The colder weather is here, and for me, that means it’s time for warm, cozy drinks. There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug on a chilly afternoon. I love making hot chocolate at home because you can make it just the way you like it.
Today, I am sharing two of my favorite hot chocolate recipes that are perfect for this time of year. Get ready to enjoy some comforting sips!
Jump to Recipe:
Christmas Hot Chocolate for Cozy Winter Sips
When it’s cold outside, a warm drink is just what you need. This Christmas Hot Chocolate is rich, comforting, and tastes like the holidays in a mug.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Good Quality Chocolate: Using real chocolate chunks or high-quality chips makes a big difference in flavor and creaminess. Don’t skip this step for the best taste.
- Gentle Heat: Don’t boil the milk too vigorously. Low to medium heat helps prevent scorching and keeps your hot chocolate smooth and delicious.
What You Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- Optional: whipped cream, mini marshmallows, candy canes for serving
⏱️ Time: 10 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Heat the Milk Base
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk everything together until there are no lumps from the cocoa. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring often, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract. Let it sit for about 1 minute, then whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Serve Warm
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or a candy cane if you like. Serve right away and enjoy the warmth.
📝 Final Note
For an extra festive touch, add a tiny splash of peppermint extract with the vanilla. This gives it a nice holiday flavor.
Easy Cinnamon Bun White Hot Chocolate Drink
If you love cinnamon buns, you’ll adore this drink. This white hot chocolate brings all those warm, sweet cinnamon flavors into a creamy mug, perfect for a treat.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- White Chocolate Quality: Use good quality white chocolate chips or a chopped bar for the best melting and flavor. Cheaper white chocolate might not melt as smoothly.
- Cinnamon Infusion: Let the cinnamon warm gently with the milk to really get that fragrant spice into your drink. This helps the flavors blend well.
What You Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 ounces good quality white chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: whipped cream, extra cinnamon for topping
⏱️ Time: 12 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Warm the Milk and Spices
In a saucepan, combine milk, white chocolate, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the white chocolate melts and the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Simmer
Once smooth, stir in the vanilla extract. Continue to gently heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to mix well. This step helps the cinnamon flavor to really come through.
Step 3: Pour and Enjoy
Remove from heat and pour into your favorite mugs. If you like, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra ground cinnamon. Serve immediately.
📝 Final Note
This drink is extra comforting with a real cinnamon stick garnish for aroma. It also looks very pretty!