Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a steaming cup of hot chocolate topped with fluffy marshmallows to warm you up on a chilly day. This recipe combines rich cocoa, melted chocolate, and a hint of vanilla to create a comforting drink that’s perfect for any time you need a cozy treat.

Ingredients

• 500 ml (2 cups) milk – or plant-based milk
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp brown sugar – or maple syrup/honey
• 100 g (4 oz) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 200 ml (¾ cup) cold heavy cream
• 1 tbsp confectioner’s sugar (sifted)
• Mini marshmallows for topping

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Step 2: Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to combine well, then heat over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Add the chopped semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate and stir until fully melted and the hot chocolate is smooth, about 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
6. Step 6: In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy cream and sifted confectioner’s sugar on medium speed until soft peaks form.
7. Step 7: Spoon or pipe the whipped cream over the hot chocolate, top generously with mini marshmallows, and enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use a blend of milk and cream instead of just milk.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract to the hot chocolate for a festive twist.
• Use dairy-free whipping cream and plant-based milk to make this recipe completely vegan.
• Instead of mini marshmallows, try topping with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Whipped cream and marshmallows are best added fresh to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use water instead of milk?

Using water will result in a less creamy and less rich hot chocolate. For the best flavor and texture, milk or a plant-based milk alternative is recommended.

How can I make whipped cream without a mixer?

You can use a whisk and a mixing bowl, though it will require more effort and time. Chill both the bowl and whisk beforehand to help the cream whip more easily.

Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 77 reviews

This comforting hot chocolate recipe combines rich cocoa and melted chocolate with a touch of vanilla for a velvety drink. Topped with freshly whipped cream and mini marshmallows, it’s a perfect cozy treat for chilly days or festive gatherings.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Hot Chocolate

• 500 ml (2 cups) milk – or plant-based milk
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp brown sugar – or maple syrup/honey
• 100 g (4 oz) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Whipped Cream

• 200 ml (¾ cup) cold heavy cream
• 1 tbsp confectioner’s sugar (sifted)

Topping

• Mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Prepare Hot Chocolate: In a saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to combine the ingredients smoothly. Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture, stirring occasionally until it reaches a gentle boil.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate to the heated milk mixture. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and uniform. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
3. Prepare Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream and sifted confectioner’s sugar together on medium speed until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy whipped cream.
4. Assemble the Drink: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Spoon or pipe the freshly whipped cream on top. Finally, add mini marshmallows as a topping for an added sweet and crunchy texture. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.

Notes

• Use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk to make this dairy-free and vegan-friendly (omit whipped cream or use a vegan alternative).
• Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or substituting with honey or maple syrup.
• For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder into the hot chocolate.
• To make whipped cream easier, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand.
• Mini marshmallows can be toasted lightly on top using a kitchen torch for added flavor.

Keywords: hot chocolate, cocoa, whipped cream, marshmallows, warm drink, winter beverage, cozy drink