Breakfast Drinks Archives - mom makes dinner

Starbucks Cool Lime Refresher

Kelley — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 23:20:22 +0000

Summer is my favorite time to whip up chilled fruity drinks and this copycat Starbucks Cool Lime Refresher is certainly top of list! This homemade lime refresher is made with freshly squeezed lime juice, water, fresh cucumber and mint, sugar, and lime slices.

Do you have a go-to summer drink? We love a good lemonade, but I feel like this cool lime refresher is everything. It’s so good and super easy to make with a few common ingredients.

Once the water and fresh cucumber-lime has been infused, it’s just a matter of adding the lime juice, sugar, and lime slices. Pour this tasty refresher over a glass of ice and enjoy your very own Starbucks lime refresher!

Ever since Starbucks took the lime refresher off the menu, I knew I had to start making my own, and I’m so glad I did. It’s loaded with the same amount of flavor as the real deal, is budget-friendly, and incredibly easy.

What is a Cool Lime Refresher?

A lime refresher is a drink that typically contains lime juice (or lime flavoring) mixed with water and sweetened with sugar or a sweetener of preference. They are served immediately once mixed over ice to be enjoyed chilled.

Depending on the recipe, lime refreshers can include additional ingredients such as fresh fruit and herbs. I’ve added fresh mint and cucumber to my copycat Starbucks lime refresher.

Starbucks Lime Refresher Ingredients

0.25 cups of mint
3-4 limes
0.5 cups cucumber
2 cups of water
1 tbsp. of brown sugar
1 cups of ice

Ingredient Notes

Mint – You will need fresh mint for this recipe. You can find it in the produce area of most grocery stores. You only need a little, so save the rest for some homemade mint chocolate chip ice cream!

Limes – Fresh limes are needed for this lime refresher. I do not suggest using lime concentrate here.

Brown Sugar – Feel free to use regular brown sugar or a brown sugar substitute.

How to Make a Cool Lime Refresher at Home

Step 1: Wash and chop the mint finely, peel the cucumber and cut it into small cubes, and cut circles from part of the lime.

Step 2: Place a combination of cucumber and mint in a jug with water and allow it to infuse for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Squeeze lime juice into the infused mixture. Strain through a sieve and add the sweetener.

Step 4: Add ice to each glass, lime slices, and mint leaves. Serve!

Other Starbucks Refreshers to Try

Recipe FAQs

Did Starbucks Discontinue the Lime Refresher?

Yes, sadly, Starbucks did discontinue the lime refresher despite it being one of their top refreshers. It was replaced by the Mango Dragonfruit Refresher.

Is There Caffeine in the Cool Lime Refresher?

In the Starbucks version, there is caffeine. I haven’t included caffeine in this copycat recipe, though.

Starbucks typically includes caffeine in their refresher drinks in the form green coffee extract, made from unroasted beans. The green bean extract doesn’t leave a bitter taste commonly associated with brewed coffee but you’ll still get a lovely boost of energy.

Can I Make a Pitcher of It?

Absolutely! Triple the recipe to make enough to serve in a pitcher instead of individual serving glasses.

Can I Add Different Fruit?

Yes! This lime refresher can be adapted to include other types of fruit too. While it won’t be a lime refresher in the strictest sense, it’s still going to be a deliciously fruity and refreshing summer drink!

Consider adding mango, pineapple, or oranges to this recipe. Other fruit such as raspberries and blackberries will provide a tart and sour taste, while strawberries will add a kick of sweetness. You will need to blend these kinds of fruit if you decide to use them when making a different refresher beverage.

Cool Lime Refresher

Yield: 1 drink

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Additional Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Make this delicious copycat drink at home! Super refreshing and easy to make.

Ingredients

1/4 cups of mint
3-4 limes (for juice and for serving)
1/2 cups of chopped and peeled cucumber
2 cups of water
1 tbsp. of brown sugar (or other sweetener to taste)
1 cups of ice

Instructions

Wash the mint, chop finely. Peel the cucumber, cut into small cubes, cut a part of the lime into circles.
Pour a mixture of cucumber and mint into a jug, pour water, leave to infuse for 15-20 minutes.
Squeeze lime juice.
Strain the infused mint-cucumber water through a sieve. Add sweetener.
Add ice, lime slices and mint leaves. Arrange a drink to serve.

