I love hot cocoa. I have a beautiful vegan version here if you don’t consume dairy and a pumpkin spiced version here if you want something more fall-themed!
Now, Christmas is approaching, so I thought, why not try a hot chocolate?
When the holiday season rolls around, I start craving it so bad!
Maybe it’s the twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon wafting through the house, or the fact that I can wrap myself in a blanket and sip something warm while watching Home Alone again.
This Christmas hot chocolate is extra special because it’s creamy, rich, and topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and of course, a peppermint candy cane for that festive touch.
It feels like Christmas in a cup.
I’m adding variations and substitutes at the bottom of the recipe.
Tips to Make It Extra Tasty:
- Use high-quality chocolate chips like Ghirardelli Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips for the richest flavor.
- For an ultra-creamy drink, froth the milk with a milk frother before mixing in the chocolate.
- Swap sugar for maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener twist.
- Add a splash of peppermint extract if you want an extra minty kick.
- Garnish with mini marshmallows or crushed peppermint for a more festive vibe.
Let’s get to the recipe!
The Best Hot Chocolate (Christmas Edition)
Course: BreakfastDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream for topping
Red and green sprinkles
2 peppermint candy canes
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally so the milk doesn’t scorch at the bottom.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined. Add the chocolate chips and continue stirring until they melt completely into the milk mixture, creating a smooth, creamy hot chocolate.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot chocolate into two large mugs. Top generously with whipped cream, add festive red and green sprinkles, and hang a candy cane over the edge of each mug. Serve immediately while it’s warm and cozy.
- Don’t boil the milk if you’re using nut milk – it will not hold and break.
Variations and Substitutes:
If you want a dairy-free version, substitute almond milk or oat milk with coconut cream for richness.
To make it vegan, just use dairy-free whipped cream and vegan chocolate chips.
For adults, a splash of Baileys, Kahlua, or peppermint schnapps can turn this into a fun holiday treat. If you prefer a spiced version, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the hot chocolate while it’s warming.
This Christmas hot chocolate is a treat that brings pure holiday joy in every sip.
It’s rich, creamy, and easy to customize depending on your mood.
Whether you enjoy it plain with just whipped cream or go all out with candy canes and sprinkles, it’s the kind of drink that makes the holidays extra magical.
Cozy up with this mug, turn on some Christmas tunes, and let the season wrap around you.
