Best Red Velvet Hot Chocolate

The Best Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is a rich, velvety, and decadent drink that transforms your ordinary hot chocolate craving into an extraordinary experience, perfect for cozy evenings or a special treat. This recipe offers a delightful blend of deep chocolate flavor and the iconic tangy sweetness of red velvet, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 cups

Course: Beverage, Dessert

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for caramel sauce)
1/4 cup heavy cream (for caramel sauce)
1/4 cup finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel is recommended for vibrant color)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch salt

Optional toppings

whipped cream
chocolate shavings
drizzle of cream cheese frosting
maraschino cherry

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Small Saucepan

Method

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until well combined and no lumps remain.
2 cups whole milk, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the mixture heats up, ensuring it doesn't boil. Heat until it's steaming and small bubbles form around the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate, softened cream cheese, and unsalted butter to the warm milk mixture. Continue to stir gently until all the chocolate, butter, and cream cheese have melted completely and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
1/4 cup finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate, 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Stir in the red food coloring, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to stir until the color is evenly distributed and a beautiful vibrant red hue is achieved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
1 teaspoon red food coloring, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch salt
While the hot chocolate is heating, prepare a quick caramel drizzle. In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it bubble. Cook until it turns an amber color, watching closely to prevent burning. Carefully and slowly whisk in the heavy cream. It will bubble vigorously. Stir until smooth.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup heavy cream
Pour the Best Red Velvet Hot Chocolate into your favorite mugs. Drizzle with the quick caramel sauce, if desired.
Garnish generously with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, a dollop of cream cheese frosting, or a maraschino cherry for an extra touch of indulgence.
whipped cream, chocolate shavings, drizzle of cream cheese frosting, maraschino cherry

Notes

Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling.