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The Best Crockpot Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate (Easy Party Drink)

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This crockpot salted caramel hot chocolate is the ultimate hands-off party drink, rich and smooth with a perfect salty-sweet balance. Made with simple, real ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fills your house with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups whole milk (1.4 liters)
  • 2 cups heavy cream (480 ml)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (340 grams)
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (50 grams)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup caramel sauce (240 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus more for garnish
  • Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, whipped cream, extra caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint

Instructions

  1. Prep your crockpot: Spray the inside of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or rub with butter for easy cleanup.
  2. Add the milk and cream: Pour 6 cups whole milk and 2 cups heavy cream into the crockpot and stir to combine.
  3. Add the dry ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup cocoa powder and ¾ cup sugar. Pour into the crockpot and whisk until mostly smooth.
  4. Add the chocolate chips and vanilla: Pour in 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Let them sit on top without stirring.
  5. Cook on low: Cover and cook on low for 2 hours. Stir with a whisk after 30 minutes, then again at 1 hour and 1.5 hours, until smooth and steaming.
  6. Add the caramel and salt: Stir in 1 cup caramel sauce and 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness as desired.
  7. Keep warm and serve: Switch crockpot to ‘warm’ setting. Ladle into mugs, top with desired toppings, and serve.

Notes

Don’t let the crockpot boil to prevent milk separation. For make-ahead, combine dry ingredients in a bag and measure chocolate chips the night before. If doubling, use an 8-quart crockpot or make two separate batches. For dairy-free, use full-fat oat milk and canned coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot hot chocolate, salted caramel hot chocolate, slow cooker hot chocolate, party drink, holiday drink, easy hot chocolate

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/the-best-crockpot-salted-caramel-hot-chocolate-easy-party-drink/