Print

Creamy Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Bar Recipe with Easy Peppermint Whipped Cream

slow cooker hot cocoa bar - featured image

A rich and creamy slow cooker hot cocoa recipe topped with festive peppermint whipped cream, perfect for cozy winter gatherings or quiet evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups whole milk (950 ml)
  • 2 cups half-and-half (475 ml)
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75 g), sifted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large cinnamon stick (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (90 g)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240 ml), cold
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
  • Red and white crushed candy canes or peppermint sticks (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings or curls, caramel drizzle, cinnamon dusting

Instructions

  1. In your slow cooker, whisk together 4 cups whole milk, 2 cups half-and-half, 3/4 cup sifted cocoa powder, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the cinnamon stick if using.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 20 minutes to keep everything blended and prevent sticking.
  3. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Remove the cinnamon stick.
  4. Chill a mixing bowl and beat 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and whip until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  5. Ladle the hot cocoa into mugs, top with peppermint whipped cream, and garnish with crushed candy canes, mini marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.

Notes

If hot cocoa is too thick, stir in a splash of milk to loosen. Use fresh peppermint extract for best flavor. Sift cocoa powder to avoid lumps. Chill bowl and beaters for better whipped cream volume. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently and stir frequently.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cocoa, slow cooker, peppermint whipped cream, winter drink, holiday beverage, creamy hot chocolate, cocoa bar