The weather is cooling off and snow is in the forecast (eek!), which means that we are getting into the cozy season. Hot chocolate always seems perfect at this time of year and I get kind of excited trying to come up with occasions to put together a hot chocolate bar or buffet. We’ve done these at a few different gatherings and it’s a fun addition to winter parties.
I love using crock pots for gatherings because whatever is in there is ready to go without needing any attention in the middle of the party. They are great for having a big batch of hot chocolate ready for a group.
Here are a couple of simple hot chocolate recipes that we like:
- Hot Chocolate: In a crock pot, mix together 5 cups milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 tsp vanilla, and 2 cups chocolate chips.
- White Hot Chocolate: In a crock pot, mix together 5 cups milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 tsp vanilla, and 2 cups white chocolate chips.
Both of these need to warm for about 2 hours before guests arrive (keep your crock pot on low). Once the chocolate chips are melted, I would switch to a keep warm mode, so it doesn’t get too hot. Other than an occasional stir, though, it doesn’t really need much attention after that. These recipes are also really flexible and you can adjust them if you want more or less rich. I have used all types of milk from non-fat to whole. I have also used just milk instead of the whipping cream. You can also make it ever richer by adding a can sweetened condensed milk.
Then just set our your toppings and add-ins. Things like: Coffee, Redi Whip, Candy Canes, Sprinkles, Caramel Syrup, Chocolate syrup, Marshmallows (different sizes, different flavors), Pirouline Cookies, Chocolate chips, cinnamon candies, etc.
For the grownups: Frangelico, Kahlua, Peppermint Schnapps, and Bourbon
What other toppings would you add to your hot chocolate buffet?
The Mom Plus 