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Here’s a cozy drink that’s rich and perfect for cold nights or those times you want something a little fancy. It’s got homemade salted caramel mixed with classic hot chocolate flavors. Then it’s topped with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a pinch of flaky sea salt to keep things balanced. It feels fancy but is super simple to whip up at home.
I first made this on a chilly night for some friends and it quickly became our go-to comfort drink anytime someone wanted a little cheer or a reason to celebrate.
Ingredients
- Brown sugar: warms up and deepens the chocolate base
- Unsalted butter: brings creaminess and richness to the caramel, choose good quality for best results
- Vanilla extract: boosts all the flavors, avoid fake vanilla for true taste
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: gives that rich chocolate kick, Dutch processing softens the flavor
- Heavy cream: makes the caramel sauce thick and luscious, full fat is ideal
- Flaky sea salt: cracks of salt to jazz up the whipped cream and add texture
- Mini marshmallows (optional): a fun gooey touch many love
- Dark chocolate chips: melt smoothly into the warm drink for extra richness, pick quality varieties
- Granulated sugar: the main ingredient for caramel, white sugar works best for color and taste
- Sea salt: balances sweetness and highlights the caramel’s flavor
- A pinch of salt: amps up the chocolate’s richness
- Whole milk: helps make the hot chocolate smooth and creamy, avoid ultra-pasteurized types
- Caramel drizzle: adds a sweet finish on top
- Whipped cream: light and airy topping perfect for this rich drink
Steps
- Make the Caramel:
- Start by heating the granulated sugar on medium. Let it melt and turn a deep golden brown without stirring too much. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Once it’s that nice amber, slowly stir in the butter until melted and mixed well.
- Add Cream and Flavor:
- Take the pan off the heat for a bit and slowly whisk in the heavy cream while it bubbles. Then stir in vanilla and sea salt to finish off the caramel. Set it aside.
- Heat Milk and Mix Chocolate:
- Warm the whole milk in another saucepan until hot but not boiling. Whisk in cocoa powder until smooth. Add in the chocolate chips and brown sugar and whisk until everything melts and blends nicely. Toss in a pinch of salt to brighten the taste.
- Bring it Together:
- Pour the caramel sauce into the chocolate milk and mix well. Taste it and add more caramel or sugar if you want it sweeter.
- Pour and Top:
- Ladle the salted caramel chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top with whipped cream and drizzle some more caramel on it. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and add mini marshmallows if you like. Serve right away for the best flavor.
The homemade salted caramel is what really makes this drink stand out. Getting the sugar just right takes a little practice but it’s so worth it. I made this for a family get-together and everyone’s happy faces after their first sip told me it’s a winner.
Keep It Fresh
If you have leftovers, keep the hot chocolate in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Warm it gently on the stove so the caramel sauce and milk don’t separate. Add fresh whipped cream and toppings each time to keep it tasty.
Swap Ideas
You can swap whole milk for almond or oat milk if you want it dairy-free, but it will be a bit lighter. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the caramel sauce to keep it dairy-free too. If cocoa powder isn’t your thing, you can melt bittersweet chocolate right into the milk instead.
What to Pair
This salted caramel chocolate pairs wonderfully with buttery shortbread or cinnamon sugar doughnuts for a little extra treat. It’s awesome as a cozy dessert drink when you have guests or just want to spoil yourself on the weekend.
This salted caramel hot chocolate is a delicious treat that’s nicely balanced between sweet and salty and easy enough for any night when you want something special.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What's the trick to making the salted caramel base?
Warm up sugar till it’s nice and amber, then mix in butter and cream. Add a splash of vanilla and salt to give it a deep, balanced flavor.
- → Can I swap in other types of milk?
You sure can! Almond or oat milk work fine, but they might change the taste and feel a bit.
- → Which toppings make this drink pop?
Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, some flaky sea salt, and little marshmallows all bring extra fun and texture.
- → How do I keep the caramel from getting grainy?
Don’t stir until the sugar melts fully and turns amber. Let it heat without mixing or it might get grainy.
- → Is dark chocolate really needed for the best flavor?
Using good quality dark chocolate chips boosts the cocoa taste and balances the caramel’s sweetness perfectly.