Indulge in the rich and velvety goodness of salted caramel hot chocolate this winter. This sweet treat has taken the world by storm, and for good reason – the combination of smooth chocolate, salty caramel, and creamy whipped cream is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking to cozy up with a warm cup on a chilly day or impress your friends with a unique dessert at your next gathering, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of salted caramel hot chocolate recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic and straightforward to creative twists and boozy additions, we’ve gathered 18 irresistible recipes that showcase the best of this beloved treat. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Warm up with a rich and indulgent treat that combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the sweetness of caramel and the crunch of sea salt. This Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream is perfect for a chilly evening or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and sea salt. Whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour into mugs and top with caramel sauce and whipped cream (if using). Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for added crunch.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a rich and creamy Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. This decadent drink is perfect for cold winter days or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Add milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in salt, caramel sauce, and chocolate chips.
3. Cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour.
4. Stir well before serving. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (LOW) or 1 hour (HIGH)
Enjoy your creamy and indulgent Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate!
Vegan Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Warm up with this rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with the sweetness of caramel and a touch of saltiness. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon vegan caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the non-dairy milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and caramel sauce.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiked Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Bourbon
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this rich and indulgent recipe featuring the smoothness of bourbon, the sweetness of salted caramel, and the warmth of a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 ounces bourbon whiskey (optional, but highly recommended!)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat.
2. Add in heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, sea salt, and caramel sauce. Stir until smooth.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until desired temperature is reached.
4. If using bourbon, stir it in just before serving.
5. Ladle into mugs and top with whipped cream and chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a rich and creamy Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate that combines the sweetness of caramel with the savory flavor of sea salt. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1-2 teaspoons caramel sauce (depending on desired level of sweetness)
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until warm.
2. Remove from heat and add in white chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
3. Add in butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk until combined.
4. Stir in caramel sauce to desired level of sweetness.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Mocha Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this rich and decadent treat that combines the warmth of caramel, the depth of mocha, and a touch of saltiness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole or skim)
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and crushed nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. Add the coffee, butter, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in the caramel sauce and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
5. Top with whipped cream and crushed nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows
Warm up with this rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with the sweetness of caramel and a hint of salt, topped with fluffy marshmallows. Perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Marshmallows for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and butter over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk mixture.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in caramel sauce until fully incorporated.
6. Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa
Transform your winter nights into a chocolatey haven with this rich and indulgent Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa. Perfectly balanced flavors of dark chocolate, caramel, and salt will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– Whipped cream and sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Remove from heat and stir in dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Add caramel sauce and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Espresso
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this indulgent recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. This Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Espresso is a must-try for coffee lovers and those who crave something special.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons high-quality dark cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 shots strong espresso
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and caramel sauce until well incorporated.
4. Pour in espresso shots and whisk until frothy.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional caramel sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Coconut Milk
Rich, velvety hot chocolate infused with the deep flavors of salted caramel and the creaminess of coconut milk. Perfect for a chilly day or a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought), for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the coconut milk and whole milk over low heat.
2. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in melted butter, vanilla extract, and flaky sea salt.
4. Pour into mugs and drizzle with salted caramel sauce (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon
Warm up on a chilly day with this rich and decadent hot chocolate recipe, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon.
4. Add the butter and whisk until melted.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or heavy cream, if desired.
6. Drizzle with salted caramel sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Hazelnut Syrup
Warm up with a rich and indulgent Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate infused with the nutty flavor of hazelnut syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups hot chocolate mix
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 teaspoons hazelnut syrup (depending on desired strength)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the milk and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually add the hot chocolate mix, whisking constantly.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salt, caramel syrup, and vanilla extract.
6. Whisk in hazelnut syrup until well combined.
7. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Peppermint
Warm up with this decadent hot chocolate that combines the richness of caramel and saltiness with the invigorating zing of peppermint. Perfect for a chilly winter evening or a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. Add butter, coffee powder, and sugar; whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in salted caramel sauce and peppermint extract.
4. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Sea Salt Topping
Warm up on a chilly day with this indulgent hot chocolate recipe, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. The sea salt topping adds a delightful textural element to this velvety drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder (or 1 teaspoon freshly brewed coffee)
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Freshly grated sea salt, for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the butter, sugar, coffee powder (or brewed coffee), and sea salt. Whisk until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.
4. Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and well combined.
5. Stir in the caramel sauce.
6. Pour into mugs and top with freshly grated sea salt.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Dulce de Leche
Rich and decadent, this Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Dulce de Leche is the perfect treat for a chilly day. With its deep caramel flavor and touch of salt, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– Whipped cream, optional
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. Add cocoa powder and sugar; whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in dulce de leche until melted and well combined.
4. Remove from heat; add salt and whisk to combine.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Vanilla Bean
This decadent hot chocolate recipe combines the warmth of caramel with the subtle sweetness of vanilla bean, finished with a touch of flaky sea salt. Perfect for a chilly winter evening or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel syrup (such as dulce de leche or caramel sauce)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa solids)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add butter, sugar, caramel syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in flaky sea salt and kosher salt.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Combine hot chocolate mixture with melted chocolate. Stir until well combined.
6. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Toasted Coconut
Cozy up with this decadent hot chocolate recipe, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, topped with toasted coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
– 1/2 cup caramel syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– Whipped cream and additional toasted coconut flakes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and flaky sea salt. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the caramel syrup until fully incorporated.
5. Pour into mugs and top with toasted coconut flakes. If desired, add whipped cream and additional toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Cookie Crumbles
Warm up on a chilly day with this rich and decadent hot chocolate infused with the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Crunchy cookie crumbs add a delightful textural element to this indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup crushed cookies (e.g. chocolate sandwich, peanut butter or oatmeal raisin)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in caramel syrup, coffee powder (if using), vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Pour into mugs and top with crushed cookies.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the most decadent and delicious salted caramel hot chocolate recipes! From classic whipped cream toppings to spiked bourbon variations, these irresistible treats will satisfy your sweet tooth. Try Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate for a hands-off approach or opt for Vegan Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate for a dairy-free treat. For an extra boost of flavor, add some hazelnut syrup or toasted coconut flakes. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a salted caramel hot chocolate recipe here to make your winter wonderland cozy and delicious.
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