Description
Satisfying winter cravings, this Winter Wonderland White Hot Chocolate blends creamy indulgence with seasonal charm. Rich marshmallow topping and delicate peppermint garnish complete this comforting beverage you’ll savor on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups (710 ml / 24 fl oz) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz) heavy cream
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch nutmeg (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- White chocolate shavings
- Festive sprinkles (blue, silver, or white)
- Crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions
- Base Creation: Combine milk and cream in a medium saucepan, forming a rich dairy foundation for the luxurious beverage.
- Gentle Heating: Warm the dairy mixture over medium-low heat, stirring continuously to prevent scorching and maintain a smooth texture without boiling.
- Chocolate Integration: Gradually fold white chocolate chips into the warming liquid, whisking persistently until completely dissolved and creating a silky, uniform mixture.
- Flavor Enhancement: Introduce vanilla extract and a whisper of cinnamon or nutmeg, stirring to distribute the aromatic spices evenly throughout the liquid.
- Presentation Preparation: Pour the velvety hot chocolate into inviting mugs, preparing for final decorative elements.
- Finishing Touches: Crown each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream, then artfully sprinkle crushed candy canes, marshmallows, or delicate white chocolate shavings as festive garnishes.
- Sensory Experience: Allow the drink to cool slightly, then savor the winter-inspired elixir, letting its warmth and complex flavors transport you to a cozy seasonal moment.
Notes
- Prevent Scorching: Maintain low to medium heat while warming milk and cream to avoid burning, which can ruin the smooth texture and taste of the hot chocolate.
- Smooth Chocolate Melting: Chop white chocolate chips into smaller pieces and stir constantly to ensure even melting and prevent clumping or seizing.
- Customize Flavor Variations: Experiment with alternative spices like cardamom or orange zest, or add a splash of liqueur for an adult version of the drink.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a lactose-free alternative that maintains the rich, creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 532
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 94 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 23 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 111 mg