Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
This creamy red velvet hot chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink to warm you up on chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces cream cheese optional, at room temperature
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 8 ounces coarsely chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 to 6 drops red food coloring gel works best for vibrant color
For the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream:
- 2 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream chilled
Optional Toppings:
- Red sprinkles
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Make the Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
- Start by gathering all your ingredients.
- If you’re using cream cheese, blend it with 1 cup of milk in a blender until smooth. (Alternatively, use a stick blender directly in a medium saucepan.)
- Pour the cream cheese mixture (if using) into a medium saucepan along with the remaining milk, cream, brown sugar, white chocolate, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the white chocolate melts and the cocoa powder is fully incorporated. The hot chocolate should be creamy and smooth.
- Add a few drops of red food coloring and whisk it in. Adjust the color by adding more drops until you achieve a deep, rich red that reminds you of red velvet cake.
Make the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream
- Gather the whipped cream ingredients.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer with a whisk attachment, whip the mixture on medium speed until smooth and free of lumps.
- Gradually add the heavy cream while the mixer is running, and continue whipping until the mixture holds firm peaks. This cream cheese whipped cream is extra stable, making it perfect for scooping or piping onto your hot chocolate.
Serve and Enjoy
- Pour the red velvet hot chocolate into mugs, leaving space at the top for whipped cream. Add a generous dollop of cream cheese whipped cream, and sprinkle with red sprinkles or chocolate shavings for a festive touch. Grab a cozy blanket, and enjoy every sip!
Notes
How to Serve Your Creamy Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
This red velvet hot chocolate is a showstopper on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it alongside cookies, biscotti, or even a slice of red velvet cake for a fun theme.
Hosting a holiday gathering? Set up a hot chocolate bar with toppings like marshmallows, crushed candy canes, and flavored syrups.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If you have leftover red velvet hot chocolate, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, whisking occasionally, or microwave it in 30-second intervals until hot.
The whipped cream can also be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep it covered in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before using.
Top Tips for Customizing Your Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of regular milk and cream, and opt for dairy-free white chocolate chips.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar slightly or use unsweetened white chocolate instead.
Add a hint of spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg gives this drink a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for winter.
Play with the color: For a fun twist, experiment with different food coloring shades, for baby shower pink for girl or blue for boy!