Nothing says cozy winter indulgence like a cup of creamy white hot chocolate infused with the sweet essence of candy canes. This delightful treat is perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply to warm up your soul.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and decadent drink. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate using your trusty slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (high-quality ones work best)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- A pinch of salt
- 3-4 regular-sized candy canes (crushed, for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Begin by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into your slow cooker.
- Add the white chocolate chips to the slow cooker. The white chocolate will be the primary source of sweetness, so adjust the amount according to your taste preference. You can add more for a sweeter hot chocolate or reduce it for a subtler sweetness.
- Add the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. The peppermint extract will give it the refreshing candy cane twist, so use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the drink.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Set the slow cooker to the LOW setting and cover it with the lid. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours. During this time, the white chocolate will melt, and the flavors will infuse into the milk and cream.
- While the hot chocolate is cooking, take the candy canes and crush them into small pieces using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and gently crushing them with a rolling pin.
- Once the hot chocolate is ready, give it a good stir to make sure everything is well blended. Taste it to check if the sweetness and peppermint flavor are to your liking. If needed, you can add a bit more white chocolate or peppermint extract.
- To serve, ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for that delightful festive touch.
- Serve the White Candy Cane White Hot Chocolate warm and enjoy the comforting flavors and the nostalgia of the holiday season in every sip.
This slow cooker white hot chocolate is sure to be a hit among family and friends, and it’s an excellent way to treat yourself during those chilly winter days. So, sit back, relax, and savor the deliciousness of this festive and heartwarming beverage. Happy sipping!