This super easy to make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is a quick and delicious treat to satisfy your fall chocolate drink cravings!
As the seasons change and the temperatures begin to drop, thereโs nothing quite as comforting as curling up with a warm, indulgent beverage. Among the many options that beckon during the colder months, salted caramel hot chocolate stands out as a decadent, irresistible treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the sweet, buttery taste of caramel and a hint of savory salt. This luxurious drink has captured the hearts of many, and for good reasonโitโs a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and creamy that warms both body and soul.
How to Make the Perfect Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Creating the perfect salted caramel hot chocolate at home is simpler than you might think, and it all starts with high-quality ingredients:
Ingredients:
For the Hot Chocolate
- 1ย Cupย Milk
- 1.2 oz or 35gย Milk Chocolate/Chocolate of Choice
- 2ย Tspย Salted Caramel Sauceย (recipe on my tiktok)
Toppings
- Aย Coupleย Marshmallowsย
- Extraย Salted Caramel Sauce
Instructions:
For the Hot Chocolate
- Start by measuring 1 cup of milk into a sauce pan along with your chocolate and 1 tsp of caramel sauce
- Place your hot chocolate on medium-high heat until everything is melted and combinedย
- While you hot chocolate is warming up, take the rest of your caramel (around 1 tsp) and spread it around the sides of your desired mugย
- Once everything has melted pour your hot chocolate into your prepared mugย
Toppings
- Top you hot chocolate with marshmallows and more caramel sauce
- Serve warm and enjoy!
This recipe makes about one generous serving, perfect for a cozy evening.
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Variations
One of the joys of making salted caramel hot chocolate at home is the ability to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow Fluff
For an extra layer of sweetness and a fun twist, try adding a swirl of marshmallow fluff to your hot chocolate. Simply spoon a generous dollop of marshmallow fluff into your mug just before serving. As you stir, the marshmallow fluff will melt into the hot chocolate, creating a rich, creamy texture and an added sweetness that complements the caramel and chocolate flavors perfectly. This variation is particularly delightful for those who enjoy their hot chocolate on the sweeter side, and itโs sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
2. Vegan Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
If youโre dairy-free or vegan, you can still enjoy this indulgent treat by making a few simple substitutions. Replace the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. For the heavy cream in the caramel, use full-fat coconut milk or a non-dairy whipping cream. Also, be sure to use a dairy-free chocolate. The result is just as rich and satisfying as the traditional version.
3. Salted Caramel Mocha Hot Chocolate
For those who love coffee, adding a shot of espresso or a strong brewed coffee to your hot chocolate can create a delicious salted caramel mocha. The coffee adds a slightly bitter note that complements the sweetness of the caramel and the richness of the chocolate. This variation is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a dessert beverage.
4. Mexican Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
For a spicier take, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon and a dash of cayenne pepper to your hot chocolate. The warmth of the spices adds a new dimension to the drink, making it even more comforting and complex. This variation is inspired by traditional Mexican hot chocolate, which often includes spices to enhance the flavor.
5. White Chocolate Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
If youโre a fan of white chocolate, you can swap out the milk chocolate for white chocolate in this recipe. The result is a sweeter, creamier drink with the same salted caramel flavor. This version is particularly lovely when topped with a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings.
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Storage
If you find yourself with leftover hot chocolate, donโt worryโthis decadent drink can be stored and enjoyed later. Hereโs how to store it properly:
1. Refrigeration
Salted caramel hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow the hot chocolate to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When youโre ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the hot chocolate on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until itโs warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to its original consistency.
2. Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze salted caramel hot chocolate. Pour the cooled hot chocolate into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When youโre ready to enjoy it, thaw the hot chocolate in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
3. Serving Leftovers
When serving reheated hot chocolate, consider refreshing the toppings to make it feel like a freshly made treat. Add a new dollop of whipped cream, a fresh drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the experience.
The Perfect Pairings
Caramel hot chocolate is delicious on its own, but if youโre looking to create a more substantial treat, consider pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas:
1. Shortbread Cookies
The buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread cookies pairs perfectly with the richness of salted caramel hot chocolate. The mild sweetness of the cookies allows the complex flavors of the hot chocolate to shine.
2. Pretzels
For a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, serve your hot chocolate with some pretzels. The crunchy, salty pretzels highlight the salted caramel aspect of the drink, creating a satisfying sweet-and-salty experience.
3. Brownies
For an ultra-decadent treat, pair your hot chocolate with a fudgy brownie. The dense, chocolatey richness of the brownie complements the drink beautifully, making it a perfect dessert combo.
Did you enjoy this recipe? Why not try out our delicious caramel loaf cake!
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate ๐โ๏ธ
Ingredients
For the Hot Chocolate
- 1 Cup Milk
- 1.2 oz or 35g Milk Chocolate/Chocolate of Choice
- 2 Tsp Salted Caramel Sauce (recipe also on my blog)
Toppings
- A Couple Marshmallows
- Extra Salted Caramel Sauce
Instructions
For the Hot Chocolate
- Start by measuring 1 cup of milk into a sauce pan along with your chocolate and 1 tsp of caramel sauce1 Cup Milk, 1.2 oz or 35g Milk Chocolate/Chocolate of Choice, 2 Tsp Salted Caramel Sauce
- Place your hot chocolate on medium-high heat until everything is melted and combined
- While you hot chocolate is warming up, take the rest of your caramel (around 1 tsp) and spread it around the sides of your desired mug
- Once everything has melted pour your hot chocolate into your prepared mug
Toppings
- Top you hot chocolate with marshmallows and more caramel sauceA Couple Marshmallows, Extra Salted Caramel Sauce
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Video
And thatโs just about it for this blog post! Did you like this recipe? Have any thoughts or questions? Leave us a comment below or email us on [email protected] ๐
Donโt forget to sign up to our email list below where you can receive a free notion meal planner template and a blog post writing checklist ๐ซ
Leave a Reply