10 Rich Christmas Hot Chocolate Drinks Recipes Kids Will Adore

With the holiday season in full swing, there’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of rich hot chocolate drinks. These recipes are perfect for adding a touch of festive magic to your family gatherings. From a Classic Creamy Hot Chocolate to a playful S’mores version, each recipe is simple and engaging. They invite kids to join in the fun and create lasting memories. Ready to explore these delightful recipes together?

Classic Creamy Hot Chocolate

Classic Creamy Hot Chocolate is the quintessential cozy beverage that brings warmth and delight, especially during the festive season. This recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a comforting blend of rich chocolate, creamy milk, and just the right amount of sweetness.

The beauty of this hot chocolate lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of quality cocoa and milk to shine through. Whether enjoyed by the fireplace or after a day of playing in the snow, this drink is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Making Classic Creamy Hot Chocolate is both fun and easy, making it a great activity to involve kids. This recipe serves 4-6 people, providing enough to share with family or friends. The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture is to use whole milk and finely chopped chocolate, ensuring a smooth and luscious drink.

For an extra touch of holiday magic, you can top each serving with whipped cream or marshmallows, adding both visual appeal and additional flavor.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and slowly bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
2. Add Cocoa and Sugar: Once the milk and cream mixture begins to simmer, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. Continue whisking until both are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Incorporate the Chocolate: Reduce the heat to low and add the finely chopped chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely, resulting in a smooth and glossy texture.
4. Flavor and Season: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, ensuring each serving is heated through. Optionally, top with whipped cream or marshmallows for added flavor and decoration.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use high-quality chocolate as it greatly affects the flavor of the hot chocolate. If serving to a larger group, you can easily double the recipe.

To make this drink even more indulgent, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced twist. Remember to keep the heat low during preparation to avoid burning the chocolate or scorching the milk. Enjoy this delicious treat with your loved ones for a memorable holiday experience.

Peppermint Candy Cane Delight

Nothing says Christmas quite like the delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint, and this Peppermint Candy Cane Delight hot chocolate recipe is sure to bring festive cheer to your holiday gatherings.

This delicious drink combines creamy, rich hot chocolate with the invigorating taste of peppermint, creating a heartwarming beverage that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Perfect for cozying up by the fireplace or serving at a holiday party, this recipe is simple to make and full of flavor.

The Peppermint Candy Cane Delight isn’t only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, it looks as festive as it tastes. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for gatherings with friends or family.

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on creating a cup of holiday magic that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 6 candy canes, crushed (plus extra for garnish)
• Whipped cream (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar and cocoa powder to the hot milk and cream mixture. Whisk continuously until the sugar and cocoa are fully dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Melt the Chocolate: Add the chopped semisweet chocolate to the saucepan. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Add Flavors: Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, mixing well to combine all the flavors. Adjust the peppermint extract to taste, if necessary.
5. Incorporate Crushed Candy Canes: Before serving, stir in most of the crushed candy canes, saving a small portion for garnish. This will add an extra peppermint crunch to your drink.
6. Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, filling them about three-quarters full. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of the reserved crushed candy canes.

Extra Tips:

For an even more indulgent treat, consider adding a small piece of peppermint bark or a chocolate truffle to each mug just before serving, allowing it to melt into the hot chocolate.

Be sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor, and if you’re serving this to adults, you can add a splash of peppermint schnapps for an extra kick.

Remember to monitor the heat closely to prevent the milk from scorching, as this can affect the overall taste of your hot chocolate. Enjoy your festive Peppermint Candy Cane Delight!

Marshmallow Dream Hot Cocoa

Marshmallow Dream Hot Cocoa is the perfect winter treat that combines the rich, velvety taste of hot chocolate with the fluffy delight of marshmallows. This kid-friendly recipe isn’t only delicious but also fun to make, making it an excellent family activity during the holiday season.

The warmth of the cocoa paired with the melt-in-your-mouth texture of marshmallows creates a dreamy experience that will surely become a holiday favorite for your children. This indulgent beverage is perfect for cozy family gatherings or as a sweet surprise after a day of festive activities.

