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Cozy Crockpot Witches Brew Hot Chocolate

crockpot witches brew hot chocolate - featured image

A rich, velvety hot chocolate made in the slow cooker with a secret blend of warm spices, including a whisper of cayenne for a subtle heat. Perfect for cozy autumn nights, Halloween parties, or any day that needs a hug in a mug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk (1.4 liters)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (340 grams)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (30 grams)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Optional garnishes: mini marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  2. Pour about 1 cup of the whole milk into the slow cooker. Add the whisked dry ingredients and whisk until smooth and lump-free, forming a slurry.
  3. Add the remaining 5 cups of whole milk and the heavy cream. Stir to combine. Pour the chocolate chips on top (do not stir in yet).
  4. Drizzle the vanilla extract over everything. Do not stir yet.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour. Do not cook on HIGH.
  6. After 1 hour, remove the lid and whisk until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  7. Cover and cook on LOW for another 45 minutes to 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Ladle into mugs and garnish as desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not cook on HIGH or the milk may scorch and separate. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat oat milk and canned coconut cream. The cayenne is meant to be subtle—adjust to taste. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot chocolate, crockpot, slow cooker, witches brew, Halloween, cozy, autumn, chocolate, spiced hot chocolate