Description

This festive Christmas Hot Chocolate recipe is a rich and creamy beverage perfect for warming up on a cold winter day. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, and melted semi-sweet chocolate, it’s infused with cinnamon and vanilla for extra warmth and flavor. Topped with whipped cream and festive peppermint garnishes, this drink is a holiday favorite for cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar)
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp salt
½ tsp pure vanilla extract

Toppings and Garnishes

Whipped cream
Crushed peppermint candies
Cinnamon sticks (optional)
Peppermint candy or mini candy canes for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream. Warm the mixture until it is steaming but not boiling, ensuring it doesn’t scorch on the bottom.
Add the Chocolate Goodness: Whisk in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Add Flavor: Stir in the ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Let the hot chocolate simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking occasionally to blend the flavors well.
Taste and Adjust: Sample the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your liking by adding more sugar or cinnamon if needed.
Serve It Up: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and a cinnamon stick if desired. Garnish with peppermint candy or a mini candy cane for a festive holiday touch.

Notes

You can substitute milk alternatives such as oat or almond milk, but the drink will be less rich.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate.
Adjust sugar quantity according to your preferred level of sweetness.
To avoid burning the milk, heat slowly and stir frequently.
The recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on serving size needs.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 large mug (about 1 cup)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg