This Christmas Hot Chocolate is warm and cozy, perfect for chilly nights. With rich cocoa and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s like a hug in a mug!
Add some marshmallows on top, and trust me, you’ll be grinning like a kid again! I love serving it with a cookie for the ultimate treat. 🍪❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This gives a creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, almond milk or oat milk works well too. Remember, less fat means it might not be as rich, but it will still taste great!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is essential here. You could use Dutch-process cocoa for a smoother flavor. If you have sweetened cocoa, reduce the sugar added in the recipe to balance it out.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These add a delicious chocolatey depth. If you’re dairy-free, use dark chocolate chips for more richness. You can also chop up a chocolate bar if you’re out of chips.
Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice adds that festive touch. If you want a twist, you can substitute with nutmeg or use a splash of peppermint extract for a minty kick!
How Can I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate is Extra Creamy?
The key to a luxuriously creamy hot chocolate is in the mixing! First, whisk the dry ingredients with just a bit of milk to form a paste. This prevents lumps when adding the rest of the milk. Stir continuously over medium heat and don’t rush it!
- Start with a whisk to combine cocoa and sugar. It’s essential to avoid dry lumps.
- Warm the milk slowly and stir often to incorporate all the flavors. This makes a huge difference!
- Mix in chocolate chips when the milk is steaming to ensure they melt completely.
Christmas Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Rainbow sprinkles, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightfully cozy Christmas hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooking. It’s a quick festive treat to whip up and perfect for enjoying while decorating the tree or wrapping gifts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed. This will create a nice base for your hot chocolate.
2. Make a Smooth Paste:
Add about 2 tablespoons of the milk into the dry mixture and whisk it together until you form a smooth paste. This step is important to avoid any lumps in your hot chocolate!
3. Add the Remaining Milk:
Now slowly add the rest of the milk while whisking continuously. Make sure to do this gradually to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
4. Heat the Mixture:
Place your saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as you warm the mixture until it starts to steam, but be careful not to let it boil. We want it hot but not bubbling!
5. Melt the Chocolate:
Once warmed, add the chocolate chips and keep stirring until they melt completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
6. Add Flavor:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your hot chocolate.
7. Pour and Top:
Pour your hot chocolate into a festive mug. Go wild with toppings by adding a generous amount of whipped cream and a handful of mini marshmallows on top.
8. Garnish:
Finish it off with a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles for that extra festive touch. Who doesn’t love a bit of color on their holiday drink?
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Christmas hot chocolate immediately, sit back, and enjoy this cozy treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Hot Chocolate?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice can be used. Just keep in mind that it might alter the creaminess slightly, so choose a thicker variety like oat milk for the best results.
How Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, let the hot chocolate cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving again.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Just follow the recipe up to the point of adding the vanilla extract, then cool and store. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the vanilla for that fresh flavor.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can use crushed peppermint candies, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a more adult twist, add a splash of your favorite liqueur!