Print

White Hot Chocolate Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 107 reviews

Indulge in a creamy and luxurious White Hot Chocolate that combines velvety melted white chocolate with warm milk and a hint of vanilla. This delightful drink is topped with fluffy whipped cream and optional festive garnishes, making it a perfect cozy treat for chilly evenings or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Liquid Ingredients

  • 4 cups whole milk (or your favorite dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional but adds extra richness)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (Madagascar vanilla is recommended)

Chocolate and Sweeteners

  • 8 oz white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate bars; Ghirardelli works wonders)
  • 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 until tiny bubbles form at the edges—do not let it boil. Stir gently to keep the mixture smooth and prevent skin from forming.
  2. Melt the white chocolate: Lower the heat, then add the white chocolate chips to the warmed mixture. Whisk continuously to melt the chocolate evenly and prevent it from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
  3. Add vanilla and salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract and a pinch of fine sea salt to balance the sweetness. Taste and adjust if necessary for a silky, sweet flavor.
  4. Serve and garnish: Pour the white hot chocolate into mugs. Top each cup with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  5. Finish with optional toppings: Sprinkle with ground cinnamon, crushed peppermint, or white chocolate shavings for an extra festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy warmth.

Notes

  • Use dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly (omit heavy cream and use vegan whipped cream).
  • Heating the mixture gently is key to preventing the chocolate from separating or burning.
  • Adjust sweetness by choosing white chocolate with different levels of sugar or by adding a bit of sweetener if desired.
  • For a richer flavor, the heavy cream is optional but highly recommended.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.