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Caramel Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 125 reviews
  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Warm up your chilly days with this indulgent Caramel Hot Chocolate recipe that blends rich cocoa and semi-sweet chocolate with luscious caramel sauce for a decadent treat. Creamy whole milk and heavy cream create the perfect velvety base, while whipped cream topping and caramel drizzle bring extra sweetness and visual appeal. Perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings, this easy stovetop recipe makes a wonderfully comforting beverage any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

  1. Combine Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, pour 2 cups of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently and frequently, until warm but not boiling to prevent curdling.
  2. Whisk in Cocoa Powder: Add 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the warm milk and cream. Use a whisk to blend thoroughly until no lumps remain, creating a rich chocolate base.
  3. Melt Chocolate Chips and Add Caramel: Stir in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of caramel sauce, 1/4 cup of sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Continuously stir until the chocolate chips fully melt and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Vanilla and Adjust Sweetness: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Taste the hot chocolate and add more sugar if desired to reach your preferred sweetness level.
  5. Pour and Top: Carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs, leaving space at the top for toppings. Generously add whipped cream on each serving, then drizzle extra caramel sauce over the whipped cream for a decorative, indulgent finish.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm for a comforting drink that melts in your mouth.

Notes

  • Use almond milk or oat milk and replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version; use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan caramel sauce.
  • For a keto option, substitute sugar with erythritol and use full-fat coconut milk instead of whole milk.
  • To thicken the drink, add extra chocolate chips, reduce the milk slightly, or incorporate a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with cold water).
  • Stir constantly and avoid boiling the milk to prevent curdling and ensure a silky texture.
  • Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
  • Seasonal variations include adding pumpkin spice in fall or peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candy during holidays.
  • For an iced version, cool the hot chocolate, pour over ice, then top with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
  • Use thick ceramic mugs to keep your drink hot longer and pair with cookies or pastries like chocolate chip cookies or flaky croissants for a delightful treat.
  • Top with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for an enhanced presentation.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Drinks
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramel hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, winter drink, chocolate beverage, whipped cream topping, caramel drizzle, cozy drink, stovetop hot chocolate, indulgent drink, easy hot chocolate recipe

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Find it online: https://harperellington.com/caramel-hot-chocolate-with-whipped-cream-recipe/