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 gatherings with friends, this delightful drink offers a unique twist on traditional hot chocolate. With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy this indulgent beverage anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply add ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work. No complicated steps needed!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a rich, decadent drink that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, this hot chocolate fits perfectly into any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With eight servings, it’s ideal for sharing with family and friends.
• Customizable Toppings: Top it off with whipped cream and extra cherries for an added touch of sweetness!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Measuring Cups
• Stirring Spoon
• Serving Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This appliance allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your hot chocolate.
• Stirring Spoon: A good stirring spoon ensures all ingredients are mixed thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

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

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH.
2. Cook for 2 hours. This high temperature helps enhance the cherry flavor in your hot chocolate.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. After cooking, stir the mixture again to ensure everything is well mixed.
2. Serve hot in cups topped with whipped cream and garnish with additional cherries.

Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can elevate the experience and make it more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement this rich beverage perfectly.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an added layer of creaminess and sweetness.

Garnish with Cherries

• Add a few extra maraschino cherries on top for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of cherry flavor.

Pair with Cookies

• Serve alongside chocolate chip or sugar cookies to create a cozy snack pairing that delights the taste buds.

Add a Dash of Cinnamon

• Sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top of the whipped cream for a warm spice twist that enhances the chocolate flavor.

Use Fun Straws

• Present the hot chocolate in festive mugs with colorful straws for a fun touch, especially if serving at parties.

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 Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for richer flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before serving and adjust sugar levels according to your preference.
• Keep it Warm: If you’re serving at a gathering, set your slow cooker to warm after cooking to keep the hot chocolate at the perfect temperature.
• Stir Frequently: Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent any chocolate from sticking to the bottom.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings like crushed nuts or marshmallows for added texture and flavor.

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 an enticing spread. Here are some great options that work well together.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies that add sweetness and crunch, perfect for dunking.
2. Brownies – Fudgy brownies provide a rich dessert option that complements the drink beautifully.
3. Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit skewers add a refreshing contrast to the rich hot chocolate.
4. Mini Muffins – Fluffy mini muffins, such as blueberry or banana, offer a light bite alongside the drink.
5. Scones – Freshly baked scones pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, adding a buttery element.
6. Pretzel Bites – Soft pretzel bites provide a salty crunch that balances out the sweetness of the hot chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using low-quality chocolate: Cheap chocolate can lead to a grainy texture. Always choose high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for a smoother, richer flavor.
• Not stirring enough: Inadequate stirring can leave lumps of cocoa powder. Ensure you stir the mixture thoroughly before cooking to achieve a creamy consistency.
• Skipping the cherry juice: The cherry juice is essential for flavor. Do not discard it; use the entire jar of maraschino cherries, including the juice, for optimal taste.
• Overcooking: Cooking on HIGH for too long can scorch the chocolate. Stick to the recommended 2 hours on HIGH to maintain the perfect creamy texture.
• Ignoring presentation: Skipping garnishes can make your drink less appealing. Always top with whipped cream and additional cherries for an inviting look.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in increments of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate unique?

This recipe combines rich chocolate with sweet cherry flavors, creating a delightful beverage that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting treat.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes! Substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any preferred non-dairy alternative without sacrificing flavor.

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

Try adding flavored syrups like vanilla or peppermint, or mix in other toppings such as crushed nuts or sprinkles for extra flair!

Is it possible to make this hot chocolate ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Just ensure proper storage!

Can I add more cherries?

Certainly! Feel free to increase the amount of maraschino cherries if you want an even stronger cherry flavor in your hot chocolate.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is a rich and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress friends and family. Its versatility allows for different customization options, making it suitable for various occasions. Try it today, and enjoy a warm hug in a mug!