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 irresistible taste of chocolate and cherries. Its easy preparation makes it suitable for any occasion, from family movie nights to holiday celebrations. You’ll love how it fills the room with warmth and sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting drink that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries offers a unique twist on traditional hot chocolate that’s sure to impress.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves eight, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in with friends and family.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Let your slow cooker do the work while you relax; just set it and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful hot chocolate, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and a perfect outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Whisk or spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows you to cook your hot chocolate slowly, enhancing the flavors without constant attention.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of ingredients for rich flavor.
• Whisk or spoon: A good whisk helps mix everything smoothly, preventing clumps in your hot chocolate.
• Ladle: A ladle makes serving easy while keeping your hands clean.

Ingredients

To make the best Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, gather these ingredients:

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).)

For Flavor Enhancement

• 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 cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Cook on High

1. Set your slow cooker to HIGH.
2. Allow it to cook for 2 hours. Heating at a high temperature helps release more cherry flavor into the hot chocolate.

Step 3: Serve

1. After cooking, stir well before serving.
2. Ladle into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is just as important as making it! This delightful drink can be enjoyed in various ways that elevate the experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

• Top each cup with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture complements the rich chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully.

Add Extra Cherries

• Place a few additional maraschino cherries on top of the whipped cream. This adds a pop of color and an extra burst of cherry flavor.

Pair with Cookies

• Serve alongside chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies. The sweetness of the cookies enhances the overall experience of drinking hot chocolate.

Use Festive Mugs

• Present the hot chocolate in colorful or themed mugs. This adds a fun touch to your serving and makes it more visually appealing.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the whipped cream before serving. This not only looks gorgeous but also intensifies the chocolate flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To make sure your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh milk and quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooking may lead to a thicker consistency than desired.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring helps to blend all ingredients evenly, enhancing the overall richness.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste before serving and adjust sugar levels according to your preference.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding marshmallows or crushed nuts as toppings for added texture.

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 enjoyment. Here are some delicious options:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies

2. These classic treats are sweet and complement the rich flavors of hot chocolate wonderfully.

3. Marshmallow Fluff Brownies

4. Chewy brownies topped with fluffy marshmallow create a delightful contrast to your drink’s creaminess.

5. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

6. Sweet pretzels offer a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with warm beverages like hot chocolate.

7. Fruit Skewers

8. A mix of fresh fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the hot chocolate.

9. Cheesecake Bites

10. Mini cheesecake squares add a creamy layer of flavor that works well with cherry notes.

11. Banana Bread Slices

12. Moist banana bread brings a comforting sweetness that complements this cozy drink beautifully.

13. Rice Krispie Treats

14. These simple treats are easy to make and provide a light, crunchy snack alongside your hot beverage.

15. Brownie Bites

16. Small, fudgy brownie bites make for an indulgent pairing that enhances the chocolate experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your drink turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Stirring: Failing to stir the ingredients well can lead to chocolate clumps. Always mix everything thoroughly before cooking.
• Overcooking the Mixture: Cooking for too long can cause the chocolate to seize up. Stick to the recommended 2 hours on HIGH for optimal results.
• Using Low-Quality Chocolate: Using subpar chocolate chips can impact flavor. Choose high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best taste.
• Not Adjusting Sweetness: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste before serving and adjust sugar levels according to your preference.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping whipped cream and extra cherries misses an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. Always top off with these garnishes for a delightful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, transfer to an oven-safe bowl, and heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) in a microwave-safe container, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

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

Add flavors like vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?

You can use fresh cherries or even frozen cherries; just ensure they are pitted and chopped.

How can I make this drink richer?

Mix in a bit of heavy cream along with whole milk for an even creamier texture.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is a deliciously rich treat perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and toppings according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of chocolate and cherry flavors!