Warm up with this yummy Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate! It’s rich and creamy, making it a perfect treat on chilly days. The sweet caramel swirls create a delightful blend!
Honestly, who can resist a hot drink that tastes like dessert? I love topping mine with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt for that extra touch. So comforting! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich texture, but you can use almond, soy, or oat milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. Almond milk adds a nice nutty flavor!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that chocolatey taste. If you’re out, you can use chocolate syrup, but reduce the sugar you’ll add to the mix.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best; however, if you’re a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to replace them with dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor. White chocolate is also a fun alternative!
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought sauces are super convenient, but homemade caramel sauce can elevate your drink. If you’re short on time, try using dulce de leche as a substitute!
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are classic, but you can use whipped cream or even crushed graham crackers for a twist. I love the crunch of toasting the marshmallows for extra flavor!
What’s the Key to a Smooth Hot Chocolate?
Making a smooth hot chocolate is all about heating technique. Here are some tips to ensure you avoid lumps and achieve creamy perfection:
- Start with cold milk to gradually mix in dry ingredients without clumping.
- Constant stirring as you heat the mixture helps combine everything evenly, preventing the cocoa from settling.
- Keep the heat at medium to low after adding chocolate to prevent burning. You want it melted into the milk, not scorched.
These steps make a big difference in achieving a velvety texture in your salted caramel hot chocolate!
How to Make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Pinch of salt (sea salt preferred for finishing)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or curls, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salted caramel hot chocolate takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a few minutes to mix everything and heat it up, then just a few more to assemble your delicious masterpiece. Perfect for a cozy day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it’s hot but not boiling—about 5 minutes should do the trick!
2. Melt the Chocolate:
Lower the heat to a gentle level and add in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Keep stirring continuously until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes perfectly smooth. This ensures there are no lumps and that each sip is deliciously creamy!
3. Flavor It Up:
Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt. The salt will enhance the sweetness and give it that delightful salted caramel flavor!
4. Assemble Your Hot Chocolate:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. This is the moment to make it look as delightful as it tastes!
5. Add all the Toppings:
Top your hot chocolate generously with mini marshmallows and whipped cream if you like. Don’t be shy—go for a big dollop!
6. Drizzle the Caramel:
Now for the fun part: drizzle caramel sauce over the marshmallows and whipped cream, letting some drip down the sides for that extra flair!
7. Finish with Style:
For a fancy finish, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and some chocolate shavings over your caramel topping. It looks beautiful and will make each sip even more delightful!
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm and cozy. Snuggle up with a blanket and enjoy your rich, creamy, salted caramel hot chocolate! It’s sure to bring a smile to your face!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk works great as a substitute. Just be aware that different milks have varying flavors, so choose one that complements the hot chocolate to your taste!
How Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Without Sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Just adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences, as some sweeteners can be sweeter than sugar!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
To elevate your salted caramel hot chocolate, consider adding a splash of peppermint extract for a festive twist, or try sprinkling a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg. Each adds a unique flavor that can make your drink even more delightful!
