If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and a little indulgent, you absolutely need to try this Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe. It’s velvety, perfectly sweet, and topped with those melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows that make every sip feel like a warm hug. I love this recipe because it’s simple enough for a weeknight treat but elegant enough to impress guests on a chilly evening. Stick with me here—I’ll share all my tips so you get the creamiest, most dreamy hot chocolate you’ve ever had!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Creamy Texture: The sweetened condensed milk adds a velvety richness you won’t find in your average hot chocolate.
- Easy to Make: It only takes 15 minutes and just a few ingredients—perfect for busy nights or last-minute cravings.
- Perfect Balance of Chocolate and Sweetness: The unsweetened cocoa powder combined with the sweetness from the condensed milk creates a harmonious flavor that’s not too bitter or overly sugary.
- Marshmallow Magic: Topping it off with marshmallows makes each cup extra special, creating that nostalgic, cozy vibe everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient works together to create that creamy, rich base you need for the perfect cup of hot chocolate. Picking whole milk or 2% really influences the texture, and the sweetened condensed milk is the secret to that dreamy smoothness. When you shop, look for good quality unsweetened cocoa powder—trust me, it makes a noticeable difference.
- Whole Milk or 2% Milk: I prefer whole milk for richer flavor, but 2% works well if you want something lighter without losing creaminess.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This gives the hot chocolate its sweet, creamy base—don’t skip it or substitute with regular milk or cream.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Using unsweetened cocoa lets you control the chocolate intensity; get a good-quality one to avoid any bitterness.
- Marshmallows: Go for large marshmallows because they melt perfectly on top and create that gorgeous, gooey finish.
Variations
I love how versatile this Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe is. Over time, I’ve played around with flavors and tweaks that add a little twist, letting you make it truly your own. Don’t hesitate to experiment—you might discover your new favorite spin.
- Spicy Kick: I add a pinch of cinnamon and a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy depth—my friends adore this twist during the holidays.
- Dairy-Free Version: Switching the milk to almond or oat milk works beautifully with a dairy-free condensed coconut milk alternative.
- Mocha Style: Stir in a splash of brewed espresso into the hot chocolate base for a fabulous mocha flavor that perks you right up.
- Minty Fresh: Add a drop of peppermint extract or some crushed peppermint candy on top for a festive mint hot chocolate.
How to Make Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Chocolate Base
Start by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk and the unsweetened cocoa powder in a small bowl. I found this helps the cocoa powder dissolve better later, so your hot chocolate ends up smooth and free of lumps. Take your time here—it’s worth it!
Step 2: Warm the Milk Gently
Heat your milk in a large saucepan over medium heat. You want it warm but not boiling—watch for the steam to start rising and little bubbles forming around the edges. This slow warming ensures it mixes easily with the chocolate base.
Step 3: Combine and Cook Until Steamy
Pour in the chocolate mixture and whisk constantly until everything blends beautifully. Keep cooking over medium-low heat, stirring continuously. This is the trickiest part because you want it hot and steaming but not boiling—boiling can scorch the milk and leave a burnt flavor. Usually, 5-7 minutes is perfect!
Step 4: Serve and Top with Marshmallows
Ladle your luscious hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with large marshmallows. I love sitting by the fire while watching those marshmallows melt slowly on top—it’s pure cozy bliss.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe
- Whisk Early and Often: Start by combining the condensed milk and cocoa powder thoroughly before adding the milk to avoid lumps.
- Gentle Heat is Key: Cooking over medium-low heat and constant stirring prevent scorching and keep the hot chocolate silky smooth.
- Marshmallow Madness: Use large, fresh marshmallows—mini ones work too but don’t have the same melt effect I love.
- Avoid Boiling: Boiling the mixture will ruin the texture and flavor, so watch your heat and stir frequently to prevent burning the bottom.
How to Serve Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe
Garnishes
I sometimes sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top right after the marshmallows start melting—that subtle spice adds a whole new dimension. For a festive twist, crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of caramel sauce make the presentation pop and taste even better. And of course, a cute candy cane on the side is an easy, fun garnish!
Side Dishes
Pair your hot chocolate with buttery shortbread cookies or a warm croissant for a little afternoon treat. My family goes crazy for pairing it with chocolate chip cookies—they soak up the hot chocolate perfectly and extend the chocolatey goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special gatherings, I like serving the hot chocolate in clear glass mugs so the layers are visible—the creamy chocolate base topped with fluffy melting marshmallows is quite the showstopper. Another fun idea is using a small blowtorch to toast the marshmallows right on top for that campfire vibe without leaving your kitchen.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover hot chocolate in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. It thickens a bit when chilled, so give it a good stir or whisk before reheating to bring back that luscious texture.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t my favorite for this recipe because the dairy base can sometimes separate when thawed, but it’s doable if you’re careful. Freeze in small portions and thaw overnight in the fridge, then rewarm gently while whisking.
Reheating
Reheat your hot chocolate slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly to keep the texture smooth. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—heat in short bursts and stir well between to avoid hotspots or curdling.
FAQs
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Can I use regular sugar instead of sweetened condensed milk in this recipe?
The sweetened condensed milk isn’t just for sweetness; it adds creaminess and body that regular sugar can’t provide. You could try substituting with sugar, but you’ll need to add cream or whole milk to maintain richness, and the texture might not be as smooth.
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How do I prevent my hot chocolate from burning on the stove?
Always cook over medium-low heat and stir continuously. Avoid boiling the mixture and use a heavy-bottomed saucepan if possible to distribute heat evenly.
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What’s the best type of cocoa powder to use?
I recommend a natural unsweetened cocoa powder with a deep chocolate flavor but not too bitter. Avoid Dutch-processed cocoa if you want a lighter color and slightly tangier flavor.
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Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and a vegan condensed milk alternative, often made from coconut milk sweetened with sugar. Also, top with vegan marshmallows to keep it totally dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe has been my go-to whenever I need a little pick-me-up or want to cozy up on a chilly evening. It’s so much more than just a drink—it’s a little moment of comfort and joy. I hope you’ll enjoy making it (and sipping it!) as much as I do. Trust me, once you try this, you won’t want to settle for anything less on your next hot chocolate craving.
Print
Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy hot chocolate made with milk, sweetened condensed milk, and unsweetened cocoa powder, topped with large marshmallows. Perfect for warming up on chilly days with a smooth and velvety texture.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 4 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Toppings
- Large marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare chocolate mixture: In a small bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk and unsweetened cocoa powder together until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Heat the milk: Pour the 4 cups of milk into a large saucepan and warm over medium heat until it begins to get warm.
- Combine chocolate and milk: Add the chocolate mixture to the warmed milk and whisk continuously until completely blended.
- Simmer gently: Continue cooking the hot chocolate over medium-low heat, stirring continuously. Heat until the mixture is steamy and hot but do not let it boil to avoid burning the bottom.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top each with large marshmallows.
- Storage and reheating: Store any unused hot chocolate in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Notes
- This hot chocolate is creamy and velvety smooth, making it the perfect comforting drink for cold weather or chocolate cravings.
- Do not boil the mixture to prevent burning the milk and chocolate at the bottom of the pan.
- You can customize the topping by adding whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 481 kcal
- Sugar: 66 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 63 mg
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