Other Starbucks Copycat Drinks to Try

You know we love a good Starbucks copycat drink around here. Some of our other favorites are:

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the comments below or the recipe card above. Want to make it later? Pin the image below to your favorite board!

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Pumpkin Spice Shake

Kelley — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000

It’s that time of year again when pumpkin spice fever runs high. The leaves are changing color, the air is getting cooler, and Starbucks is releasing their pumpkin spice lattes again. If you’re like me and love all things pumpkin spice, then you’ll love this pumpkin shake recipe.

It’s simple to make and tastes delicious! Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat or as a snack in the afternoon, this shake will definitely satisfy your cravings for all things pumpkin spice. So gather up your ingredients and get ready to stir up some fall flavor!

What is a Pumpkin Spice Shake?

One of the most popular ways to enjoy the flavor of pumpkin spice is in a delicious shake. But what exactly is a pumpkin spice shake? Pumpkin spice shakes are typically made with ice cream or frozen yogurt, milk, and pumpkin puree, and are then topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This healthier version uses frozen bananas in place of the ice cream.

Some places also add a shot of espresso to make a pumpkin spice latte shake. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a decadent dessert, a pumpkin spice shake is sure to hit the spot.

Pumpkin Spice Shake Ingredients

Milk-You can use any milk you like in this recipe including dairy free options like soy milk, almond milk, oat milk, rice milk, or coconut milk.
Pumpkin puree– I use pumpkin puree from a can to make this recipe super quick and easy. But, you can make pumpkin puree from scratch if you prefer.
Pumpkin pie spice-I like to use my Homemade Pumpkin Spice, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
Frozen bananas– You want your bananas to be frozen so it keeps the whole shake cold and shake-like.
Whipped cream– Whipped cream is totally optional, but it adds a nice touch to your prepared pumpkin spice shake.

How to Make A Pumpkin Spice Shake

This recipe is so easy, you’ll want to make it everyday for a snack or quick and easy breakfast option. Follow the steps below!

Step 1: Put Ingredients in the Blender

Put the milk, pumpkin puree, spice, and frozen bananas into the blender.

Step 2: Blend Everything

Blend all the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If it is too watery, add ¼ cup of ice and blend again.

Step 3: Serve & Enjoy

Pour your shake into a glass and top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. Enjoy!

Other Pumpkin Flavored Drinks to Try

Love a good pumpkin spice drink during the fall? Some of my other favorite drinks are:

How Many Calories are in a Pumpkin Spice Shake?

A typical pumpkin spice shake can range from 400-600 calories. However, this will vary depending on the size of the shake and the ingredients used. For example, if the shake is made with nonfat milk and ice cream, it will likely be on the lower end of the calorie spectrum.

What is Pumpkin Spice?

Pumpkin spice is a flavor made up of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger. It is often used to flavor pumpkin pies and other fall desserts. You can find it in most supermarkets, as well as many online retailers. You can also find pumpkin spice in some coffee shops and restaurants.

Can You Make Milkshakes Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can! All you have to do is blend up your shake, pour it into a glass, and then stick it in the freezer. Be sure to let it sit out for about 5-minutes or so before it will be drinkable again. You can do this with leftovers as well, but if you are leaving it in the freezer for more than a couple hours, be sure to put the shake in a freezer-proof, airtight container.

Can this be Made Dairy Free?

And if you want it to be dairy free – sub the milk for almond or coconut milk. It will be just as delicious and even healthier for you. Oh and use non-dairy whipped cream too. Or no whipped cream if you want to be extra super healthy.

Pumpkin Spice Shake

Ingredients

1 cup of milk (See above on dairy free options)
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
2 frozen bananas
Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

Toss everything into a blender and blend until creamy. If too watery, add 1/4 cup of ice.

Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice.

Enjoy!

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below. Want to try it later? Pin the image below to your favorite food board!

Like this recipe? Be sure to check out:

Pumpkin spice chai latte

Pumpkin pie coffee creamer

Pumpkin spice latte – Starbucks copycat!

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Strawberry Refresher

Kelley — Mon, 30 May 2022 05:31:42 +0000

Summer is in full swing and that means hot days and thirst quenching drinks. If you are looking for a refreshing drink to cool down with, this Starbucks Strawberry Refresher is the perfect option.

As much as I love stopping at the ‘bucks for a drink – it’s cheaper to make them at home. Most of my copycat Starbucks drinks are simple to make too! You probably spend more time waiting in line at the drive thru than making one at home. This strawberry refresher is just one example of how easy it is to make a copycat coffee house drink at home in no time!

What is a Starbucks Strawberry Refresher?

A Starbucks Strawberry Refresher is a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for any time of day. Made with frozen strawberries, it is a great way to enjoy the fruit without all the calories.

Starbucks also adds a special blend of spices to give the drink an extra zing. The result is a refreshing and flavor-packed drink that is perfect for hot summer days or cold winter nights. Whether you are looking for a quick pick-me-up or a relaxing treat, Starbucks Strawberry Refresher is sure to hit the spot.

Strawberry Refresher Ingredients

The best part about this recipe is that you won’t really need many ingredients to have a cool refreshing drink. Here’s what you’ll need:

Strawberries– For this recipe, I used frozen strawberries. You could use fresh strawberries if you choose.
Coconut milk– With coconut milk, you can expect the milk to have a slight coconut flavor, but not too much.
Sugar– You’ll want to use granulated sugar to add a sweet flavor to your drink.
Vanilla– I used pure vanilla extract for this recipe, but you could use imitation vanilla extract to add flavor if that’s all you have.
Ice– Ice is what makes this drink cool and refreshing.

How to Make a Strawberry Refresher

You can have a delicious Starbucks strawberry refresher whipped up in about 5-minutes. Follow the steps below!

Step 1: Add Sweetness to the Strawberries

First, add 1 ½ cups of frozen strawberries to a mixing bowl. Then, add the sugar and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Blend the Strawberries

Blend the strawberries on high speed until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Coconut Milk

Add the coconut milk to the strawberries. Mix it in using a spoon.

Step 4: Add Ice

Put ice in a glass and pour the strawberry mixture into the glass. Add 2-3 fresh, sliced strawberries on top for decoration.

Is This a Strawberry Acai Refresher?

No, this is not the same as a Strawberry Acai Refresher. A strawberry acai refresher is made with a combination of acai, Strawberry, soy milk, and ice. The result is a sweet and fruity drink that is perfect for beating the heat. Although they are similar, they are not the same.

How Do I Order This at Starbucks?

Strawberry Refreshers are one of the most popular drinks at Starbucks. If you’re looking to order one, just ask for a “Pink Drink“. A Pink Drink is similar, but not totally the same. If you want to be more specific, you can ask for a “Very Berry Strawberry Refresher,” which is made with real strawberry juice. No matter how you order it, a Strawberry Refresher is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy summertime. Cheers!

Other Starbucks Copycat Drinks to Try

Can I Double The Recipe?

Absolutely! If you want to make more than one drink, or if you have guests, you can totally double the recipe. Double all of the ingredients and follow the steps above.

Can I Use Different Fruit?

You can, but it won’t be a strawberry refresher anymore. While the traditional recipe calls for using only strawberries, there’s no reason why you can’t mix things up and use different fruit.

For a tropical twist, try adding pineapple or mango. Or, for a sour kick, add some raspberries or blackberries. The possibilities are endless! So next time you’re in the mood for a Strawberry Refresher, don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruits. Who knows? You might just come up with the perfect combination.

