Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate Recipe
This red velvet hot chocolate is the perfect drink when you want something cozy and a little extra special. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and dressed up for the holidays to make it stand out.
This warm drink is great for cold days, Christmas parties, Valentine’s Day, or even Halloween with a little tweaking of the toppings. The next time you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy hot cocoa recipe, this red velvet version is sure to hit the spot.
Save this homemade hot chocolate recipe for the next time you need a hot beverage that’s not coffee. This post contains affiliate links.
Christmas Hot Cocoa – Cozy Red Velvet Drink
I’m starting to appreciate every change of season here in the midwest. My favorite thing about the cold weather has to be the hot drink options. From herbal tea to
Then, when I want dessert in a mug, this red velvet hot chocolate is a top pick. The pretty red color is great when serving guests, but I skip the coloring when it’s just for us at home. To add a green treat, serve with these green velvet surprise filling cupcakes.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
Just simple ingredients
Directions
Pour the milk and cream into a large saucepan and place over medium heat. Bring it just to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Add the chocolate chips to the warm milk, whisking until they are fully melted. Once smooth, remove the pan from the heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract and red gel food coloring, adjusting until you get the shade of red you like.
Ladle the hot cocoa into serving glasses.
Top with whipped cream, sprinkles, and marshmallows, then serve and enjoy!
Similar Recipes
If you want more red recipes, there are many to check out on the blog. A red velvet cake shake is the ultimate dessert mashup when you want dessert you can slurp. Red velvet crinkle cookies are a soft and chewy holiday cookie option. For a layered dessert, you can’t go wrong with a red velvet trifle. And for Valentine’s Day, don’t miss these red velvet cake mix cookies.
Recipe Substitutions and Variations
Milk: Feel free to use almond milk, oat milk, or your favorite dairy-free milk instead.
Chocolate: Try dark chocolate chips for an even richer taste or milk chocolate for a bit sweeter.
Extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a flavor burst.
Coloring: Choose a different color or skip it altogether if you want a classic hot chocolate.
Alternate coloring: Use beet powder to make it red naturally without affecting the taste.
Holidays: Use Christmas sprinkles around the holidays, keep the hearts for Valentine’s Day, add a red drizzle on top for a creepy Halloween version.
Tools you’ll need
Here are some kitchen tools you’ll need for this recipe.
Storage
If you have leftover hot chocolate, you can pour it into a sealed container and store it in the fridge for 1-3 days.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overheat: Warm chocolate just until melted.
- Adjust color slowly: Add coloring gradually to get the perfect shade.
- Use quality chocolate: For best flavor and creaminess.
- Serve fresh: Tastes best right after making.
Recipe Notes & FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid a change in texture.
Can I skip the red color?
Absolutely! The color is just for show and doesn’t affect the flavor at all.
What if I don’t have both types of chocolate?
Using only one type of chocolate (either white or semi-sweet) is fine, though the taste will be a bit different.
Red Velvet Hot Cocoa Recipe
Equipment
- Whisk
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Ingredients
- 2 ½ cup milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 5 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 5 oz white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- red food coloring
- whipped topping
- red candy hearts
- mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Add milk and cream to a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring just to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer.2 ½ cup milk, 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Add the chocolate chips to the warm milk and whisk until fully melted. Remove from heat.5 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips, 5 oz white chocolate chips
- Stir in vanilla extract and red gel food coloring until desired shade of red is achieved.1 tsp vanilla extract, red food coloring
- Ladle hot cocoa into serving glasses.
- Garnish with toppings such as whipped cream, sprinkles, and marshmallows.whipped topping, red candy hearts, mini marshmallows
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1-3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Adjust red color gradually to get the desired shade.
- For dairy-free, use almond or oat milk.
Nutrition
Our Favorite
Hot Chocolate Recipes
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If you try this red velvet hot chocolate, I’d love to hear what you think. Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to share and tag me on social media if you make it.
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