Recipe details
Ingredients
- 1L whole milk
- 300ml double cream
- 200g milk chocolate, chopped
- 75g dark chocolate, chopped
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 3 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp golden syrup
- 1 tbsp black treacle
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon or smoked paprika for extra warmth
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and give everything a good stir.
- Cook on low for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until smooth, glossy, and perfectly thickened.
- Ladle into mugs, top with mini marshmallows, and toast until golden — a kitchen blowtorch or quick blast under the grill works perfectly.
Serving ideas:
– Add a splash of Baileys, orange liqueur, or spiced rum for a grown-up version.
– Sprinkle over a pinch of sea salt or grated chocolate just before serving.
– For a family-friendly night, set up a hot chocolate bar with whipped cream, crushed biscuits, and caramel drizzle.
Cosy tip:
Make a batch before guests arrive and keep it on “warm” — it’ll stay perfectly smooth for hours, ready to ladle out whenever someone needs a refill.
Slow Cooker Winter Hot Chocolate with Toasted S’mores Topping
When the nights draw in and it’s far too cold to contemplate leaving the sofa, this slow cooker hot chocolate is your answer to instant winter comfort.
Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent, it’s the kind of recipe that quietly bubbles away while you wrap gifts, watch a Christmas movie, or come in from a frosty walk — filling the kitchen with that unmistakable scent of melted chocolate and sweetness in the air.
The best part? It’s made almost entirely in the slow cooker. No standing at the hob, no watching for milk to boil over — just mix, stir, and let it do the work while you get cosy.
And because winter deserves a little drama, we’re topping it with toasted mini marshmallows for a s’mores-style finish. Think creamy, smoky, toffee sweetness in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions about Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Can you really make hot chocolate in a slow cooker?
Yes! It’s one of the easiest ways to make hot chocolate for a crowd. The gentle heat melts the chocolate slowly and evenly, creating a luxuriously smooth texture without risk of burning. It also keeps warm for hours — perfect for gatherings or cosy evenings.
How long does hot chocolate take in a slow cooker?
Around 2 hours on low is ideal. Stir every 30 minutes to help the chocolate melt evenly and prevent any skin from forming. Once it’s smooth and silky, switch the slow cooker to “keep warm” and it’ll stay perfect for serving.
What type of chocolate is best for slow cooker hot chocolate?
A mix of milk and dark chocolate gives the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Choose good-quality bars that you’d happily eat — they’ll melt better and taste smoother. You can also add a spoon of cocoa powder for extra depth.
How can I make it even creamier?
For an ultra-rich hot chocolate, swap a little milk for extra double cream, or stir in a spoonful of Nutella or Biscoff spread just before serving.
Can I make it dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely. Use oat milk or almond milk and a dairy-free dark chocolate. The texture will still be thick and indulgent — just make sure to choose a bar with at least 50% cocoa for best results.
How do you toast the marshmallows on top?
Once ladled into mugs, scatter with mini marshmallows and toast with a kitchen blowtorch until golden. If you don’t have one, pop the mugs under a hot grill for 30 seconds — just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes. You can mix all the ingredients in the slow cooker bowl the night before and refrigerate it. The next day, simply place the bowl back into the slow cooker and heat on low until melted and steaming.
How long will leftovers keep?
Leftover hot chocolate can be cooled and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave, whisking well before serving to bring back that silky texture.
Can I add flavours to make it more festive?
Definitely — this recipe is made for it. Try:
– ½ tsp cinnamon or mixed spice for winter warmth
– A splash of orange extract or zest for a chocolate orange twist
– A drizzle of salted caramel syrup
– A spoonful of your cinnamon butter stirred through before serving
