Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Published: September 21, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and a slow cooker, you can create a luxurious drink without any fuss.
Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or a fun party treat, this hot chocolate fits right in.
Customizable Toppings: Dress up your hot chocolate with whipped cream and extra cherries for an extra special touch.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet treat, making it a hit for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate requires a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This is the star of the show; it evenly heats the ingredients while infusing flavors over time.
Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps combine all ingredients thoroughly for a smooth consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that every flavor shines through in your hot chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Base

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

Add the whole milk, chocolate chips, the entire jar of maraschino cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar into your slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Cook on High

Set your slow cooker to cook on HIGH for 2 hours. This high temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the cherry taste in your hot chocolate.

Step 3: Serve with Toppings

After cooking, stir the mixture again to ensure everything is well combined. Serve hot in mugs topped with whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish. Enjoy this decadent treat!

With these easy steps, you’ll have a batch of heavenly Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate ready to delight your friends and family!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this rich and creamy drink.

With Whipped Cream

Top each cup with a generous swirl of whipped cream for added richness.

Garnished with Cherries

Add a few maraschino cherries on top for a beautiful presentation and extra cherry flavor.

In Fun Mugs

Serve in colorful or themed mugs to make it feel festive and fun, especially during holidays or gatherings.

As a Dessert Drink

Pair it with dessert items like brownies or cookies for a complete indulgence experience.

With Flavor Enhancements

Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an aromatic twist that complements the chocolate and cherry flavors.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To achieve the best version of your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, follow these simple tips.

Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality chocolate chips and fresh maraschino cherries to enhance flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before serving and adjust sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
Stir Occasionally: Give the hot chocolate a stir every 30 minutes while cooking to ensure even melting and flavor distribution.
Serve Immediately: For the best taste, serve it right after cooking while it’s still warm and creamy.
Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or flavored syrups for variety.

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 overall experience. Here are some great options:

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies that complement the chocolatey richness of your drink perfectly.
Brownies: Fudgy brownies provide a decadent pairing that balances well with the hot chocolate’s sweetness.
Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized desserts add a creamy tang that contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of cherry and chocolate.
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing balance to the richness of hot chocolate, making for a lighter option.
S’mores Bites: These little treats bring together graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate—a perfect match!
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavor enhances the overall dessert vibe while providing texture contrast.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: Add crunch and saltiness that pairs well with sweet drinks like this hot chocolate.
Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, warm rolls drizzled with icing create an indulgent side that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your drink turns out perfectly every time.

Using low-fat milk: Low-fat milk does not provide the same creaminess as whole milk. Stick to whole milk for the best texture and flavor.
Skipping the cocoa powder: Some may think chocolate chips alone are enough, but cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor. Don’t skip it if you want a rich taste.
Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the mixture can lead to uneven melting of the chocolate. Make sure to stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Overcooking: Cooking on high for too long can scorch the chocolate. Stick to the recommended cooking time for optimal results.
Ignoring garnish options: Garnishing with whipped cream and extra cherries adds visual appeal and enhances flavor. Don’t overlook this step!

Refrigerator Storage

Storage Duration: Keep your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Storage Duration: This hot chocolate can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Containers: Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe mug. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop: Transfer to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate thicker?

To achieve a thicker consistency, try adding more cocoa powder or reducing the amount of milk slightly. You can also blend in some cornstarch mixed with water before heating.

Can I use dark chocolate instead?

Yes! Using dark chocolate chips will give your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate a richer flavor. Adjust sugar levels if necessary since dark chocolate is less sweet.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dairy-free version.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

Definitely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth or even a splash of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is an irresistible treat that combines rich flavors with creamy textures. It’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or garnishes! Enjoy making this delightful drink that everyone will love.

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