Indulgence in a Mug (Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate)

Ah, the cozy allure of a steaming cup of hot chocolate! Picture this: rich, creamy, chocolatey goodness, with jewel-like bits of cherry dancing on your palate. That’s exactly what you get with this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate! It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and sweetness, perfect for snuggling up with a book or enjoying a delightful evening with friends. This luscious concoction is a must-have for cold nights and any day you need a little extra cheer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels! This recipe is all about indulgence and ease.
– Rich & Creamy: The silky texture of whole milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips creates pure bliss in every sip.
– Cherry Bliss: Bursting with the vibrant essence of maraschino cherries, this drink is like a cherry jubilee in a cup!
– Effortlessly Easy: Just toss everything in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen—no slaving over the stove!
– Perfect for Gatherings: Whip up a big batch to impress your guests during parties, cozy nights in, or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to dive into a world of flavor with these simple yet delightful ingredients! The combination of maraschino cherries and cocoa powder is the secret to this hot chocolate’s incredible taste. Here’s what you’ll need to create this dreamy drink:

– ½ gallon whole milk
– 11 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries (juice and all—about 23 cherries and ¾ cup juice)
– ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ¼ cup sugar
– Whipped cream (canister is fine)
– Additional cherries for garnish

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate lies in its versatility! Here are some fun ideas to customize it to your taste:
– Go Dairy-Free: Swap the whole milk for almond or oat milk for a creamy, non-dairy option.
– Add Extra Chocolate: For serious chocoholics, sprinkle in some chocolate shavings or switch to dark chocolate chips.
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of cinnamon for a warm kick that perfectly complements the sweetness.
– Swap the Cherries: Try raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist on this classic recipe.
– A Lush Topping: Get creative with toppings like shaved chocolate, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel!

How to Make Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Ready to whip up this cozy masterpiece? Let’s get started with your slow cooker!

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In your slow cooker, add the whole milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, the entire jar of maraschino cherries (with juice), unsweetened cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir until everything is well mixed, and the chocolate chips start to melt.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to HIGH and let it cook for 2 hours. This allows those delicious cherry flavors to infuse into the chocolate, creating a heavenly blend!

Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!

Once the time is up, give it a good stir to combine all the delightful flavors. Serve your rich chocolate wonder in mugs topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a few extra cherries for that picture-perfect finish.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

– Quality Matters: Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor—your taste buds will thank you!
– Give it Time: For the richest flavor, resist the urge to lift the lid during the cooking time.
– Stir Frequently: If you’re around, give it a stir halfway through to ensure even melting and flavor distribution.
– Taste Test: After cooking, feel free to adjust the sweetness—add more sugar if you like it sweeter!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Garnishes

Elevate your hot chocolate with some fabulous garnishes! Consider:
– Whipped cream
– Chocolate shavings
– Crushed nuts for some crunch
– A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth!

Side Dishes

Pair this decadent drink with:
– Warm chocolate chip cookies
– Fluffy marshmallows
– A slice of rich chocolate cake

Creative Ways to Present

Make serving special with these ideas:
– Pour into individual mugs and set them on a tray for a cozy gathering.
– Use mason jars for a rustic touch, perfect for parties!
– Create a hot chocolate bar with various toppings for guests to customize their drinks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let them cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While this hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it! Just be aware that the texture might change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

To serve after storing, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring until warm and smooth again.

FAQs

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free version, but make sure to use the unsweetened variety for best results.

How do I make this gluten-free?

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! You can make this ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe spicy?

Nope! This recipe is sweet and creamy, but you can add a pinch of cayenne if you want a spicy kick!

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is more than just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug! With its irresistible blend of chocolate and cherry flavors, this cozy treat is bound to bring smiles and warmth to every chilly day. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delightful adventure! You deserve a moment of indulgence, and this recipe is your ticket to pure bliss. Enjoy every sip! 🍒☕️