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Polar Express Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.1 from 296 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

Experience the ultimate cozy treat with this Polar Express Hot Chocolate recipe. Made rich and creamy in a slow cooker using heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and semi-sweet chocolate, this indulgent hot chocolate is perfect for holiday gatherings or chilly nights. Topped with classic marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and candy canes, it’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Hot Chocolate Base

  • 4 cups heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate baking bar, finely chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract

Toppings (Optional)

  • Marshmallows
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate syrup
  • Candy canes, crushed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cocoa Mixture: Add half of the heavy cream to the slow cooker. Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder thoroughly. This step requires a few minutes of whisking to fully incorporate the cocoa powder into the cream, ensuring a smooth base without lumps.
  2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the remaining heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined to start the melting process of the chocolate and blend all flavors together.
  3. Slow Cook the Hot Chocolate: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 3 hours. Stir the mixture every 20 minutes or so to prevent settling and ensure the chocolate fully melts and combines with the liquids, resulting in a rich, creamy hot chocolate.
  4. Keep Warm and Adjust Consistency: After cooking, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting for up to 3 hours, perfect for serving. If the hot chocolate thickens too much while warm, gently stir in additional milk until your desired consistency is reached.
  5. Serve with Toppings: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and crushed candy canes for a festive, delicious finish.

Notes

  • Stirring every 20 minutes during cooking helps prevent scorching and ensures even melting of the chocolate.
  • The toppings are optional but add a festive touch and extra flavor to the hot chocolate experience.
  • You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sweetened condensed milk or adding sugar if preferred.
  • The thickness of the hot chocolate can be customized by adding more milk to thin it or cooking longer to thicken it.
  • To keep the hot chocolate warm for extended periods, keep it on the warm setting and stir occasionally.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://mysimpledish.com/polar-express-hot-chocolate-recipe/