Slow cooker hot chocolate

After an active winter day outdoors sledding, skiing or playing ice hockey, nothing is cozier than snuggling in with a mug of hot chocolate. And this recipe is even better because you can make it ahead of time in a slow cooker, so it's ready when you arrive back home. Or bring it along to a potluck, buffet or family game night.

The best part? Cocoa contains flavonoids, which studies have shown may help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. So drink up and stay warm and cozy this winter.

Ingredients

• 2 cups half-and-half
• 6 cups 2% milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 12-ounce bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup sugar

Optional

• whipped topping
• 1 candy cane, crushed

Directions

1. Place half-and-half, milk, vanilla, chocolate chips, cocoa powder and sugar in a 4-quart (or larger) slow cooker set on low heat. Whisk ingredients to combine.
2. Cover and let cook for about one hour.
3. After mixture has cooked for one hour, whisk again, cover and cook for another 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
4. Garnish with whipped topping and crushed candy cane, if desired.
5. Serve warm.

Makes 10 servings