Warm up with rich and creamy white hot chocolate, the perfect cozy treat for chilly days. This simple recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a sweet and comforting drink this season!
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There's nothing quite like curling up with a warm drink on a chilly day, and white hot chocolate has quickly become one of my go-to comforts. I used to head to Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, or Tim Hortons to enjoy this creamy, rich drink. But, making it at home turned out to be so much easier (and better) than I imagined. It's a fraction of the cost, and I can control the sweetness and flavors to make it exactly how I like it.
This homemade version is easily customized. You can whip up a classic version or dress it up with whipped cream, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel if you're feeling fancy. It's the kind of treat that's perfect for quiet mornings, cozy movie nights, or even as a festive addition to a holiday gathering. Plus, when you make it at home, you avoid the overly sweet versions that some coffee shops serve.
If you've never made a hot chocolate with white chocolate, don't worry. It's surprisingly simple and only takes a few ingredients. Whether you're a fan of the versions you've tried at your favorite coffee spots or you're just looking for something new to warm you up this season, this recipe is a keeper. Once you try it, you might just ditch those coffee shop drinks for good.
Ingredients
Every ingredient, from the smooth base of whole milk to the decadent white chocolate, adds its own touch of warmth and comfort. Optional garnishes can also make it extra special for any occasion.
- Whole Milk: Provides a creamy and smooth base for the hot chocolate, giving it a rich and comforting texture.
- White Chocolate Bar: Melts beautifully into the milk for a decadent sweetness and authentic white chocolate flavor.
- Double Cream or Heavy Whipping Cream: Enhances the richness and thickness, making the drink feel luxurious.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor and complements the sweetness of the white chocolate.
- Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the flavors of the chocolate and vanilla.
- Mini Marshmallows (Optional Garnish): Adds a fun, nostalgic touch and an extra layer of sweetness.
- White Chocolate Shavings (Optional Garnish): Elevates presentation while reinforcing the white chocolate flavor.
Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.
Instructions
Making this white hot chocolate recipe is incredibly simple and takes just a few steps. With a handful of ingredients and a little time on the stove, you'll have a warm and cozy drink ready to enjoy. Just follow these simple directions to whip up your own creamy treat.
In a small saucepan, pour milk, add the white chocolate pieces, and salt.
Turn on the stovetop to low heat (140°F / 60°C). Stir until the white chocolate has completely melted.
Keep stirring for about 5 minutes. Pour vanilla and stir until well-combined with the white chocolate mixture.
Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream until well combined.
Allow the white hot chocolate to cool for 1 minute then transfer to a serving glass. Serve as is or top with mini marshmallows and white chocolate shavings.
Hint: heat the mixture over low to medium heat and stir constantly to prevent the white chocolate from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
Variations
Here are some easy ways to customize this white hot chocolate recipe:
- Add a Flavor Boost: Stir in a dash of peppermint extract, almond extract, or cinnamon for a change of taste.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg or chili powder for added warmth and complexity. Check out my Mexican hot chocolate for ideas.
- Swap the Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option or to introduce a subtle new flavor.
- Top It Off: Garnish with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or colorful sprinkles to make it extra festive.
- Turn It Into a Mocha: Add a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee for a cozy coffeehouse-style treat.
Tips
Top tip: Use high-quality white chocolate. Choose a white chocolate bar over chips for a smoother and creamier result, as chips often contain stabilizers.
- Heat Slowly: Keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent the milk or chocolate from scorching.
- Whisk for Creaminess: Whisk the mixture while heating to ensure the ingredients blend evenly and create a velvety texture.
- Don't Boil: Avoid boiling the mixture, as it can affect the texture and flavor of the drink.
- Serve Immediately: White hot chocolate tastes best fresh and warm, so enjoy it as soon as it's ready.
Serving suggestions
This white chocolate hot chocolate is perfect for serving on chilly evenings or during festive gatherings. For an elegant touch, pour it into your favorite mugs or heatproof glasses and top it with mini marshmallows for a classic finish. If you're hosting, arrange a topping station with whipped cream, sprinkles, and chocolate shavings so everyone can customize their drink to their liking.
For a more decadent experience, garnish each mug with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. Pair your white hot chocolate with cookies, biscotti, or even blueberry muffins to make it part of a brunch spread. This rich and creamy drink also makes a thoughtful pairing with lighter desserts like fresh berries in Pavlova nests to balance the flavors.
When serving during the holidays, add peppermint sticks or crushed candy canes as a garnish. You can also serve it in small mugs or shot glasses for a mini dessert option that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
Storage
To store homemade white hot chocolate, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or a large mason jar. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the milk or cream from scorching. Alternatively, you can warm it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one to ensure even heating. If the texture thickens after refrigeration, simply whisk in a splash of milk while reheating to restore its smooth and creamy consistency.
FAQs
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with non-dairy options such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just be sure to choose one that complements the rich, creamy texture of the drink, and keep in mind that some non-dairy milks may alter the flavor slightly.
While you can use white chocolate chips, a white chocolate bar often melts more smoothly and provides a richer, more consistent texture. If using chips, make sure to melt them carefully to avoid clumping, and you may need to adjust the quantity for the desired sweetness and thickness.
To adjust the sweetness, you can add more or less sugar to taste. If it's too sweet, you can also balance it out by adding a pinch of salt or a small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder. For a richer flavor without added sweetness, consider using a higher-quality white chocolate bar.
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Recipe
White Hot Chocolate Starbucks Copycat
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 75 grams white chocolate bar divided in sections
- 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream or double cream
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Optional Garnishes:
- mini marshmallows
- white chocolate shavings from one section of the white chocolate bar
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, pour milk, add the white chocolate pieces, and salt.
- Turn on the stovetop to low heat (140°F / 60°C) and stir until the white chocolate has completely melted, keep stirring for about 5 minutes.
- Pour vanilla and stir until well-combined with the white chocolate mixture.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Allow the white hot chocolate to cool for 1 minute then transfer to a serving glass.
- Serve as is or top with mini marshmallows and white chocolate shavings.
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