Creamy Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
This indulgent hot chocolate combines rich cocoa, silky caramel, and a hint of flaky sea salt for a cozy, decadent drink. Perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you need a comforting treat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Drink
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup salted caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Extra caramel sauce, for drizzling
- Mini marshmallows, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Pour milk and cream into a medium saucepan. Set over medium heat and stir occasionally until gently steaming, about 3–4 minutes. Do not boil.
- Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until no lumps remain, about 2 minutes.
- Add chocolate chips and stir until melted and mixture is smooth and glossy, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in salted caramel sauce and stir gently until fully combined and silky. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and sprinkle in flaky sea salt. Mix well.
- Optional: Use a hand blender or whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to make it extra creamy and frothy.
- Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a pinch more salt. Add mini marshmallows if desired.
Notes
For dairy-free, use oat milk and coconut cream. Adjust sugar based on caramel sweetness. Warm caramel before adding to avoid clumping. Add toppings just before serving for best presentation. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (about 10 oz/3
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 7
Keywords: hot chocolate, caramel, salted caramel, cozy drink, winter, easy recipe, indulgent, dessert drink, gluten-free, dairy-free option