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 balances indulgence with a touch of nostalgia. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare in your slow cooker while impressing friends and family alike with its delightful taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delicious hot chocolate in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a flavor profile that’s both decadent and comforting.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a movie night at home, this drink fits right in.
• Customizable Toppings: Top it off with whipped cream and extra cherries for a personal touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves eight, making it ideal for sharing with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect hot chocolate, you’ll need some essential tools that will simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, ensuring that your hot chocolate is heated evenly without constant stirring.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts, which is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

To create the deliciousness of Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, gather these ingredients:

For the Hot Chocolate

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

For Topping

• 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, chocolate chips, the entire jar of maraschino cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar into your slow cooker.
2. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH and let it cook for about 2 hours.
2. Stir occasionally to ensure that everything is melting together nicely. The high temperature helps to release the cherry flavor fully.

Step 3: Serve

1. Once cooked, give it another good stir before serving.
2. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish. Enjoy your delightful beverage!

With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate will quickly become a favorite in your home!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving this delightful beverage is a great way to enhance its already delightful flavors. Here are some fun and creative suggestions to enjoy your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your hot chocolate with a generous dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and texture.

Garnished with Cherries

• Add extra maraschino cherries on top for a burst of cherry flavor and a visually appealing touch.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the whipped cream can elevate the chocolatey goodness even further.

Served in Fun Mugs

• Use festive or themed mugs to make serving more fun, especially during holidays or gatherings.

Accompanied by Cookies

• Pair your hot chocolate with chocolate chip cookies or biscotti for a sweet and satisfying snack combo.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

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

• Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips and fresh cherries for the best flavor.

• Stir Occasionally: Give the mixture a stir halfway through cooking to ensure that all ingredients blend well together.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste before serving; you can always add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.

• Experiment with Milk Alternatives: For a different twist, try using almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.

• Control Temperature: If possible, use a slow cooker with temperature control settings to avoid overheating the mixture.

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 more fulfilling experience. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat that pairs perfectly with hot chocolate; bake them fresh or serve store-bought.

2. Brownies – Rich and fudgy brownies complement the creamy texture of the hot chocolate wonderfully.

3. Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit like strawberries and bananas can provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

4. Marshmallow Treats – Rice crispy treats covered in marshmallows add an extra layer of fun and sweetness.

5. Mini Muffins – Flavored muffins like banana or blueberry are easy to grab and make great companions.

6. Pecan Pie Bars – These sweet bars offer nutty flavors that contrast nicely with the creamy drink.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate even more delightful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using low-quality chocolate: Quality chocolate chips enhance the flavor. Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the mixture can lead to uneven melting of the chocolate. Stir occasionally to ensure everything blends well.
• Ignoring the cooking time: Overcooking can alter the texture. Stick to the recommended 2 hours on HIGH for optimal results.
• Skipping the garnishes: Garnishes like whipped cream and additional cherries elevate presentation and taste. Don’t skip this step!
• Using regular cherries instead of maraschino: Maraschino cherries add a distinct sweetness and flavor. Substituting them can change the overall profile of the drink.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store uneaten hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Pour leftovers into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.
• Frozen hot chocolate can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer hot chocolate to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, heat in short bursts (1 minute) until warm, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over low heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is a rich beverage made with milk, chocolate, cocoa powder, and maraschino cherries, perfect for cozy gatherings.

Can I make this hot chocolate dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

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

Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or peppermint extract for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate!

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

Preparation takes just about 5 minutes, followed by 2 hours of cooking time in your slow cooker.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While you can use frozen cherries, maraschino cherries provide a unique sweetness that enhances this recipe’s flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is an irresistible treat that combines creamy richness with delightful cherry flavors. It’s perfect for sharing during chilly evenings or festive gatherings! Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors—your creativity knows no bounds!