The Marshmallow Dream Hot Cocoa recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, ensuring there’s plenty to go around. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, even the youngest members of your family can join in on the preparation, making cherished memories in the process.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 cups of mini marshmallows
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Additional marshmallows for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
2. Add the Chocolate: Once the milk and cream mixture is warmed, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Stir continuously with a whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Flavor the Cocoa: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir well to incorporate the vanilla flavor throughout the hot cocoa.
4. Incorporate Marshmallows: Gently fold in the two cups of mini marshmallows into the hot cocoa, stirring until they begin to melt and create a frothy, marshmallowy layer on the surface.
5. Serve: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the full, rich flavor and texture of the Marshmallow Dream Hot Cocoa.

Extra Tips: For an extra festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream. If you have peppermint candy canes, crush them into small pieces and sprinkle them over the marshmallows for a peppermint twist.

To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can substitute some of the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips. Be sure to stir the hot cocoa frequently to prevent the chocolate from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan and burning.

Nutty Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

Nutty Hazelnut Hot Chocolate is the perfect festive drink to enjoy with your family during the holiday season. This delightful beverage combines the rich, creamy flavors of chocolate with the warm, nutty taste of hazelnuts, making it an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike.

By using real hazelnut spread and high-quality cocoa powder, you can create a luscious, velvety drink that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re sipping it by the fireplace or serving it at a Christmas party, this hot chocolate will surely spread holiday cheer.

The recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for small family gatherings or a quiet evening at home. It’s simple enough for kids to help with and can be customized to suit individual taste preferences.

Top it with whipped cream or marshmallows for an extra touch of indulgence, and watch as it becomes a family favorite during the festive season. Follow this easy recipe to create a warm and cozy Christmas experience with your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup hazelnut spread
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional, for topping)
• Chopped hazelnuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until it’s hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
2. Add the Hazelnut Spread: Once the milk mixture is hot, reduce the heat to low and add the hazelnut spread. Stir continuously until the spread is fully melted and incorporated into the milk.
3. Incorporate the Cocoa and Sugar: Gradually whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. Continue to whisk until all the ingredients are smoothly blended, and there are no lumps of cocoa or sugar.
4. Flavor with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a subtle depth of flavor to the hot chocolate.
5. Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. For an extra nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the top before serving.

Extra Tips:

To make the Nutty Hazelnut Hot Chocolate even more decadent, try adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate and hazelnut flavors.

If you prefer a stronger hazelnut taste, increase the amount of hazelnut spread slightly. For a dairy-free option, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk, which will add a lovely twist to the original recipe.

Remember to keep stirring the mixture to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to guarantee a smooth, creamy consistency.

White Chocolate Wonderland

Indulge your little ones in the magic of the holiday season with a delightful treat called “White Chocolate Wonderland.” This creamy and luscious hot chocolate is perfect for kids, capturing the festive spirit with its rich, velvety texture and sweet flavor. The smoothness of white chocolate blends perfectly with hints of vanilla, creating a warm and comforting drink that’s sure to become a holiday favorite.

Whether you’re gathered around the Christmas tree or singing carols by the fire, this delicious beverage will bring joy and warmth to every heart.

Designed to serve 4-6 people, White Chocolate Wonderland is easy to prepare and takes only a few ingredients, making it a convenient choice for busy holiday gatherings. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a cup of cheer that both kids and adults will love. The combination of white chocolate and creamy milk, topped with a sprinkle of festive toppings, offers a delightful experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Mini marshmallows (for topping)
• Festive sprinkles (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk and Cream: Begin by combining the whole milk and heavy cream in a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture begins to steam, but don’t let it come to a boil.
2. Melt the White Chocolate: Reduce the heat to low, and add the white chocolate chips to the saucepan. Stir continuously with a whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Once the chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Mix well to distribute the vanilla flavor evenly throughout the hot chocolate.
4. Serve and Decorate: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, filling each about three-quarters full. Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a handful of mini marshmallows, and a sprinkle of festive sprinkles.
5. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, and watch as your little ones delight in the creamy, sweet flavors of their White Chocolate Wonderland.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, you can substitute half of the white chocolate chips with white chocolate bars chopped into small pieces. This will enhance the creaminess of the drink.

Additionally, if you want to add a touch of color, consider using colored marshmallows or adding a drop of food coloring into the whipped cream to make it more festive.

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or any other preferred plant-based milk alternative. Always keep an eye on the milk and cream mixture to prevent it from boiling, as this can alter the texture of your hot chocolate.

Enjoy this delightful beverage with cookies or your favorite holiday treats!

Caramel Swirl Cocoa

Caramel Swirl Cocoa is a delightful treat that brings a festive touch to the classic hot chocolate. This rich and creamy beverage is perfect for warming up after a frolic in the snow or as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings. The addition of caramel adds a luscious sweetness that kids will adore, making it a standout choice on any Christmas menu.

Whether you’re sipping by the fire or serving it at a holiday party, Caramel Swirl Cocoa is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings to kids and adults alike. It’s a drink that encourages creativity, allowing little ones to participate in the process by adding their own special toppings or swirling in the caramel.

With its smooth texture and indulgent flavor, Caramel Swirl Cocoa is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that brings people together in the spirit of the season. Gather your ingredients and let the festive fun begin!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Additional caramel sauce (for drizzling)
• Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and gently warm the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it’s steaming but not boiling.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsweetened cocoa powder to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Incorporate Caramel: Pour in the 1/2 cup of caramel sauce and stir well. Confirm that the caramel is thoroughly mixed into the hot chocolate, creating a uniform color and flavor throughout.
4. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall flavor and aroma of your cocoa.
5. Serve: Ladle the hot caramel cocoa into mugs. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
6. Garnish: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the whipped cream. If desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings or festive sprinkles on top for extra flair.

Extra Tips

To prevent the milk from scalding, make sure to heat it slowly and stir frequently. If you want a richer cocoa, you can substitute part of the milk with additional cream.

For those who prefer a less sweet drink, adjust the amount of caramel sauce to taste. This recipe can also be customized with different toppings, such as marshmallows or a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist. Enjoy this cozy beverage while it’s hot for the best experience!

Cookies and Cream Hot Chocolate

Cookies and Cream Hot Chocolate is a delightful treat that brings the joy of winter and the warmth of a cozy Christmas together in a mug. This rich, decadent beverage is perfect for kids and adults alike, combining creamy hot chocolate with the irresistible taste of cookies and cream.

Imagine the look of delight on your children’s faces as they sip on this sweet, creamy concoction, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkled with cookie crumbs. It’s an indulgent way to celebrate the festive season and a guaranteed hit at any Christmas gathering.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings. It’s a perfect Christmas treat to share with family and friends, filling the room with the sweet aroma of chocolate and cookies.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening by the fire or hosting a lively holiday party, this Cookies and Cream Hot Chocolate is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be whipped up in just a few minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos), crushed
• Whipped cream, for topping
• Additional crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a large saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture is hot but not boiling. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Chocolate: Once the milk and cream mixture is hot, reduce the heat to low and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Incorporate the Flavors: Stir in the vanilla extract and the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Continue to stir for another 2 minutes to guarantee the cookies are well incorporated and the flavors meld together.
4. Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, filling each about three-quarters full. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle additional crushed chocolate sandwich cookies over the whipped cream for garnish.
5. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, and watch the smiles unfold as everyone takes their first sip.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can also add a pinch of salt to the hot chocolate to enhance the sweetness and depth of the chocolate flavor.

If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the hot chocolate through a fine-mesh sieve before serving to remove any cookie bits. Finally, for an extra festive touch, consider adding a splash of peppermint extract or a candy cane stirrer to each mug. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of this delicious holiday treat!

Spiced Gingerbread Hot Cocoa

Indulge in the festive spirit with a warm cup of Spiced Gingerbread Hot Cocoa, a delightful drink that combines the rich, creamy texture of hot chocolate with the comforting flavors of gingerbread spices. This drink is perfect for a cozy Christmas morning or a chilly winter evening, inviting both kids and adults to enjoy its aromatic blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Imagine the wonderful smell wafting through the house as you prepare this delightful treat, bringing everyone together around the holiday hearth.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, providing enough for a small family gathering or a festive playdate with friends. The combination of cocoa powder and warm spices creates a soothing and flavorful beverage, while the addition of whipped cream and gingerbread cookies for garnish adds a special touch. Simple yet indulgent, this Spiced Gingerbread Hot Cocoa will quickly become a holiday favorite, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Whipped cream, for topping
• Mini gingerbread cookies, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. This guarantees that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cocoa.
2. Add Milk and Heat: Gradually add the whole milk to the saucepan, whisking continuously to combine the dry ingredients with the milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is hot and steamy but not boiling.
3. Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Once the cocoa is hot, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This step enhances the flavors of the cocoa and spices.
4. Serve: Pour the spiced gingerbread hot cocoa into mugs, leaving some space at the top for toppings. Finish with a generous swirl of whipped cream and place a mini gingerbread cookie on top for garnish.
5. Enjoy: Serve immediately, allowing the delightful aroma and warm flavors to soothe and bring joy to everyone gathered.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder or substituting half of the milk with cream for extra creaminess.

