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, gatherings, or simply indulging yourself, this delightful drink combines the sweet taste of chocolate and cherries into a warm hug in a mug. With minimal prep time and easy instructions, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just combine ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate and maraschino cherries creates an irresistible taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, this hot chocolate fits right in.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious treat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or top with whipped cream and extra cherries for a fancy touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delectable hot chocolate, you’ll need some essential tools that ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon
• Serving mugs

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of the show! It allows for even heating and melds flavors beautifully over time.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your drink turns out just right every time.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps to blend all ingredients thoroughly for a smooth finish.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• ½ gallon whole milk
• 11 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries (juice and all; about 23 cherries and 3/4 cup juice)
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup sugar

For Serving

• Whipped cream (canister is fine)
• Additional cherries for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH for 2 hours.
2. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. The longer you cook it at high heat, the better the cherry flavor will develop.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once cooked, give it one final stir before serving.
2. Pour into mugs, topping each serving with whipped cream.
3. Garnish with additional cherries for an extra special touch!

Enjoy your rich, creamy cup of Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, perfect for warming up any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

This delightful beverage is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some creative ways to serve your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate that will impress your guests and elevate the experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in clear mugs to showcase the rich, chocolatey color.
• Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream for a creamy finish.

Garnished Delight

• Add a maraschino cherry on top as a sweet garnish.
• Sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for extra flair.

Party-Ready

• Create a hot chocolate bar with toppings like crushed nuts, marshmallows, and more cherries.
• Provide festive straws or spoons for a fun touch.

Cozy Movie Night

• Pair with warm blankets and cozy pillows for the ultimate relaxation.
• Serve alongside popcorn for a sweet and salty snack combination.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To achieve the best flavor and texture, follow these simple tips. They will ensure your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is absolutely irresistible.

• Use high-quality chocolate chips: Opting for premium semi-sweet chocolate chips enhances the overall flavor of your hot chocolate.

• Stir well during cooking: Frequent stirring helps combine all ingredients evenly and prevents sticking at the bottom of the slow cooker.

• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the hot chocolate to sit for an extra 10–15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to add more sugar or reduce it if you prefer less sweetness.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding flavored whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for unique twists on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can create a complete indulgent experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic treats complement the rich flavors of hot chocolate perfectly. Bake them fresh or serve store-bought versions.

2. Brownies: Fudgy brownies add an extra layer of chocolate delight that pairs wonderfully with cherry hot chocolate.

3. Scones: Sweet scones, especially those with fruit or nuts, provide a light balance to the richness of the drink.

4. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing contrast and bring in additional fruity flavors that match well with cherries.

5. Mini Pancakes: Bite-sized pancakes topped with syrup can be dunked into your hot chocolate for a fun twist.

6. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can provide savory bites that contrast nicely with the sweetness of hot chocolate.

7. Popcorn: Sweet or savory popcorn adds crunch and makes for an easy snack alongside your cozy drink.

8. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The combination of salty and sweet makes these snacks perfect for enjoying with hot chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Low-Fat Milk: Low-fat milk can change the creamy texture of your hot chocolate. Stick with whole milk for the best results.
• Not Stirring Well: If you don’t stir the mixture thoroughly before cooking, the ingredients may not combine properly. Always ensure a good mix!
• Overcooking: Cooking for too long can cause the chocolate to seize up. Stick to the 2-hour cooking time on HIGH for optimal flavor.
• Skipping Garnishes: Whipped cream and extra cherries add a delightful touch. Don’t skip these fun toppings to enhance your drink’s presentation.
• Ignoring Temperature: It’s crucial to cook on HIGH for this recipe. Lower temperatures can result in a less intense cherry flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 1–2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious treat, check out these FAQs!

What makes Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate so special?

This drink stands out due to its rich combination of chocolate and cherry flavors, creating a decadent experience perfect for cozy evenings.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor profile. Adjust sugar accordingly if you prefer it less sweet.

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

Feel free to experiment! Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a twist.

Is there a vegan option for this hot chocolate?

You can substitute whole milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is not just a delightful drink; it’s a versatile recipe that invites customization. Whether you stick with the classic or add your unique twist, this warm treat is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors!