Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in a cozy and decadent treat with this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate. It combines rich chocolate, tart cherries, and creamy milk for a comforting drink perfect for chilly days or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the whole milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, entire jar of maraschino cherries with juice, cocoa powder, and sugar into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Step 2: Cook on HIGH for 2 hours. Heating to a high temperature helps release the cherry flavor fully.
- Step 3: Stir the hot chocolate well before serving. Top with whipped cream and garnish with additional cherries for an extra special touch.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, use whole or 2% milk and high-quality chocolate chips.
- Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice twist.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly or adjust to taste.
- For an adult version, stir in a splash of cherry liqueur or bourbon just before serving.
Storage
Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Whipped cream garnish is best added fresh at serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this hot chocolate without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this on the stovetop by gently heating the ingredients in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the chocolate melts and the flavors blend, about 20–30 minutes.
What type of cherries work best for this recipe?
Maraschino cherries in juice are ideal as they provide sweetness and color. Avoid fresh cherries unless you want to adjust the sugar and liquid content, as fresh cherries have a different texture and flavor profile.
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Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in a rich and creamy Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, perfect for cozy evenings. This delightful recipe combines whole milk, semi-sweet chocolate, maraschino cherries with their juice, cocoa powder, and a touch of sugar, slow-cooked to meld all the flavors beautifully. Topped with whipped cream and extra cherries, it’s a decadent treat that serves 8 and is easy to prepare in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- ½ gallon whole milk
- 11 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 oz jar maraschino cherries (including juice, about 23 cherries and ¾ cup juice)
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup sugar
Garnish
- Whipped cream (canned or fresh)
- Additional maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the whole milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, entire jar of maraschino cherries with juice, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir gently to mix all components evenly.
- Cook the Mixture: Set your slow cooker on HIGH and cook for 2 hours. This high temperature helps to extract and deepen the cherry flavor while melting the chocolate smoothly into the milk for a rich and creamy consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: After 2 hours, stir the hot chocolate well to ensure everything is blended perfectly. Serve into mugs and top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a few additional maraschino cherries for an attractive and flavorful garnish.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest and richest flavor; low-fat milk will produce a thinner hot chocolate.
- Be sure to include the cherry juice from the jar for the best cherry infusion.
- Cooking on HIGH in a slow cooker is essential to develop the full cherry and chocolate flavor.
- This recipe serves 8, ideal for sharing at gatherings or family occasions.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent scorching.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker hot chocolate, cherry hot chocolate, chocolate cherry drink, slow cooker beverages, easy hot chocolate recipe
