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White Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.9 from 110 reviews

Indulge in the creamy decadence of this White Hot Chocolate recipe, featuring melted white chocolate and a hint of vanilla for a luxuriously smooth and sweet beverage. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s topped with whipped cream and optional festive garnishes like cinnamon or peppermint, making each cup a cozy treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups whole milk (or your favorite dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk)
  • 8 oz white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate bars; Ghirardelli works wonders)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional but adds extra richness)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (Madagascar vanilla recommended)
  • Pinch fine sea salt (balances the sweetness)

Toppings and Garnishes

  • Whipped cream for topping (homemade or store-bought)
  • Optional garnishes: ground cinnamon, crushed peppermint, white chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Heat the milk and cream: Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until tiny bubbles form at the edges without boiling. Stir gently to maintain a smooth texture.
  2. Melt the white chocolate: Lower the heat, then add the white chocolate chips to the warm milk mixture. Whisk continuously to melt the chocolate evenly and prevent it from scorching on the bottom.
  3. Add vanilla and salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the pure vanilla extract and a pinch of fine sea salt. Taste the mixture to ensure a sweet, silky balance.
  4. Serve the hot chocolate: Divide the white hot chocolate evenly among mugs.
  5. Add toppings and garnish: Top each cup with a large dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle with your choice of cinnamon, crushed peppermint, or white chocolate shavings for an extra festive touch. Enjoy your cozy drink wrapped in a blanket.

Notes

  • Use a dairy-free milk alternative for a vegan-friendly version, but skip the heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream.
  • Stir frequently when melting chocolate to prevent burning.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of white chocolate or adding a sweetener if desired.
  • Garnishes are optional but add a lovely festive touch.
  • To keep hot chocolate warm longer, use insulated mugs or a thermal carafe.