Strawberry Refresher

Yield: 1 drink

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

A deliciously refreshing summer drink that is easy to make and perfect for cooling down.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cup of frozen strawberries;
2 1/4 cups coconut milk;
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cup of ice

Instructions

Blend together the frozen strawberries, sugar and vanilla extract.
Pour in the coconut milk and stir together.
Add ice and sliced strawberries.
Enjoy!

Other summer time drinks to try

Looking for more refreshing summer drinks? How about you try:

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below. Want to try it later? Pin it to your favorite drink board!

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Passion Tea Lemonade

Kelley — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Nothing says summertime like a cold glass of lemonade! Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade is a refreshing twist on the classic summer drink. The good news is you don’t have to stop at the coffee shop every time you get a craving! Let me show you how to make this copycat Starbucks passion tea lemonade today.

Being able to enjoy a cold drink in the summer is one of my favorite things. Actually, I’ll take a cold drink any time, even in the winter. Honestly, most days you can find an iced vanilla latte in my hand, even if there is snow on the ground.

Iced passion tea lemonade is a light and refreshing drink that is great year round but is definitely a summer favorite. My kids love it, I love it and it’s super easy to make at home.

What is passion tea lemonade?

Passion tea lemonade is a tea based drink from Starbucks on their every day menu. It became popular a few years back and is still one of their more popular summer drinks. It combines passion fruit tea with lemonade for a refreshing iced drink. The best part is that it’s easy to make at home with a few simple ingredients.

Starbucks passion tea lemonade ingredients

When I said simple ingredients, I meant it. You only need 3 ingredients to make a copycat passion tea lemonade. You will need:

Passion fruit tea – I love using the Tazo brand passion fruit tea.
Water
Lemonade – Any type of lemonade that you like will work here. I suggest getting one without pulp for a smoother drink.

I don’t need any sugar? The lemonade is sweetened and ends up making the whole drink sweet as well. If you’d like to add some sugar, I suggest doing it when you brew the tea and allow it to dissolve in the hot water.

How to make Starbucks passion tea lemonade

Once you have gathered your 3 ingredients, you will also need to grab a large pot, a pitcher and a spatula.

Step 1 Brew the tea Place the water in a pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Once it starts to boil place the tea bags in the pot and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Optional step: Stir in the sugar if you want this drink to be sweeter.

Step 2 Allow to cool Let the tea cool before pouring it into a pitcher.

Step 3 Assemble the drink Pour the lemonade on top of the tea in the pitcher and stir to combine. Place ice in a glass and pour the drink over ice.

What type of tea do I need for this passion tea?

Tazo brand tea has a passion tea that is perfect for this drink. It tastes just like the version that you can get at Starbucks. It’s a fraction of the cost of the ‘bucks version and you can use it to make a couple pitchers full of this passion tea lemonade.

Is there caffeine in Starbucks passion tea?

I don’t believe there is caffeine in the Starbucks version. If you use the iced passion tea, there is no caffeine either. You can use a tea that has caffeine, if you’d like.

Is Starbucks passion tea lemonade healthy?

It’s not an un-healthy drink choice if you are looking to keep your calories low. You can request to have it without the classic syrup or with less pumps to make it even healthier.

How to order a passion tea lemonade from Starbucks

Want to order an iced passion tea lemonade from Starbucks? All you have to do is ask the barista for an iced passion fruit lemonade. It is a main stay on their iced tea menu so they will know exactly what you are asking for.

If you’d like a few less calories, ask for less pumps of the classic syrup in the drink.

Starbucks copycat treats to pair with your drink

Not only do I love copycat Starbucks drinks, I also love to make their baked goodies too! Some treats that would pair will with this iced passion tango tea lemonade are:

How to store leftovers

Since you make this drink in a pitcher, simply place the pitcher in the fridge to enjoy later. This drink will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Passionfruit Lemonade

Ingredients

2 Tazo Passionfruit iced tea bags - http://amzn.to/1PxfPKF
4 cups of water
4 cups of lemonade, homemade or store bought

Instructions

Brew the tea bags according to the package.

Allow to cool and pour into a pitcher.

Add the lemonade.

Add ice before you drink.

Enjoy!

