If you love cozy drinks with a sweet twist, salted caramel hot chocolate might just become your new favorite. It combines the rich, creamy flavors of classic hot chocolate with a hint of salty caramel that makes every sip special. This recipe is easy to make at home and uses just a few simple ingredients to bring warmth and comfort to any chilly day.
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Making salted caramel hot chocolate lets you skip the coffee shop lines while enjoying a delicious treat anytime you want. Whether you’re curled up with a good book or sharing a cup with friends, this drink is a perfect way to add a little indulgence to your day.
You’ll find the right balance of sweet and salty in every mug. Once you try it, you might find it hard to go back to plain hot chocolate!
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Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Recipe
This recipe shows you how to make a creamy, rich hot chocolate with a sweet and salty caramel twist. You’ll find everything you need—from exact ingredients to simple steps—and tips to get the flavor just right.
Ingredients
To make salted caramel hot chocolate, you will need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of your choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream for extra creaminess
- 1/2 cup bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, if you want it sweeter)
- Whipped cream or mini marshmallows for topping (optional)
For tools, have ready a medium saucepan, a whisk or spoon, a heatproof mug, and a measuring cup. A small bowl for mixing caramel and salt will help if you want to control the saltiness carefully.
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Step-By-Step Instructions
Start by heating the milk and cream in the saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently so it does not burn. Once warm, add the chocolate chips and whisk until melted and smooth.
Next, stir in the caramel sauce and sea salt. Keep whisking until the caramel blends fully and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste it; if you want it sweeter, add sugar slowly.
Pour the hot chocolate into your mug. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows for extra coziness. You can drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for a pretty finish.
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Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Flavor
Use good-quality chocolate and real caramel sauce for the best taste. Sea salt is important because it adds a balanced saltiness that enhances the caramel.
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Start with just 1/4 teaspoon salt, then taste and adjust. Too much salt can overpower the drink, so add little by little if needed.
Warm your milk slowly to avoid burning. Stir often to keep everything smooth. If you want richer hot chocolate, add more chocolate or a splash of heavy cream.
Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy it as a cozy treat any time.
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Homemade Caramel Sauce for Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces and at room temperature
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
- 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and stir constantly with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon until it melts into a thick amber-colored liquid. Once the sugar is fully melted, carefully stir in the butter.
The mixture will bubble up, so keep stirring until the butter is melted and combined. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring. The sauce will bubble vigorously, then smooth out into a creamy caramel.
Stir in the sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty balance. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before using. Store leftovers in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and reheat gently before serving.
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How to use:
Stir a spoonful into your hot chocolate for caramel flavor, drizzle on top of whipped cream for a pretty finish, or save extra for ice cream, brownies, or apple slices.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To make your salted caramel hot chocolate extra special, you can add toppings or adjust the recipe to fit different dietary needs. Small changes can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Topping Ideas
Try topping your hot chocolate with whipped cream for a creamy, smooth layer. Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream for a richer taste.
Mini marshmallows are a classic choice. They melt slowly, adding softness and sweetness to every sip. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed nuts or cinnamon on top.
You can also stir in a candy cane stick or gingerbread cookie on the side for a festive touch. A scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn your drink into a cold-and-hot dessert float.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
If you want to make this drink without dairy, use plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk. These options keep the drink creamy while fitting vegan or lactose-free diets.
Instead of regular caramel sauce, look for a vegan caramel or make your own using coconut milk and cane sugar. Use dairy-free whipped cream to finish it off.
For chocolate, pick dairy-free dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder to keep the chocolate flavor rich without milk ingredients. This way, you get a smooth, tasty hot chocolate everyone can enjoy.
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