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 or festive gatherings, this drink will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. With its luscious ingredients and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simply combine ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The blend of chocolate and cherry creates a rich flavor that feels like dessert in a cup.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a quiet night in, this hot chocolate fits right in.
• Customizable Toppings: Top with whipped cream and extra cherries for an impressive finish that’s sure to wow guests.
• Makes a Generous Batch: Serves eight, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful drink, you’ll need just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Whipped cream dispenser (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-free cooking while evenly heating ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps you combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every sip is perfectly blended.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your hot chocolate.

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Ingredients

Rich, creamy, and bursting with cherry-chocolate flavor, this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy treat! 🍒☕

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 ¾ 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. In your slow cooker, add the whole milk, chocolate chips, the entire jar of maraschino cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar.
2. Stir gently until all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 2 hours.
2. This high temperature enhances the cherry flavor, making it more robust.

Step 3: Serve Your Creation

1. After cooking time is complete, stir again to mix everything well.
2. Ladle into mugs, topping each serving with a generous amount of whipped cream.
3. Garnish with additional cherries for an extra special touch.

Enjoy this delightful beverage as a perfect way to unwind or celebrate!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

This delightful drink is perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience with the Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate.

With a Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a beautiful presentation.

Garnished with Cherries

• Use additional maraschino cherries as a garnish. They add a pop of color and enhance the cherry flavor.

Pair with Sweet Treats

• Serve alongside cookies or brownies. The chocolate flavors complement each other perfectly.

In Fun Mugs

• Use festive or themed mugs to make the drink feel special. This adds to the overall enjoyment of the beverage.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top of the whipped cream can take it to a new level of indulgence.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, keep these tips in mind.

• Use high-quality chocolate chips: Opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips that melt smoothly and provide rich flavor.
• Stir frequently: Give your hot chocolate a stir every 30 minutes while cooking to ensure even consistency and flavor distribution.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste and adjust sugar levels according to your preference for sweetness; you can reduce or increase it based on personal taste.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding crushed nuts or chocolate shavings as unique toppings for added texture and flavor.
• Serve warm: Ensure you serve this drink while it’s still warm for the best experience; reheat gently if necessary.

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 cozy treat occasion. Here are some great options:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   Classic, chewy cookies that perfectly complement the hot chocolate’s flavor.

2. Brownies
   Rich and fudgy brownies add depth to the sweet experience.

3. Marshmallow Fluff Dip
   A sweet dip made with marshmallow fluff that pairs well when served with fruit slices.

4. Pecan Pie Bars
   These bars offer a delicious crunch and sweetness, making them an excellent match for hot chocolate.

5. Fruit Skewers
   Fresh fruit skewers provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of hot chocolate.

6. Mini Muffins
   Fluffy mini muffins, like blueberry or banana, are easy to enjoy alongside your drink.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, a few common mistakes can affect your final product. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Too much cocoa powder or sugar can overpower the balance of flavors.
• Ignoring temperature settings: Cooking on low instead of high can lead to a less intense cherry flavor. Always cook on high for the best results.
• Neglecting to stir: Failing to stir occasionally can cause chocolate to settle at the bottom, leading to uneven melting. Stir every 30 minutes for consistency.
• Using the wrong type of chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal for this recipe. Avoid using milk chocolate, as it may make the drink too sweet.
• Overcooking: Cooking for too long can separate the mixture or alter its texture. Stick to the recommended 2 hours for the perfect creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the hot chocolate cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring constantly until heated. Be careful not to boil.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is a rich and creamy beverage made with semi-sweet chocolate, whole milk, and maraschino cherries, all blended together in a slow cooker.

Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk; however, it may alter the creaminess of the drink slightly.

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

You can add flavored syrups like vanilla or peppermint or mix in different chocolates such as dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace whole milk with a plant-based milk alternative and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is not only decadent but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or flavors. Try making this cozy treat today and enjoy its delightful cherry-chocolate goodness!