Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe

If you’re anything like me and crave a warm, comforting drink on a chilly day, you’re going to absolutely adore this Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe. It’s velvety smooth, rich with chocolatey goodness, and topped with those fluffy marshmallows that just melt into pure heaven. Whether you’re curling up with a good book or entertaining friends, this hot chocolate will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe calls for simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Using whole milk or 2% gives it just the right creaminess without being too heavy, and the sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and richness all at once.

• Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but 2% is a fine option if you want it a bit lighter.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is key for that luscious, velvety texture and perfect sweetness without adding granulated sugar.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use good quality cocoa powder – it really makes a difference in the depth of chocolate flavor.
• Marshmallows: Large marshmallows melt wonderfully on top, but mini ones work great too if you prefer little bursts of sweetness.

Variations

I love how flexible this Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe is. I often change it up depending on the season or what mood I’m in. Feel free to get creative—you’ll find that little tweaks make a big difference.

• Spiced Hot Chocolate: When I want a cozy twist, I add a pinch of cinnamon and a dash of cayenne pepper—it adds warmth and a subtle kick that’s so comforting.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap the milk for almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative—I tested it and was pleasantly surprised how rich it still tastes.
• Mint Chocolate: Stir in a drop or two of peppermint extract at the end and top with crushed candy canes during the holidays; my family goes crazy for this fresh flavor combo.
• Extra Chocolatey: For when you just need more cocoa, add some chopped semi-sweet chocolate to the pot as it warms for an ultra decadent version.

How to Make Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Base Chocolate Mixture

Start by mixing the sweetened condensed milk and unsweetened cocoa powder in a small bowl. Whisk this really well so that there are no lumps, and it forms a smooth, chocolatey paste. I discovered this trick because if the cocoa powder doesn’t dissolve properly, you get gritty spots that nobody wants in their hot chocolate.

Step 2: Warm the Milk Slowly

Pour the milk into a large saucepan and heat it over medium heat. You want it to be warm and inviting, not boiling. Once it starts steaming, gradually whisk in the chocolate paste from Step 1. Keep stirring so that everything blends perfectly. If you rush this or let the milk boil, the chocolate can scorch—been there, ruined a batch, and learned my lesson!

Step 3: Heat Until Steamy and Serve

Lower your heat to medium-low and keep stirring continuously for about 5 to 7 minutes until the hot chocolate is steaming hot but not boiling. Ladle it into mugs, and here’s the best part—top with a generous handful of marshmallows. Watch them slowly melt into that creamy chocolate swirl—pure bliss.

How to Serve Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it classic with large marshmallows that slowly melt into the surface, but sometimes I add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a little warmth. On special occasions, a drizzle of caramel or a dollop of whipped cream is a total game changer—your guests will think you stepped up your coffee shop game!

Side Dishes

My go-to side with this creamy treat is buttery shortbread cookies or warm cinnamon rolls. If I’m feeling extra indulgent, chocolate chip biscotti works beautifully for dunking. You’ll find these combos make cozy nights even more special.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I love serving this hot chocolate in mason jars with cute striped straws and festive marshmallow shapes (think stars or snowflakes). Another fun idea is layering different colored marshmallows or adding peppermint sticks as stirrers—it’s a visual and tasty treat that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover hot chocolate stores well in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. I always make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to keep the texture fresh. When you’re ready, give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

Though I haven’t tried freezing this exact recipe myself, hot chocolate with dairy can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. If you want to try, freeze in airtight containers and thaw slowly in the fridge overnight, then whisk well before warming gently.

Reheating

I prefer reheating on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently so it doesn’t scorch or develop a skin. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, to keep it smooth and creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows Recipe turns out every single time—it’s like a warm hug in a mug. When I first tried it, I was blown away by how rich and silky it is, yet surprisingly simple to make. It’s been my family’s go-to during the colder months and whenever someone needs a little pick-me-up. I really hope you’ll give it a try and make it your own cozy tradition, just like I did!

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