Recipe

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Rich and creamy caramel hot cocoa, perfect for cold winter nights. You’ll be warm and cozy in no time.

All the flavors of chocolate, buttery caramel, vanilla, and frothy milk make this easy Caramel Hot Cocoa recipe an unforgettable treat.

two glass mugs of caramel hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce

Caramel Hot Chocolate

This homemade Caramel Hot Cocoa recipe is perfect for those cold days when you crave hot cocoa but want to stay home. Instead of melting chocolate and milk to make hot chocolate, I like using cocoa powder in this recipe because it works well with the caramel’s richness.

It’s also a lighter option that tastes just as indulgent, thanks to my homemade caramel sauce. The final result is a dreamy hot beverage that’s not too overpowering, with room for delicious hot cocoa toppings!

Ingredients

Make this beverage with unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar for sweetness, and any dairy or non-dairy milk (if you're all out, check out my recipe for hot chocolate with water). I also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors, and my homemade caramel sauce (or one from the store).

How to Make Caramel Hot Cocoa

As you do with regular hot cocoa, mix cocoa powder, sugar, water, and salt in a saucepan and bring to a simmer while stirring. Add milk and caramel, and continue stirring, making sure it doesn’t boil to prevent burning. Serve with my homemade marshmallows, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings. If you need to keep your hot cocoa warm, check out these tips!

More Hot Cocoa Recipes

You can give this recipe a tasty twist and make salted caramel hot chocolate, or try other delicious variations, such as nutella hot chocolate, ginger hot cocoa, and hot chocolate mocha.

Caramel Hot Cocoa

Servings: 4

Cook Time: 8

Total Time: 8

Rich and creamy caramel hot cocoa, perfect for cold winter nights. You'll be warm and cozy in no time.

5 from 8 votes

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Ingredients

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
⅓ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup hot water
⅓ teaspoon salt
4 cups milk, dairy or non-dairy
3 tablespoons caramel sauce

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, water, and salt over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly until smooth, and bring mixture to a simmer.
Reduce heat, and stir in the milk and caramel. Continue to whisk to dissolve the caramel sauce but do not boil.
Once the caramel has incorporated itself into the hot cocoa, turn off the heat and serve immediately.