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 delightful drink combines the lusciousness of chocolate with the sweetness of cherries. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply add all ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work!
• Decadent Flavor: The rich combination of chocolate and cherries creates a unique taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for cold winter nights, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in.
• Customizable Toppings: Serve with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a delightful finish.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe serves 8, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. A slow cooker is crucial for achieving that rich flavor, while measuring cups will ensure you get the proportions just right.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Measuring Cups
• Spoon for Stirring
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures that you get the right balance of ingredients for optimal taste.
• Spoon for Stirring: Helps mix all ingredients thoroughly before cooking.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving your hot chocolate without spilling!

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 (this is about 23 cherries and 3/4 cup juice).)
• 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 cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar into your slow cooker.
2. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH.
2. Cook for 2 hours. Heating at a high temperature enhances the cherry flavor.

Step 3: Serve Your Creation

1. Once done cooking, stir well again to combine any settled ingredients.
2. Ladle into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional cherries as desired.

Enjoy this delightful hot chocolate that brings warmth and happiness to any gathering!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is all about enhancing the experience. This delightful drink can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate its rich flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• Top each cup with a generous dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and a touch of elegance.

Fresh Cherries on Top

• Add a few whole maraschino cherries as a garnish to enhance the cherry flavor and make the drink visually appealing.

Chocolate Shavings

• Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for an extra layer of chocolate goodness that will impress guests.

Serve with Biscotti

• Pair this hot chocolate with crunchy biscotti for a delightful contrast in textures, perfect for dipping!

Marshmallows

• Float some mini marshmallows on top for a fun and nostalgic touch, making each sip even sweeter.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To achieve the perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your drink is creamy, flavorful, and truly irresistible.

• Use high-quality chocolate chips: Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for richer flavor and smooth consistency.

• Heat thoroughly: Cook on HIGH for 2 hours; this allows the cherry flavor to meld beautifully with the chocolate.

• Stir well before serving: Ensure all ingredients are fully combined for a consistent texture and taste throughout the drink.

• Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture before serving; feel free to add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.

• Experiment with spices: Consider adding a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.

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 beverage experience. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside your drink:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft, chewy cookies provide a classic pairing that complements chocolate flavors perfectly.

2. Peanut Butter Brownies: These rich brownies offer a nutty twist that balances the sweetness of the hot chocolate.

3. Mini Fruit Tarts: Light and fruity tarts add freshness and a touch of acidity that contrasts nicely with the creamy drink.

4. Cheesecake Bites: Creamy cheesecake bites are decadent yet small enough to enjoy alongside your hot chocolate without overwhelming it.

5. Spiced Muffins: Warm muffins flavored with cinnamon or nutmeg create a cozy atmosphere that pairs beautifully with hot beverages.

6. Maple Pecan Scones: These buttery scones provide crunch and a hint of sweetness, making them an excellent complement to your drink.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the Stirring: Not stirring the ingredients before cooking can lead to uneven melting of the chocolate. Make sure everything is mixed well at the start for a creamy consistency.

• Using Low-Quality Chocolate: Low-quality chocolate chips can affect the flavor. Opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich taste that complements the cherries.

• Overcooking: Cooking for too long can burn the chocolate and alter its flavor. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 2 hours on HIGH.

• Ignoring the Garnish: Serving without whipped cream or extra cherries misses out on adding a delightful finishing touch. Always top your hot chocolate for enhanced flavor and presentation.

• Not Adjusting Sweetness: Everyone’s taste buds are different. If you find it too sweet, consider reducing the sugar amount to suit your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for about 3-5 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays.
• It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of milk?

You can definitely substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. Just remember that this may slightly change the flavor and creaminess of your drink.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version of Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, use plant-based milk and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

How can I customize my hot chocolate?

Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or mix in peppermint extract for a festive twist!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes! Fresh cherries work well but will require pitting and chopping them before adding to the slow cooker.

What if I want it thicker?

For a thicker consistency, consider adding more cocoa powder or using less liquid when preparing your slow cooker hot chocolate.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is not just rich and delicious; it’s also versatile! You can adjust sweetness levels and add personal twists with spices or toppings. We encourage you to try this cozy drink for gatherings or as a comforting treat on chilly evenings!