This Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is a cozy drink that’s perfect for chilly days. Rich chocolate mingles with sweet caramel, and a touch of salt makes it extra special.
Honestly, I can’t resist adding whipped cream on top—it’s like a warm hug in a mug! Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra salt for that sweet and salty twist! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk you prefer. I find that almond milk pairs well with caramel flavors!
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream can work well too.
Chocolate: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is best for a deep flavor. If you’re out of chocolate, you could use chocolate chips or even mix it with some hot cocoa mix, but the taste may vary.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel works fine, but homemade gives a fresher taste. If you’re avoiding sugar, try date syrup or store-bought sugar-free caramel.
Marshmallows: Use any type of marshmallows you have. Vegan marshmallows are also available if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
How Do You Make the Perfect Hot Chocolate?
Making hot chocolate sounds simple, but to get it just right, focus on the heating and mixing process. Here’s how:
- Heat milk and cream gently, so it steams but doesn’t boil. This way, you’ll maintain the creamy texture.
- Whisk in cocoa powder before adding chocolate. It helps avoid lumps!
- Once the chocolate is melted, mix in the caramel slowly to blend it perfectly.
- Don’t rush it! Heat until everything is warm but take care not to scorch the chocolate.
With these tips, you’re set for a warm, delightful treat that’s comforting on cold days. Enjoy! ☕️
How to Make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt (plus a little extra for garnish)
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Whipped cream, optional for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salted caramel hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick, easy, and you’ll be sipping this cozy treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Milk and Cream:
Start by pouring the milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Heat them over medium heat. You want to warm the mixture until it begins to steam, but be careful not to let it boil. We want creamy, not scalded!
2. Mixing in Cocoa Powder:
Once the milk is steaming, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir continuously until it is fully dissolved and there are no lumps. It should be a beautiful chocolate color now!
3. Melting the Chocolate:
Next, add the chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir consistently until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth. This is where your hot chocolate gets its rich flavor!
4. Adding Caramel and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Keep stirring gently to ensure everything is well combined and continue heating until it’s hot but not boiling.
5. Serving Up the Goodness:
Once everything is nice and hot, pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. For the finishing touch, top each mug with mini marshmallows and, if you like, whipped cream!
6. The Final Sweet Touch:
Drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top of the whipped cream and sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt on top. It adds a delightful balance to the sweetness!
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting. Sit back, take a sip, and enjoy the delicious flavors of chocolate, caramel, and a touch of salt!
This decadent drink, with its rich chocolate and buttery caramel, is sure to bring warmth and joy. Perfect for cozy nights in or to impress friends during a gathering!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk are great options for a dairy-free version. Just choose unsweetened varieties to keep the flavors balanced.
How Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
You can store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency!
Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel Sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own for an even fresher taste.
How to Make This Recipe Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate, reduce the amount of caramel sauce or use a dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content. You can also add more salt, which enhances flavor without adding sweetness.
