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 gatherings, cold nights, or simply indulging in a warm drink. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this hot chocolate will surely warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a rich taste that feels like dessert in a cup.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a comforting drink at home or impress guests at parties with its unique flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, movie nights, or chilly evenings spent by the fire.
- Kid-Friendly Delight: A favorite among children and adults alike, making it a hit at family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while enhancing flavors over time.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your hot chocolate.
- Mixing spoon: A good mixing spoon ensures all ingredients blend well together for an even flavor throughout.
- Whisk: While optional, a whisk can help combine ingredients more thoroughly if needed.

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
- Add the whole milk, chocolate chips, the entire jar of cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar into your slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 2: Cook on High
- Set your slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 2 hours. This high heat allows the cherry flavor to develop beautifully within the hot chocolate.
Step 3: Serve Up Your Creation
- After cooking time is complete, give your hot chocolate a good stir again before serving.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish. Enjoy your delightful treat!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate
Serving Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is all about creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This rich drink pairs beautifully with various toppings and side treats, making it perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in.
With Whipped Cream
- Top your hot chocolate generously with whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Drizzle some cherry juice over the whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
Garnished with Cherries
- Add extra maraschino cherries on top for a burst of flavor and color.
- Use whole cherries or halved ones, depending on your preference.
With Chocolate Shavings
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for an elegant touch.
- Use semi-sweet chocolate for a complementary flavor profile.
In Festive Mugs
- Serve the hot chocolate in colorful or themed mugs to enhance the festive feel.
- Consider using mugs with fun designs, especially during holidays or special occasions.
Accompanied by Biscotti
- Pair the hot chocolate with crunchy biscotti for a delightful texture contrast.
- Choose flavors like almond or chocolate to enhance the experience.
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, follow these helpful tips. A few simple adjustments can elevate this cozy drink even further.
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for premium semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before serving and adjust sugar levels according to your preference.
- Experiment with Milk Alternatives: For a different texture, try using almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Add Flavor Variations: Include a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra depth in flavor.
- Keep it Warm: If you’re serving it at a party, keep the slow cooker on warm to maintain temperature without overcooking.
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 delicious options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic cookies pair well with hot chocolate’s rich flavors. Bake them fresh or grab them from your favorite bakery.
- Mini Marshmallows: Offer mini marshmallows as an optional topping to add sweetness and fluffiness.
- Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy drink. Use strawberries, bananas, and pineapple.
- Cream Cheese Brownies: Rich and fudgy brownies are perfect alongside hot chocolate. Their creamy texture complements the drink nicely.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can balance out the sweetness of your hot chocolate. Include crackers and fruits for variety.
- Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized treats deliver a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cherry notes in your drink.
- Scones: Fluffy scones, especially those flavored with berries or chocolate chips, make an excellent accompaniment.
- Caramel Corn: Sweet and salty caramel corn adds an enjoyable crunch and balances out the drink’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of chocolate – Semi-sweet chocolate chips are essential for the perfect balance of sweetness. Other types may alter the flavor.
- Not stirring enough – Failing to stir well can leave chocolate clumps in your hot chocolate. Make sure to mix thoroughly before cooking.
- Ignoring cooking time – Cooking on HIGH for the full 2 hours ensures deep flavor infusion. Don’t rush it by checking too often.
- Forgetting to reserve cherries for garnish – It’s easy to overlook garnishing. Set aside some cherries before blending them in for a beautiful presentation.
- Skipping the whipped cream – Whipped cream adds a delightful finish and extra creaminess. Don’t skip this step for the ultimate experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Timeframe: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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- Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate
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- Timeframe: Freeze for up to 2 months.
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- Container: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate
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- Oven – Preheat to a low temperature (around 250°F) and heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
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- Microwave – Heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring between each session until hot.
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- Stovetop – Gently reheat over medium-low heat, stirring consistently until warmed through.
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 substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or any other non-dairy milk for a different flavor profile.
How can I customize my Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate?
Feel free to add flavors like vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist that suits your taste.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! This recipe serves 8, making it perfect for parties or family get-togethers.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw them and adjust the juice as needed.
How long does this hot chocolate stay fresh?
When stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy during colder months. Its rich flavor pairs perfectly with whipped cream and garnished cherries, making it not only delicious but also visually stunning. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a cozy favorite!
Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate
Indulge in the velvety richness of our Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, the ultimate cozy drink perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. This luscious beverage combines the deep flavors of semi-sweet chocolate with the sweet-tart essence of cherries, creating a delightful treat for all ages. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this hot chocolate is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Easy to prepare in a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while you enjoy quality time with friends and family. Don’t forget to top it off with whipped cream and extra cherries for an irresistible presentation!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 cups 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- ½ gallon whole milk
- 11 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 oz. jar maraschino cherries (juice included)
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup sugar
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine whole milk, chocolate chips, maraschino cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar.
- Stir well to blend all ingredients.
- Set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 2 hours.
- Once cooked, stir again and serve in mugs topped with whipped cream and additional cherries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg