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 movie nights, holiday gatherings, or simply warming up on a chilly day, this delightful beverage will surely impress. The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a unique taste experience that is both comforting and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious drink without any fuss.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, this hot chocolate will satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize your drink with various toppings like whipped cream or extra cherries to suit your taste.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Let the slow cooker do all the work while you relax and enjoy.
• Rich and Decadent: The blend of chocolate chips and maraschino cherries creates an irresistible flavor that feels luxurious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving the perfect hot chocolate.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Whisk (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Mixing spoon: Necessary for thoroughly combining all ingredients, ensuring a smooth texture in your drink.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you make this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Hot Chocolate

• 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 Garnishing

• 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 thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 2 hours.
2. Heating at high temperature enhances the cherry flavor, making it more pronounced in every sip.

Step 3: Serve with Toppings

1. After cooking, stir the mixture once more to ensure everything is well blended.
2. Serve hot topped with fluffy whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting night in. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your drink experience.

Classic Whipped Cream

• Top your hot chocolate with a generous swirl of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture and sweetness.

Extra Cherries

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

Chocolate Shavings

• Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for added decadence and a touch of elegance.

Marshmallows

• Float some mini marshmallows on top for a nostalgic touch that everyone will love.

Crushed Nuts

• Add crushed almonds or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the smooth hot chocolate.

Flavored Syrups

• Drizzle with cherry syrup or chocolate syrup for an additional layer of flavor and sweetness.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Higher quality chocolate chips will enhance the richness of your drink.

• Stir Regularly: Make sure to stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even melting.

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

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

• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your hot chocolate right after it’s ready for the best taste and temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can make for an even more delightful experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   A classic treat that pairs perfectly with hot chocolate, providing a sweet crunch.

2. Brownies
   Fudgy brownies complement the rich flavors of the hot chocolate and add a chewy texture.

3. Fruit Skewers
   Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing contrast and balance the sweetness of the drink.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when paired with sweet hot chocolate.

5. Pretzel Bites
   Soft pretzel bites provide a salty touch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet beverage.

6. Rice Crispy Treats
   These chewy treats are simple to make and add nostalgia to your hot chocolate experience.

7. Mini Pancakes
   Serve mini pancakes alongside, perhaps drizzled with syrup, for a fun breakfast twist.

8. Banana Bread
   The moist texture and sweetness of banana bread make it a comforting companion to your drink.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Not stirring enough: If you don’t stir the mixture well, the chocolate chips may not melt evenly, leading to clumps. Always give it a good stir before and during cooking.
• Using low-quality chocolate: Low-quality chocolate can alter the flavor significantly. Opt for good semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich taste.
• Overcooking the hot chocolate: Cooking too long can cause the milk to scorch. Stick to the recommended 2 hours on HIGH for best results.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like whipped cream and additional cherries enhance both presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this step for an inviting look!
• Ignoring temperature settings: Cooking on LOW instead of HIGH may not extract the cherry flavor effectively. Always follow heating instructions closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as it will expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low-medium heat, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate that might help you out.

Can I use non-dairy milk in Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?

Yes! Non-dairy milk options like almond or oat milk can be substituted for whole milk while maintaining delicious flavors.

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

Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or use flavored syrups for a different twist!

What type of cherries should I use?

Maraschino cherries are recommended as they add sweetness and a lovely cherry flavor that complements the hot chocolate perfectly.

Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe serves up to 8 people, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights with friends and family.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings!