I’ll never forget the first time my kitchen filled with the sweet, minty, chocolatey aroma of this slow cooker creation. It was a chilly afternoon, and I wanted a hot chocolate that felt like a festive, cozy hug—something whimsical and shareable. This Grinch-inspired drink was the perfect answer. The moment I saw the green swirls mixing with the white chocolate, I knew I’d stumbled onto something magical. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a mood-lifting, heart-growing experience that always brings a smile to my friends’ faces, just like the Grinch’s own heart on Christmas morning.
Ingredients
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 6 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- ½ tsp vegetable oil
- Green gel food coloring
- Mini marshmallows, for garnish
- Whipped topping, sprinkles, and candy hearts, for garnish
Now, let’s talk ingredients. Trust me, the white chocolate chips are non-negotiable for that signature creamy, sweet base—I tried a bar chopped up once, and the chips just melt more evenly. The sweetened condensed milk is the secret wizard behind the luxuriously thick texture; don’t even think about skipping it. For the peppermint extract, use pure extract, not flavoring oil, for the best taste. And about that green gel food coloring: gel is key. I learned the hard way that liquid food coloring can thin the mixture slightly and won’t give you that vibrant, Grinchy green hue we’re after.
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart or larger slow cooker
- Ladle
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mugs for serving
You really don’t need much for this recipe, which is part of its beauty. A 6-quart slow cooker is my go-to because it gives everything room to mingle without bubbling over. I’ve tried a 4-quart in a pinch, and it works, but you have to watch it much more closely. A good whisk is your best friend here for integrating the food coloring smoothly. And a sturdy ladle makes serving a breeze, especially when you’re trying not to drip that gorgeous green elixir everywhere. It’s the kind of simple setup that lets you focus on the fun part: the decorating.
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