Warm up with this Sugar Cookie White Hot Chocolate that tastes just like your favorite holiday treat! Creamy milk, melted white chocolate, and a sprinkle of festive flavor come together.
It’s like hugging a sugar cookie in a mug! I love adding a few marshmallows on top for that extra sweetness. Perfect for chilly days or cozy nights by the fireplace!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives a rich and creamy texture, but you can use any milk you have on hand, like almond, oat, or skim milk. If you want it extra creamy, consider half-and-half or heavy cream mixed with some milk.
White Chocolate: I recommend good-quality white chocolate chips for a smooth blend. If you’re looking for a substitute, melt white chocolate bars instead, or try using vanilla-flavored baking chips, but be mindful that the flavor may change slightly.
Vanilla and Almond Extracts: Vanilla is a must for flavor, while almond extract adds that classic sugar cookie taste. If you’re not a fan, you can skip the almond extract or use a hint of another flavor like coconut or hazelnut.
Whipped Cream and Cookies: Topping your drink with whipped cream is delightful! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try whipped coconut cream. For garnish, any sweet cookie works, but sugar cookies really amplify that festive theme!
How Can I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate is Perfectly Creamy?
To achieve that delicious creaminess, the temperature and mixing process are key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your milk gently over medium heat to avoid scalding. Stir regularly to prevent a skin from forming.
- When adding your white chocolate, make sure the milk is warm but not boiling. If it boils, the consistency could change.
- Whisk continuously as you mix in the chocolate and extracts. This keeps it smooth and helps incorporate all the flavors together nicely.
- Top with whipped cream right before serving to keep it fluffy!
With these tips, your Sugar Cookie White Hot Chocolate will be the perfect sweet treat to warm you up! Enjoy your cozy drink!
How to Make Sugar Cookie White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for that sugar cookie flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crumpled sugar cookies, for garnish
- Pink and white sprinkles (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes heating and mixing your ingredients, and then it’s just a matter of garnishing and enjoying your warm drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Milk:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, pour in the milk of your choice. Heat it gently until it’s warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally to help it warm evenly.
2. Melting the Chocolate:
Add the white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate) into the warm milk. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. You want it to be creamy without any lumps!
3. Adding Flavor:
Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if you’re using it). Then, add the sugar. Keep whisking for another minute or so until everything is well combined and hot.
4. Pouring into Mugs:
Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Pour the delicious hot chocolate into mugs, filling them just below the rim to leave room for the toppings.
5. Topping it Off:
Top each mug generously with whipped cream. Feel free to let your creativity shine here—add as much as you like!
6. Garnishing:
Sprinkle crumbled sugar cookies and festive pink and white sprinkles on top to give it that extra holiday cheer. These yummy toppings not only look adorable but add a lovely crunch too!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Sugar Cookie White Hot Chocolate immediately while it’s warm. Enjoy every sip of this sweet, comforting drink!
And there you have it—a mug of cozy delight that makes any chilly day feel a little brighter!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly depending on the type of milk you choose.
What if I Don’t Have White Chocolate Chips?
No worries! You can use a white chocolate bar instead. Just chop it into small pieces to help it melt faster. Alternatively, vanilla-flavored baking chips can work too, but the taste will differ a bit.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, whisking to combine, and add fresh whipped cream before serving for best results!
How Can I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to restore the creamy texture.
