This Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is a decadent, velvety drink that combines the smooth sweetness of white chocolate with the richness of cocoa and a touch of vanilla. With its beautiful red hue and indulgent creaminess, it’s a cozy winter treat and a festive favorite for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or whenever you’re craving something special. Topped with whipped cream and cake crumbs, it’s a sip of pure indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Rich and Decadent: A blend of cocoa, white chocolate, and milk makes it ultra-creamy.
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Beautiful Presentation: Its red velvet color makes it as stunning as it is delicious.
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Quick & Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes with simple ingredients.
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Customizable: Adjust sweetness, richness, or toppings to your liking.
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Perfect for Special Occasions: A cozy drink that doubles as a showstopper for gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups milk (whole or oat milk for creaminess)
1/4 cup white chocolate chips
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
Pinch of salt
Whipped cream and red velvet cake crumbs (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Heat Milk: Warm milk in a saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
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Melt Chocolate: Add white chocolate chips and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
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Mix in Flavorings: Stir in cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, food coloring, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined.
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Serve: Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and cake crumbs if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Extra Creamy: Replace half the milk with heavy cream.
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Dairy-Free: Use oat, almond, or coconut milk with dairy-free white chocolate.
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Spiked Version: Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlua, or vanilla vodka for an adult treat.
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Mocha Twist: Stir in a shot of espresso for a red velvet mocha.
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Holiday Flair: Top with crushed candy canes or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best served fresh. If storing, keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, whisking until smooth. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may curdle the milk.
FAQs
Can I make this without food coloring?
Yes, it will still taste delicious but won’t have the signature red velvet look.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, but the flavor will be different—white chocolate keeps it sweet and creamy.
What’s the best milk to use?
Whole milk or oat milk gives the richest, creamiest texture.
Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
Can I make a large batch for guests?
Absolutely—just scale up the ingredients and keep warm in a slow cooker.
What if my cocoa clumps?
Whisk continuously, or sift cocoa powder before adding.
Can I add cream cheese for more “red velvet” flavor?
Yes, whisk in a tablespoon of softened cream cheese for extra tanginess.
Is this drink kid-friendly?
Yes, kids will love the sweet, colorful hot cocoa.
How can I make it thicker?
Use less milk or add a splash of heavy cream for a richer consistency.
Can I use beet juice instead of food coloring?
Yes, beet juice or beet powder is a natural way to achieve a red tint.
Conclusion
Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is a quick and luxurious drink that brings the beloved flavors of red velvet cake into a warm, sippable form. With its smooth blend of cocoa, white chocolate, and vanilla, plus its vibrant red color, it’s the perfect treat for cozy nights, festive gatherings, or simply spoiling yourself with something special.
Print
Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is a rich, velvety drink that blends white chocolate, cocoa, vanilla, and a touch of red coloring for a stunning and indulgent treat. With its festive hue and decadent creaminess, it’s perfect for cozy nights, Valentine’s Day, holidays, or anytime you want something extra special. Topped with whipped cream and cake crumbs, it feels like sipping dessert in a mug.
Ingredients
2 cups milk (whole or oat milk for creaminess)
1/4 cup white chocolate chips
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
Pinch of salt
Whipped cream and red velvet cake crumbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat Milk: In a saucepan, warm milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- Melt Chocolate: Add white chocolate chips and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix in Flavorings: Stir in cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined.
- Serve: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and cake crumbs if desired.
Notes
- Extra Creamy: Replace half the milk with heavy cream.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and dairy-free white chocolate.
- Spiked Version: Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlua, or vanilla vodka.
- Mocha Twist: Stir in a shot of espresso for a red velvet mocha.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
