Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate

Slow cookers are one of the hardest working tools in the kitchen. We call on them for making everything from warm winter soups and hearty barbecue pork to party-worthy desserts. They're not only ideal for preparing weeknight dinners but also for whipping up festive beverages like hot chocolate.Take a break from microwavable instant mixes, and treat yourself to a rich homemade version of this winter drink. Everyone will want another cup of this Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate. Whole milk and half-and-half make it ultracreamy, while the addition of dark chocolate chips amp up the chocolatey richness. Pour yourself a warm mug filled with this delicious treat, and garnish it with pieces of crushed hard peppermint candies and a handful of miniature marshmallows. Kick things up a notch with an optional shot or two of peppermint schnapps.