Can you make hot chocolate in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Using a slow cooker makes the process nearly effortless. Because it heats slowly and evenly, the ingredients melt and mix perfectly. Furthermore, it keeps your drink warm for hours, making it ideal for gatherings or relaxing evenings.

Does peanut butter dissolve in hot milk?

Yes, it does! Especially when added early and stirred often. The fat in the peanut butter softens, melts, and blends into the warm milk. Although some textures may remain, they disappear with proper whisking.

Why does peanut butter and chocolate go so well together?

Because peanut butter is salty and creamy while chocolate is sweet and bitter, they contrast and complement one another. Accordingly, this flavor pairing hits multiple taste points at once. Notably, the fats in peanut butter also help carry and enhance chocolate’s richness.

Can you store leftovers?

Certainly! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the stovetop and stir frequently. Add a little extra milk to loosen the texture, and you’re good to go.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

You can, but the drink won’t be as smooth. Crunchy peanut butter gives some texture, which some people enjoy. However, if you want a silky finish, stick to creamy peanut butter.

What milk is best for this recipe?

Whole milk offers the richest texture. Although you can use almond, oat, or coconut milk, they’ll slightly alter the flavor. For a non-dairy but creamy result, oat milk is the best alternative.

Definitely! Kids love the nutty flavor, and the drink isn’t too sweet. Just skip any spicy or coffee-based variations. Additionally, setting up a DIY topping bar makes it even more fun.

Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Try It Today

Description

This Slow Cooker Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink—rich, creamy, and bursting with chocolate-peanut butter flavor. It’s the perfect hands-off treat for chilly nights or festive gatherings. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker, stir occasionally, and let the magic happen. It’s silky-smooth, indulgent, and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

4 cups whole milk (use almond or oat milk for dairy-free option)
1 cup heavy cream (optional, adds extra richness)
½ cup creamy peanut butter (chunky works too for texture)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended for deeper flavor)
1 cup chocolate chips (dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate)
⅓ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Start with the base: Pour the milk and heavy cream into your slow cooker.
Add chocolate: Sprinkle in the cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
Sweeten it up: Stir in the sugar and a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Whisk in peanut butter: Use a whisk or fork to blend the peanut butter into the mixture as best you can.
Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring every 30–45 minutes to ensure even melting and prevent sticking.
Finish with vanilla: Once the mixture is smooth and steamy, stir in the vanilla extract.

Serve warm: Switch the slow cooker to keep warm, serve in mugs, and garnish with marshmallows, whipped cream, or a peanut butter drizzle if desired.

Notes

For a vegan version, use dairy-free milk and skip the cream or replace it with coconut cream.
You can make it ahead and reheat gently on the stove or keep it warm in the slow cooker.
Want a boozy twist? Add a splash of Bailey’s or peanut butter whiskey just before serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 320 per serving
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 7g