If you’re craving the ultimate cozy treat for chilly days or simply want to spoil yourself with a decadent homemade drink, Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is pure liquid comfort. Imagine the classic richness of cocoa swirled with buttery caramel, all lifted with a sprinkle of sea salt that makes every sip sing. This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to bookmark and reach for whenever you need a little indulgence — it feels like a café-style treat, but you can easily whip it up in your own kitchen in minutes. Let’s dive into how you can make this crave-worthy mug of Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients, you’ll bring out all the luscious flavor and irresistible texture your Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate deserves. Each one plays a starring role, so here’s how they add up to pure magic in a mug:
- Whole milk: Gives your hot chocolate its creamy, comforting base and soft mouthfeel.
- Heavy cream: Adds extra richness and creates that luxurious, velvety texture.
- Caramel sauce: Infuses the drink with deep, buttery sweetness and a beautiful golden color; use the good stuff for maximum flavor.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings classic chocolate notes and balances the sweetness, making the drink indulgent yet harmonious.
- Granulated sugar: Enhances both the cocoa and caramel flavors, without making things overwhelmingly sweet.
- Sea salt: The key to that signature “salted” flavor—just a pinch perfectly amplifies all the other notes.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out everything with warm, aromatic undertones.
- Whipped cream: The finishing flourish—pillowy, creamy, and totally necessary for a café-worthy presentation.
How to Make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Warm the Dairy
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. This blend creates a silky, rich base, so don’t rush this part—let them heat gently until steamy but not boiling.
Step 2: Whisk in Flavors
Once the milk mixture is heated, add the caramel sauce, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and sea salt. Whisk everything together until the cocoa dissolves and the caramel fully melts, forming a smooth, glossy mixture. Let it bubble very gently for about 5 minutes to develop that deep, layered flavor we’re after in Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Take the pan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This last step is tiny but mighty: vanilla heightens both caramel and chocolate, giving the final drink a rounded, comforting aroma.
Step 4: Pour and Top
Pour your hot chocolate into two cozy mugs. Top generously with whipped cream, a decadent drizzle of extra caramel sauce, and a little pinch of flaky sea salt. Not only does it look dreamy, but those finishing touches make each sip magical.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Garnishes
Don’t be shy with the toppings! A luxurious swirl of whipped cream is a must, but take it to the next level with a caramel drizzle and just a pinch of sea salt crystals on top. For extra flair (and crunch), sprinkle on some chocolate shavings, toffee bits, or even a dusting of cinnamon.
Side Dishes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate pairs beautifully with buttery cookies, biscotti, or slices of pound cake. If you’re feeling playful, serve with a few marshmallows, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or even a warm cinnamon roll on the side for the ultimate treat-yourself moment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gathering or holiday brunch, set up a make-your-own hot chocolate bar! Offer a selection of garnishes like mini marshmallows, various sprinkles, and extra caramel sauce so everyone can customize their mug. Or, serve your Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate in vintage teacups for an unexpected, elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra hot chocolate (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days—just remember to give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
While Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is best enjoyed freshly made, you can pour cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, and whisk well to restore its creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your hot chocolate on the stove over low heat, whisking constantly until smooth and hot, but not boiling. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the mixture to separate—slow and gentle wins for the creamiest results!
FAQs
Can I make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap in your favorite non-dairy milk, like oat or almond, and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. There are also excellent vegan caramel sauces available or try making your own at home.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Definitely. For a less sweet version, reduce the caramel sauce slightly and add a touch more cocoa powder. You can also skip the sugar or use a less sweet chocolate for a more balanced flavor.
What caramel sauce should I use for the best flavor?
Choose a high-quality caramel sauce, preferably one that’s thick and made with real butter and cream. Homemade caramel is always wonderful, but a premium store-bought sauce will also yield delicious results.
Can I add alcohol for a grown-up twist?
Absolutely! For a boozy upgrade, add a splash of caramel vodka, Irish cream, or even spiced rum just after you remove the hot chocolate from the stove. Stir well and enjoy responsibly.
How do I get that perfect foamy top for serving?
Vigorously whisk the mixture right before pouring it into mugs to create some natural foam. And of course, a generous cloud of whipped cream finishes it perfectly—don’t forget the caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to treat yourself to a mug of Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate soon—it’s a simple yet decadent recipe that never fails to bring comfort and a little extra sweetness to any day. Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and let the caramel coziness begin!
Print
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. This cozy beverage is a perfect blend of creamy milk, decadent caramel, and a hint of sea salt, topped with whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
Ingredients
For the Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, an extra drizzle of caramel sauce, and a pinch of sea salt for garnish.
- Serve immediately.
Whisk in the caramel sauce, cocoa powder, sugar, and sea salt. Continue whisking until everything is smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.
Notes
- Use a high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor.
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of caramel vodka or Irish cream.
- You can also make this dairy-free by using oat milk and coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
