Creamy, sweet, and oh-so-cozy, this white hot chocolate is the ultimate winter indulgence. I blend smooth white chocolate into warm milk and finish it with a cloud of whipped cream—each sip feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Whether I’m curled up with a book or sharing a treat with friends, this drink is my go-to comfort in a mug.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Whipped cream, for topping
White chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Directions
I heat the milk and white chocolate together in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is hot (but not boiling).
I remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Next I pour the white hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream.
I like to add a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings or festive sprinkles on top for an extra-special touch.
I serve it immediately, piping hot and delicious.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 mugs
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 310 kcal
Variations
I switch things up depending on my mood or who I’m serving:
Dairy-free version: I use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. Coconut milk adds a subtle tropical twist.
Peppermint flair: I stir in a drop of peppermint extract or garnish with crushed candy canes.
Spiced version: I add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Extra rich: I replace a cup of milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
Boozy twist: For grown-up gatherings, I sometimes add a splash of Baileys or white chocolate liqueur.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers (which rarely happens!), I store the white hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When I want to reheat it, I warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. I avoid letting it boil so the texture stays smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a dairy-free milk for white hot chocolate?
Yes, I’ve made this recipe with almond, oat, and coconut milk. They all work beautifully, though coconut milk gives a slightly different flavor.
What’s the best type of white chocolate to use?
I prefer using high-quality white chocolate bars chopped finely, but white chocolate chips also melt well and are super convenient.
Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Yes, I make a batch in advance and keep it warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting. Just give it a stir now and then.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s a sweet, creamy treat kids love—especially with fun toppings like sprinkles or mini marshmallows.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, I sometimes use slightly less white chocolate or balance the richness with a touch more milk if I want it less sweet.
Conclusion
This white hot chocolate is everything I want in a winter drink: comforting, creamy, and easy to make. I love how customizable it is, whether I’m keeping it classic or adding festive flavors. It’s become one of my favorite ways to warm up—and I hope it becomes one of yours too.
📖 Recipe:
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White Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 mugs
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, sweet, and cozy, this white hot chocolate is a luxurious winter drink made with white chocolate, milk, and vanilla, topped with whipped cream and optional sprinkles or shavings.
Ingredients
4 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Whipped cream, for topping
White chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and white chocolate.
- Stir constantly until the white chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the white hot chocolate into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with white chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Use dairy-free milk like oat, almond, or coconut for a vegan version.
Add peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
Spice it up with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Make it richer by replacing a cup of milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
For adults, add a splash of Baileys or white chocolate liqueur.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
