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Cozy Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

cozy slow cooker salted caramel hot chocolate - featured image
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This rich and creamy slow cooker hot chocolate is made with semi-sweet chocolate chips, salted caramel, and a touch of sea salt. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it drink for holiday parties, family gatherings, or cozy winter nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk (1.4 liters)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (340 grams)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (45 grams)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 ml)
  • 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (160 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes (plus more for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream, mini marshmallows, caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, crushed pretzels

Instructions

  1. Prep the slow cooker (2 minutes) – Plug in your slow cooker and set it to low. Lightly spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray or rub it with a little butter.
  2. Whisk the cocoa powder (3 minutes) – In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Add about 1/2 cup of warm water and whisk until you have a smooth, thick paste.
  3. Combine the liquids (2 minutes) – Pour the 6 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream into the slow cooker. Add the cocoa paste and whisk until fully combined.
  4. Add the chocolate chips (1 minute) – Pour in the 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let them sit on top without stirring.
  5. Add the salted caramel (1 minute) – Drizzle the 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce over the top. Do not stir yet.
  6. Cook on low (2 hours) – Cover and cook on low for 2 hours. After 1 hour, stir well to incorporate the melted chocolate chips and caramel.
  7. Finish with vanilla and salt (1 minute) – After 2 hours, stir in the 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness as desired.
  8. Serve and garnish (5 minutes) – Ladle into mugs. Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, sea salt flakes, and other desired toppings.

Notes

For best results, use whole milk and heavy cream. Do not cook on high to avoid scorching. Whisk cocoa powder with warm water first to prevent lumps. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker hot chocolate, salted caramel hot chocolate, hot chocolate for a crowd, winter drink, holiday drink, slow cooker drink

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/cozy-slow-cooker-salted-caramel-hot-chocolate/