Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Satisfy your sweet cravings with this rich and decadent Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate recipe. Crafted with luxurious chocolate and luscious caramel, this warm beverage is topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect sweet and salty balance. Perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday gatherings, it’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite that everyone will adore.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-21T07:25:41.749Z

This Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate recipe combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of caramel and a pinch of sea salt, creating a warm drink perfect for cold nights.

A Warm Winter Favorite

As the chilly winter months approach, nothing warms the soul quite like a rich cup of hot chocolate. Our Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate elevates this classic drink to new heights, making it the perfect choice for cozy evenings by the fire. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply indulging after a long day, this indulgent treat is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and become a beloved staple in your winter routine.

This delicious beverage is not only about taste; it's also about comfort. The creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor create a comforting embrace that wraps around you, making every sip feel like a warm hug. When you add the sweetness of caramel and the surprising hint of sea salt, you achieve a blissful balance that is as delightful to your palate as it is soothing to your spirit.

Perfect for Gathering

This Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is a fantastic addition to any gathering, whether it’s a festive holiday party or a cozy get-together with friends. Its rich flavors and enticing aroma will welcome guests as they arrive, sparking joy and excitement. Serve it in attractive mugs and watch as everyone savors this delightful twist on a time-honored favorite.

Pair this hot chocolate with a selection of sweet treats, such as cookies or brownies, for an unforgettable dessert bar. You could even set up a DIY hot chocolate station, where guests can customize their drinks with whipped cream, extra caramel, or flavored syrups. This interactive element not only makes the experience more engaging but also allows everyone to enjoy the drink just the way they like it.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit individual preferences or dietary restrictions. For a dairy-free version, simply substitute almond, coconut, or oat milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors without compromise.

For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Irish cream or Bailey’s, to turn this hot chocolate into a delightful evening treat. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as peppermint or hazelnut, to create unique variations. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that this recipe can adapt to various tastes and occasions.

Ingredients

Hot Chocolate Ingredients

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Sea salt for topping

Enjoy your delicious drink!

Instructions

Heat Milk and Cream

In a saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until warm, but do not boil.

Add Chocolate

Stir in the chocolate chips and keep stirring until melted and smooth.

Mix in Caramel and Vanilla

Add the caramel sauce and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.

Serve and Top

Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, topping each with a sprinkle of sea salt. Drizzle additional caramel on top if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

To make your Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate experience even more enjoyable, consider adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. This creamy addition enhances the drink's richness, providing a delightful contrast with the warm chocolate beneath. For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle some cocoa powder or more sea salt over the whipped cream to elevate the presentation.

Don’t forget to include various toppings when serving! Mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, and crushed candy canes can add fun textures and flavors to every cup. Create a topping bar and let everyone personalize their hot chocolate according to their whims, making the experience even more memorable.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate (which is rare!), you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir well before serving to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.

To maintain the drink's luxurious texture, consider adding a splash of milk during reheating. This will help restore the consistency and prevent any separation. A gentle stir will bring the flavors back to life, allowing you to enjoy its rich taste just as you did on the first day.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can substitute any non-dairy milk for a delicious vegan version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat before serving.

Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

Satisfy your sweet cravings with this rich and decadent Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate recipe. Crafted with luxurious chocolate and luscious caramel, this warm beverage is topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect sweet and salty balance. Perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday gatherings, it’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite that everyone will adore.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Hot Chocolate Ingredients

  1. 2 cups milk
  2. 1 cup heavy cream
  3. 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  4. 1/4 cup caramel sauce
  5. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  6. Sea salt for topping

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until warm, but do not boil.

Step 02

Stir in the chocolate chips and keep stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 03

Add the caramel sauce and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.

Step 04

Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, topping each with a sprinkle of sea salt. Drizzle additional caramel on top if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 25g
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Protein: 8g