Crockpot Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

This Crockpot Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is a creamy holiday drink made with white chocolate, whole milk, half-and-half, and a touch of peppermint. The slow cooker gently melts everything together, then keeps it warm for guests to enjoy. Top each mug with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a festive finish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: About 2 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White chocolate makes it smooth, creamy, and sweet
The slow cooker keeps the hot chocolate warm for serving
Peppermint gives it a refreshing holiday flavor
Easy to prepare with a few simple ingredients
Whipped cream and crushed candy canes make a festive topping

Ingredients

6 cups whole milk
2 cups half-and-half
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups white chocolate chips
½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, plus more for topping
½ teaspoon peppermint extract, optional
Whipped cream, for serving

How to Make Crockpot Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Add the Ingredients to the Crockpot

Pour the whole milk, half-and-half, and heavy cream into a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Add the white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2: Cook on Low

Cover and cook on Low for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. The hot chocolate is ready when the white chocolate has melted and the mixture is hot and smooth.

Avoid letting it boil, since high heat can scorch the dairy or make the chocolate grainy.

Step 3: Add Peppermint Extract

If you want a stronger peppermint flavor, stir in the peppermint extract after the chocolate has melted. Start with ½ teaspoon, taste, and add a little more only if desired.

Step 4: Keep Warm

Set the slow cooker to Warm for serving. Stir occasionally so the melted chocolate stays evenly mixed.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Add whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint just before serving.

Tips for the Best Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Cook on Low and stir regularly to help the chocolate melt smoothly.
Use good-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
Add peppermint extract gradually; a little goes a long way.
If the drink tastes too sweet, stir in a splash of warm milk.
Add the whipped cream and crushed candy cane to each mug just before serving.
Keep the crockpot on Warm and stir occasionally while guests serve themselves.

Easy Variations

Make It Less Sweet

Use 1½ cups white chocolate chips instead of 2 cups, or replace some of the whole milk with additional half-and-half for a less sweet, richer drink.

Add Vanilla

Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after the white chocolate has melted for a softer, rounded flavor.

Make It Extra Pepperminty

Add a little more crushed candy cane to the crockpot or increase the peppermint extract by ⅛ teaspoon at a time. Taste as you go to keep the peppermint from becoming overpowering.

Make a Smaller Batch

Halve all the ingredients and cook in a smaller slow cooker. Begin checking after about 1½ hours, stirring regularly until the chocolate is melted.

Make-Ahead and Storage

For an easy start, measure the milk, half-and-half, and cream ahead of time and refrigerate them in a covered container. Add the liquids, white chocolate, and crushed peppermint to the crockpot shortly before cooking.

Refrigerate leftover hot chocolate in a covered container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring often. Whisk in a little milk if it has thickened. Add fresh whipped cream and crushed peppermint when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook this on High?

Low heat is best for melting white chocolate gently. If you’re short on time, cook on High while stirring often and check after about an hour. Switch the cooker to Warm as soon as the chocolate has melted.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed candy canes?

Yes. You can omit the crushed candy from the drink and use peppermint extract for flavor. Add it a little at a time, then use crushed candy cane as a garnish if you like.

Why is my hot chocolate too thick?

White chocolate can make the drink thicken as it cools. Stir in warm milk a little at a time until it reaches the consistency you prefer.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

You can, but it will become a regular peppermint hot chocolate rather than a white hot chocolate. Use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a less sweet version.

How long can I keep it warm in the slow cooker?

Keep it on Warm while serving and stir occasionally. For the smoothest texture, serve it within a few hours.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is a cozy, festive drink for holiday gatherings. Let the slow cooker melt the white chocolate gently, keep the finished drink warm, and serve each mug with whipped cream and crushed peppermint.