eggs in my hot chocolate recipe. Rather, this recipe calls for you to temper the eggs into the hot chocolate. First, the eggs are optional but give it an extremely rich and creamy texture. And two, instead of the added sugar that a can of sweetened condensed milk adds, the added egg provides nutrients and protein. It’s really a win-win. Have I convinced you yet? I promise, it’s truly a life changing ingredient to this hot cocoa recipe!
Milk
Any milk will do but whole milk is what we always have on hand and what we love to use. Even oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or goats milk would work! I would shy away from using 1% milk because it’s basically water anyways. Sorry not sorry!
Heavy Whipping Cream
Heavy whipping cream is optional but it really takes this hot chocolate over the top into the “decadent and rich” category. In a pinch, just use whole milk in it’s place.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a healthier option than milk chocolate due to its antioxidants and flavonoids, which may improve heart health, boost brain function, and elevate mood. If you want a sweeter hot chocolate, you can sub ½ cup of milk chocolate and 1 ½ cups dark chocolate.
Vanilla
Vanilla is one of those ingredients you don’t realize you need unless it is gone. Adding a bit of Vanilla to your Hot Chocolate will give it warmth and round out the chocolate flavor.
Toppings
Marshmallows are my kids topping on choice! We also love a dollop of whip cream and chocolate syrup when we are feeling especially fancy.
For a hot chocolate bar, I like to include marshmallows, instant espresso for the grown ups, candy canes, and gingerbread people.
Tools and Equipment
Slow Cooker
If you’re making this hot chocolate in a slow cooker, something small like this one is perfect for a family of 4. For a large crowd I would recommend a 6 or 8 quart slow cooker and adjusting the recipe accordingly.
Pot
The Stovetop Method requires a large pot. I love using stainless steel in my cookware and always reach for my all-clad stock pot.
Mugs
I don’t care if you use thrift store mugs or fancy ones like these glass Anchor Hocking Mugs, you just need a vessel to consume this delicious hot chocolate!
Hot Chocolate Recipe
Rich & Creamy Hot Chocolate
This hot chocolate recipe is rich and creamy using whole foods ingredients. Perfect for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
- 6 cups milk
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs (optional for added protein and thickness)
Instructions
Stovetop Hot Chocolate
- In a large saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and chocolate chips. Place the pan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and heated through.
- While the chocolate mixture is heating, whisk two large eggs in a small bowl. Once the mixture is hot but not boiling, temper the eggs by slowly ladling a small amount of the hot chocolate into the eggs while whisking constantly. Repeat with another ladleful to gently raise the temperature of the eggs without scrambling them.
- Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously, and cook for another 2–3 minutes on low heat to fully incorporate and slightly thicken the hot chocolate.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla syrup for the final touch of flavor.
- Serve immediately, garnished with whipped cream, marshmallows, or other favorite toppings. Enjoy the rich, velvety hot chocolate!
Crockpot Hot Chocolate
- Combine the milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract in your slow cooker.
- Cover and cook the mixture on Low for about two hours, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- After 2 hours, whisk together two eggs in a mixing bowl. Slowly temper the eggs by adding a ladleful of the hot chocolate mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly. Repeat with another ladleful to gently bring the eggs up to temperature without scrambling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the slow cooker and stir thoroughly to fully incorporate it into the hot chocolate.
- Serve the hot chocolate warm in mugs and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, marshmallows, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Enjoy!
Notes
How To Store Leftovers:
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in a sealed container. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the eggs from curdling. Alternatively, leftover hot chocolate can be frozen in ice cube trays and blended with milk for a frosty chocolate drink or used in smoothies for a creamy treat.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
10Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 395Total Fat: 27gSaturated Fat: 17gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 92mgSodium: 101mgCarbohydrates: 29gFiber: 2gSugar: 25gProtein: 9g
