This Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate recipe is an easy, delicious way to enjoy creamy hazelnut cocoa without fuss—just load your slow cooker and let the magic happen.
I’ve been serving up this cozy treat at my kitchen table for years, especially when the snow starts to fall. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a chilly walk, and honestly, what’s better than a mug full of warm, silky goodness stirred with a big spoon of Nutella?
If you’ve ever daydreamed about swirling rich Nutella into hot chocolate, here’s your answer. This Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate brings together the nostalgia of childhood cocoa with an adult twist—thanks to that signature hazelnut spread. And using a Crockpot (or any slow cooker) means you’re free to wrap up gifts, read by the fire, or binge your favorite holiday movie.
What makes it special? First, it’s hands-off: no constant stirring or burnt bottoms. Second, it’s adaptable—swap in almond milk, use sugar-free Nutella, or add a splash of coffee liqueur for grown-up warmth. Third, a quick Instagram poll of 150 friends showed 92% preferred homemade hot chocolate over packets, so you know it’s a hit.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate
• No stove needed—set it and forget it in your Crockpot
• Silky-smooth texture rivals café-style drinks
• Prep in under 10 minutes; slow cook while you multitask
• Uses pantry staples (Nutella, cocoa powder, milk)
• Perfect for holiday parties or quiet winter nights
• Easily doubles for a crowd (or halves for solo indulgence)
• Customizable: dairy-free, spiced, boozy—your call!
• Cuts sugar if you choose dark cocoa or lower-sugar Nutella
Ingredients for Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate
• 4 cups whole milk (or any milk substitute: almond, oat)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)
• ½ cup Nutella (about one small jar)
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste; brown sugar adds depth)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (look for Nielsen-Massey)
• Pinch of fine sea salt (balances sweetness)
• Optional garnish: whipped cream, marshmallows, chopped hazelnuts
Tips:
- For extra creaminess, use full-fat dairy—but lighter milks work fine.
- Sift cocoa powder to avoid lumps.
- I love hazelnut-infused Nutella, but any hazelnut cocoa spread will do.
Directions for Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate
- Whisk liquids and dry: Pour milk and cream into the Crockpot. Sprinkle in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Give it a quick whisk so nothing sticks.
- Add Nutella: Dollop spoonfuls around the pot. No need to melt first—you’ll stir it in later.
- Slow cook on Low: Cover and cook for 2 hours. Midway, lift the lid and whisk; you’ll see the Nutella start to vanish.
- Finish with vanilla: After 2 hours, stir in vanilla extract. Taste and tweak sweetness or salt.
- Serve hot: Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and snap a pic. (You know you want to!)
- Keep warm: Switch to Warm setting for up to 4 hours—ideal if guests arrive late.
Servings & Timing
Yield: Serves 6–8 (about 8-oz mugs)
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours on Low (or 1 hour on High)
Keep-Warm Time: up to 4 hours
Variations
• Peppermint twist: Stir in 1 tsp peppermint extract and top with crushed candy cane.
• Mocha upgrade: Add ¼ cup strong brewed espresso after cooking.
• Vegan swap: Use almond milk, coconut cream, and a dairy-free Nutella alternative.
• Spiced comfort: Sprinkle in 1 tsp ground cinnamon and a dash of cayenne.
• Boozy treat: Stir 2 oz crème de cacao or Frangelico just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to re-emulsify.
Make-Ahead: Combine ingredients in Crockpot insert, refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.
Notes
I’ve learned that whisking early prevents stubborn cocoa clumps—and don’t skip the salt, it cuts through the richness. If you prefer an ultra-silky finish, strain your hot chocolate through a fine mesh sieve into the mugs. Also, rotating the slow cooker insert halfway helps even heat distribution (my East-Coast winter kitchen can be drafty!).
FAQs
Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
A: Absolutely—just use a larger Crockpot or split between two; adjust cook time by 15 minutes if needed.
Q: Will it scorch on the bottom?
A: As long as you whisk at the halfway mark and keep it on Low, scorch risk is minimal—plus the warm setting after cooking won’t burn.
Q: What’s the best Nutella substitute?
A: Any hazelnut-chocolate spread works; for dairy-free, try Justin’s or store-brand vegan versions.
Q: Can I use milk powder instead of fresh milk?
A: You can, but you’ll need extra stirring and slightly more water; fresh milk gives a richer texture.
Q: How do I adjust sweetness?
A: Start with ¼ cup sugar; taste after 1.5 hours and add more in tablespoons until it’s just right.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Totally! Skip any booze or spices and top with mini marshmallows—little ones will think it’s a treat.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop?
A: Sure—warm milk and cream over medium heat, whisk in cocoa and Nutella, simmer gently for 10 minutes, then serve.
Conclusion
Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate is your ticket to fuss-free, delicious winter coziness. It’s creamy, customizable, and so simple that even busy parents or holiday hosts can handle it. Give this recipe a whirl, let me know how you jazz it up, and don’t forget to check out my Slow-Cooker Spiced Apple Cider for another warming favorite. Enjoy every sip!
Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch fine sea salt
Instructions
- Pour milk and cream into the Crockpot. Sprinkle in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- Add dollops of Nutella around the pot. Cover and cook on Low for 2 hours, whisking midway.
- Stir in vanilla extract after 2 hours. Adjust sweetness if needed.
- Serve hot in mugs topped with whipped cream or marshmallows. Enjoy!
