Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Rich, creamy, and bursting with cherry-chocolate flavor, this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy treat! Perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply a sweet pick-me-up, it captures the essence of comfort in a cup. With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy this indulgent beverage any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just five minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates an irresistible taste that will delight everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with whipped cream for a cozy evening or as a festive drink during gatherings.
• Generous Portions: This recipe yields eight servings, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
• Customizable Toppings: Enhance your hot chocolate with additional cherries or other favorite toppings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful hot chocolate, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will not only make the process easier but also ensure you get the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Whipped cream canister

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, ensuring even heat distribution for rich flavors.
• Mixing spoon: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before cooking to enhance flavor development.

Ingredients

For this delightful beverage, gather the following ingredients:

Dairy Base

• ½ gallon whole milk

Chocolate and Cocoa

• 11 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Cherry Flavoring

• 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries (juice and all)

Sweetener

• ¼ cup sugar

Toppings

• whipped cream (canister is fine)
• additional cherries for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

1. In your slow cooker, add the whole milk.
2. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until well mixed.
3. Add the entire jar of maraschino cherries along with their juice.
4. Sprinkle in the unsweetened cocoa powder and sugar. Stir everything together until combined.

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH and cover it.
2. Let it cook for 2 hours. This high temperature helps to extract the cherry flavor fully.

Step 3: Serve

1. Once cooked, give the mixture a good stir to combine any settled ingredients.
2. Ladle into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional cherries as desired. Enjoy your decadent treat!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can enhance the experience of this delightful drink. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it that will impress your guests and elevate your cozy nights in.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for a rich, creamy texture that complements the chocolate and cherry flavors.

Garnished with Cherries

• Top each serving with additional maraschino cherries for a burst of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the whipped cream adds an extra layer of indulgence and enhances the visual appeal.

Served with Biscotti

• Pair your hot chocolate with crunchy biscotti for a delightful contrast in textures. Choose almond or chocolate-flavored biscotti to match the theme.

In a Festive Mug

• Serve in colorful or themed mugs to make the occasion special. This is especially fun during holidays or gatherings with friends.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh whole milk and quality chocolate chips yield a richer flavor that enhances your hot chocolate experience.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring every 30 minutes helps prevent the chocolate from sticking to the sides of the slow cooker, ensuring even melting.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar based on your preference. Taste as you go!
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even flavored syrups for unique variations on this classic drink.
• Keep Warm Setting: If serving over an extended period, switch to a warm setting after cooking to maintain temperature without overheating.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can enhance your enjoyment. Here are some delicious options:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   These classic treats offer a sweet complement that pairs perfectly with the rich hot chocolate.

2. Mini Marshmallows
   Fluffy mini marshmallows can be added directly into your hot chocolate for extra sweetness and texture.

3. Fruit Skewers
   Fresh fruit skewers featuring strawberries and bananas provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the drink.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses such as brie and aged cheddar can balance sweetness beautifully while offering savory bites.

5. Homemade Brownies
   Fudgy brownies provide an indulgent pairing that complements the hot chocolate’s richness perfectly.

6. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
   The sweet-and-salty flavor profile makes these pretzels an irresistible snack alongside your warm beverage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making hot chocolate in a slow cooker can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Flavor Overload: Using too much cocoa powder can overpower the cherry flavor. Stick to the recommended amount for balance.
• Bold Insufficient Stirring: Not stirring well before cooking can lead to uneven melting of chocolate chips. Always stir thoroughly to combine ingredients.
• Bold Ignoring Cook Time: Cooking on low for too long can alter the taste and texture. Use the high setting for the right duration as specified in the recipe.
• Bold Skipping Garnishes: Serving without whipped cream or cherries can make your drink less appealing. Don’t skip these toppings for added flavor and presentation.
• Bold Forgetting to Taste: Neglecting to taste before serving can lead to oversweetness or lack of flavor. Always sample your hot chocolate and adjust if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the hot chocolate to cool completely before transferring it to ensure freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the liquid will expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate.

What can I substitute for whole milk in Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk as a substitute for whole milk while maintaining creaminess.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used! Just make sure to pit them and chop them before adding them into the slow cooker.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

You can customize by adding flavors like vanilla extract or peppermint extract. Experiment with different types of chocolate chips as well!

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

The total time is approximately 125 minutes, including 5 minutes of prep and 120 minutes of cooking time on high heat.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy on cold days. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors for a unique twist! Try this recipe today and enjoy a deliciously comforting drink.