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Caramel Hot Cocoa

by Laura Fuentes

November 26, 2020
updated Jul 10, 2023
5 from 8 votes
All the flavors of chocolate, buttery caramel, vanilla, and frothy milk make this caramel hot cocoa an unforgettable treat. 
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All the articles & recipes on this website have been created through real-life testing and experience (no ai) since 2010. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

All the flavors of chocolate, buttery caramel, vanilla, and frothy milk make this caramel hot cocoa an unforgettable treat.

Topped with whipped cream and extra homemade caramel drizzle, you’ll be warm and cozy in no time.

two clear mugs of hot cocoa topped with whipped topping and caramel drizzle

There’s nothing wrong with going to the local coffee shop or drive-thru for a caramel-chocolatey drink topped with whipped cream and all the fixings, but this homemade recipe is perfect for those cold days when you want to stay home.

It’s also a lighter option that tastes just as indulgent thanks to my homemade caramel sauce and hot cocoa recipe.

We often use hot chocolate and hot cocoa interchangeably, but the two are different. Instead of melting chocolate and milk, hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder for a light consistency and flavor. I like using hot cocoa for this recipe because it works well with the caramel’s richness. 

The final result is a dreamy hot beverage that’s not too overpowering, with room for delicious hot chocolate toppings like whipped cream and marshmallows. 

How to Make Caramel Hot Cocoa

Making caramel hot cocoa is no different from regular hot cocoa. All you need are a medium saucepan, whisk, and the step-by-step directions below: 

  1. Mix
    Combine the cocoa powder, sugar, water, and salt in a medium saucepan, over medium heat. Bring to a simmer while constantly stirring until smooth.
  2. Stir
    Reduce the heat, and stir in the milk and caramel. Continue to whisk and make sure the mixture doesn’t boil.
  3. Serve
    Once the caramel dissolves into the hot cocoa, remove from heat and serve. 

If you need ideas to help you keep your hot cocoa warm, check out this post!

Best Caramel Sauce for Hot Chocolate and Cocoa

When it comes to the best caramel sauce for hot chocolate and cocoa, I’ve got to mention my dairy-free caramel sauce. It’s is velvety smooth, and buttery sweet but made with no milk, cream, or butter. Instead, the silky consistency and golden color come from coconut cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. 

With an ingredient list like that, it made it into my Clean Treats Cookbook along with other recipes for baked goods, chocolate recipes, ice cream, and everything in between- all of them made without refined sugars, flour, or dairy. But the caramel is essential, and I find this version is even tastier than the classic recipe. 

It’s a cinch to whip up on the stove-top, but if you don’t have the time or ingredients available, regular storebought caramel will do the trick. 

Topping Caramel Hot Cocoa

To make any cup of hot cocoa complete, we need toppings like: 

  • whipped cream
  • extra caramel drizzle
  • marshmallows
  • cinnamon
  • shaved chocolate
  • coarse sea salt (for some salted caramel action)

Caramel Hot Cocoa

Laura Fuentes
5 from 8 votes
All the flavors of chocolate, buttery caramel, vanilla, and frothy milk make this caramel hot cocoa an unforgettable treat. 
Servings: 4 servings

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.

Equipment

Clean Treats Cookbook
purple yeti mug
Hot cocoa for hours!

Nutrition

Serving: 1mugCalories: 186kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 9.4gFat: 0.9gSaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 4.9mgSodium: 230mgFiber: 1.6gSugar: 36.3g
Like this recipe?Rate and leave a comment below

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  • Dairy-Free Hot Cocoa Mix
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    How to Keep Hot Chocolate Warm
  • Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

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