Adjust the spices to suit your taste; you can add more cinnamon for warmth or more ginger for spice. To make this drink extra festive, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream before adding the gingerbread cookie garnish.

If you’re preparing this for a holiday gathering, set up a hot cocoa bar with various toppings like marshmallows, candy canes, and chocolate shavings to let everyone customize their drink.

S’mores Hot Chocolate

S’mores Hot Chocolate is a festive twist on the classic winter drink that brings the campfire favorite indoors. It’s a perfect treat for kids during the holiday season, as it combines the nostalgic flavors of s’mores with the comforting warmth of hot chocolate. This recipe is designed to be both fun to make and delicious to drink, guaranteeing that little ones get to enjoy the full s’mores experience in a cup.

With gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and a hint of graham cracker, this beverage is sure to become a holiday favorite. To make S’mores Hot Chocolate for 4-6 people, you’ll start by preparing a rich chocolate base, then add the signature s’mores toppings for a delightful finish. The process involves melting chocolate into milk, creating a smooth and creamy texture, and then garnishing with toasted marshmallows and crushed graham crackers.

The result is a warm, cozy drink that’s perfect for sipping by the fire or enjoying after a day of playing in the snow.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Stir occasionally until the mixture is warm, but not boiling.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and granulated sugar to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the sugar is dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
3. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix until fully incorporated into the hot chocolate base.
4. Toast the Marshmallows: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Spread the mini marshmallows on a baking sheet. Place them under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and toasted. Watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Assemble the Drinks: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Drizzle a bit of chocolate syrup around the inside top rim of each mug for an extra chocolatey touch.
6. Add Toppings: Top each mug of hot chocolate with a generous handful of the toasted marshmallows. Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the marshmallows. If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.

Extra Tips:

When making S’mores Hot Chocolate, use high-quality chocolate chips to guarantee the richest flavor. For an extra touch of fun, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the hot chocolate base for a subtle spice.

If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar or chocolate syrup to taste. Always supervise children during the toasting step to guarantee safety, as the broiler can work quickly. For an outdoor twist, consider toasting the marshmallows over a fire pit if available.

Fruity Raspberry Hot Cocoa

This festive season, bring a burst of fruity flavor to your holiday celebrations with a delightful Fruity Raspberry Hot Cocoa. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this creamy beverage combines the rich taste of classic hot chocolate with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of raspberries.

It’s a beautiful blend that not only warms the soul but also adds a splash of color to your Christmas gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this raspberry-infused hot cocoa is sure to become a family favorite.

The magic of Fruity Raspberry Hot Cocoa lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The fresh raspberries provide a natural sweetness and tanginess that complements the rich, velvety chocolate.

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in just a few minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules. Gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps below to create a delicious drink that will delight your taste buds and bring joy to your festive season.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 4 cups of milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of fresh raspberries
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Fresh raspberries (for garnish)
• Optional: Marshmallows or chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Raspberry Puree: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh raspberries with 2 tablespoons of water and 1/4 cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Strain the Mixture: Once the raspberry mixture is ready, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the seeds. Use a spoon to press the mixture through the sieve to extract as much puree as possible. Set aside the smooth raspberry puree.
3. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a separate saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
4. Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the hot milk mixture, stirring continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Sweeten the Cocoa: Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the vanilla is well incorporated.
6. Combine with Raspberry Puree: Carefully pour the raspberry puree into the chocolate mixture. Stir until the raspberry flavor is evenly distributed throughout the cocoa.
7. Serve: Pour the Fruity Raspberry Hot Cocoa into mugs. Top with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and any additional garnishes like marshmallows or chocolate shavings.

Extra Tips:

For the best fruity flavor, use fresh, ripe raspberries. If fresh raspberries aren’t available, you can use frozen raspberries, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly before making the puree.

If you want a thicker consistency, you can increase the amount of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk.

Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar. Remember, the key to a smooth hot cocoa is to stir continuously, especially when melting the chocolate, to prevent any lumps.

Enjoy this delightful drink warm and savor the combination of flavors that truly captures the spirit of the holidays!