This cozy white hot chocolate is like a warm hug in a mug! Made with creamy milk and sweet white chocolate, it’s rich and deliciously smooth.
Top it with fluffy whipped cream and maybe some sprinkles for fun! On chilly days, I love sipping on this treat while snuggling up with a good book. ☕💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich, creamy texture, but you can easily use any milk, like almond, oat, or skim milk for a lighter option. I find using oat milk adds a nice natural sweetness!
White Chocolate: For the best flavor, I prefer high-quality white chocolate chips. If you need a dairy-free option, choose vegan white chocolate chips, which work just as well in this recipe!
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the flavor of the chocolate. If you don’t have vanilla extract, a touch of almond extract can give a unique twist!
Whipped Cream: While store-bought whipped cream is convenient, homemade whipped cream is so easy to make and tastes better. Just whip some heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form.
Peppermint Candy: Crushed candy canes give a festive touch. If you can’t find them, flavored syrups or peppermint extract can also work nicely!
How Do You Make Sure Your White Hot Chocolate Is Smooth?
To keep your white hot chocolate creamy and smooth, it’s crucial to heat the milk gently. If you bring it to a boil, it could scorch, leading to a less-than-pleasant flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat and stir frequently as the milk warms up.
- Once the milk is warm (not boiling), add white chocolate chips and whisk until fully melted.
- Try not to let the mixture sit without stirring, as this can lead to lumps.
By following these steps, your white hot chocolate will be wonderfully velvety every time! Enjoy this simple and comforting drink!
How to Make White Hot Chocolate with Peppermint
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional), for sprinkling
Time Estimate:
This delicious white hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a cozy afternoon or a cold winter evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk. Turn the heat to medium and gently warm the milk. You want it to be warm but not boiling—this usually takes just a few minutes, so keep an eye on it!
2. Add the White Chocolate:
Once the milk is warm, add the white chocolate chips. Use a whisk to stir continuously. Keep whisking until the chocolate completely melts and blends into the milk, creating a smooth mixture. This should only take a couple of minutes!
3. Stir in the Flavors:
Now it’s time to add the delicious vanilla extract. Stir it in gently to combine it with the chocolatey goodness.
4. Serve It Up:
Carefully pour the warm white hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. If you have a ladle, it works well for this part!
5. Top It Off:
Now for the fun part! Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each mug. Follow it up with some mini marshmallows for an extra treat!
6. Sprinkle for Extra Charm:
Sprinkle those crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top for a festive touch. If you like, you can also add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy spice boost!
7. Enjoy Your Treat:
Serve your delicious white hot chocolate immediately and enjoy the warmth and sweetness. Perfect for sharing with friends or just indulging by yourself!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Non-dairy milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, can be used instead of whole milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly based on your choice.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Extra Creamy?
For an ultra-creamy texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the milk. This will enhance the richness and make it feel even more indulgent!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have White Chocolate Chips?
If you don’t have white chocolate chips, you can chop up a white chocolate bar to use instead. Alternatively, you could try using white chocolate cocoa powder, but the flavor will be slightly different.
How Should I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
Any leftover white hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to smooth out any lumps. You can add a splash of milk if it thickens up too much!
