Red velvet hot chocolate is a rich, creamy, and indulgent drink with a beautiful deep red color and a hint of cocoa. It’s perfect for cold days, Valentine’s Day, or any time you want a decadent treat. This homemade version is smooth, velvety, and topped with whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich – A luxurious twist on classic hot chocolate.
- Easy to make – Just a few simple ingredients.
- Beautiful presentation – The red color makes it perfect for special occasions.
- Customizable – Adjust the chocolate intensity or sweetness to your liking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
- Heavy cream
- White chocolate (chopped or chips)
- Cocoa powder
- Sugar
- Red food coloring
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Heat the milk and cream – In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk and heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
- Add the chocolate – Stir in the white chocolate, cocoa powder, and sugar, whisking until fully melted and smooth.
- Add color and flavor – Stir in red food coloring and vanilla extract.
- Serve hot – Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spiked version – Add a splash of Baileys or Kahlua.
- Dairy-free – Use coconut milk and dairy-free white chocolate.
- Extra chocolatey – Add more cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Heat all ingredients on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
What can I use instead of white chocolate?
Milk or dark chocolate works, but it won’t have the same red velvet taste.
How do I make it thicker?
Add a little cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
Conclusion
This Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is a rich, creamy, and indulgent twist on classic hot cocoa. With its deep red color, velvety texture, and hint of cocoa, it’s the perfect drink for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or a romantic treat.
Easy to make and customizable, you can adjust the sweetness, add whipped cream, or even spike it for an adult-friendly version. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a warm, comforting drink, this red velvet hot chocolate is sure to impress!
PrintRed Velvet Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and creamy red velvet hot chocolate is a delicious twist on classic hot cocoa, with a hint of vanilla and a gorgeous red color. Perfect for cozy nights or a festive holiday treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (whole, almond, or oat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp red food coloring
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the milk: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk and heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
- Melt the chocolate: Whisk in the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Stir continuously until smooth.
- Add the red color & vanilla: Stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Serve hot: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For a thicker hot chocolate, add 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp milk.
- Make it boozy! Add a splash of Baileys or Kahlúa.
- Use beet powder instead of food coloring for a natural red color.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
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