Other copycat Starbucks

Like this drink recipe? Be sure to check out:

Did you try this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below. Want to try it later? Pin the image below to your favorite drink board!

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Peppermint hot chocolate

Kelley — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 02:26:48 +0000

When the weather starts to cool down, the best way to warm up is a warm up of hot chocolate when you get inside. We love all kinds of hot chocolate, but this Starbucks peppermint hot chocolate copycat recipe has to be one of our favorites. It’s sweet, creamy, delicious and has just the right amount of peppermint. Let me show you how to make this easy hot chocolate today!

Hot chocolate is an essential winter time drink that everyone loves! It’s creamy and decadent, plus full of chocolate flavor! The great thing about hot chocolate is that it’s also a versatile drink. You can easily add your favorite extract, flavoring or even alcohol to it. No need to run to the ‘bucks to make this peppermint hot chocolate. It’s super easy to make right at home!

Starbucks peppermint hot chocolate

This peppermint hot chocolate is a classic Starbucks menu item that makes an appearance with the winter line-up. It is a creamy hot chocolate made with Starbucks oven peppermint mocha sauce. Hot milk is then added to the cup and it is topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies. The best part is that you can easily make this Starbucks hot chocolate at home with a few common ingredients.

Peppermint hot chocolate ingredients

This peppermint hot chocolate is simple to make at home. First you create a simple peppermint mocha syrup and then you add in your hot milk. To do this you will need:

whole milk
heavy cream
granulated sugar
salt
semisweet chocolate chips – can substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips as well
peppermint extract – can be found in the baking aisle with the other extracts such as almond or vanilla

Optional toppings: marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes

How to make a copycat Starbucks peppermint hot chocolate

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you will also need to grab:

measuring cups and spoons
saucepan
spatula

Step 1 Heat the milk In your saucepan add your milk, heavy cream, sugar and salt. Stir to combine. Allow the milk mixture to begin to steam and heat through. There will be bubbles on the sides when it’s hot enough.

Step 2 Add in the chocolate and peppermint Stir in your chocolate chips and peppermint extract. Reduce the heat and allow the chocolate chips to melt. You will need to stir constantly so that none of it burns.

Step 3 Pour and enjoy Once your chocolate chips have melted, pour your peppermint hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes or even a drizzle of more chocolate. Enjoy your homemade copycat Starbucks peppermint hot chocolate!

How to make in the slow cooker

This peppermint hot chocolate would be perfect in the slow cooker! You can follow my recipe for slow cooker hot chocolate, but add in the peppermint extract with the rest of the ingredients. Easy peasy!

How to make hot chocolate in the Instant Pot

Yup, this hot chocolate can even be made in the Instant Pot! My Starbucks zebra hot chocolate is made in the Instant Pot. You can follow the directions from the zebra hot chocolate, but add in the peppermint extract as well. Zebra hot chocolate is a combo of white and regular chocolate. Feel free to use whatever chocolate combination you’d like.

How much peppermint extract to add to hot chocolate?

Let me tell you – a little goes a long way. This recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon and makes 2 cups of hot chocolate. If you were to make a larger batch you could use a full teaspoon. Start small and add more as needed.

When does Starbucks start selling peppermint hot chocolate?

Starbucks releases their peppermint hot chocolate the same time they drop their winter menu – around the end of October. It comes out when they release their caramel brulee latte, chestnut praline latte and the new sugar cookie latte.

How much caffeine is in Starbucks peppermint hot chocolate?

There is some caffeine in a hot chocolate due to the chocolate, but far less than any other coffee drink. The amount of caffeine will depend on the type of chocolate used.

How do I order a peppermint hot chocolate at Starbucks?

To the best of my knowledge, Starbucks keeps the peppermint mocha syrup all year long. So you can ask your barista for a peppermint hot chocolate any time you’d like! Just say “can I have a grande peppermint hot chocolate?” Or whatever size you’d like. Tip – you can also order the salted caramel mocha all year too!

Tips and tricks

This recipe is pretty easy and you can have a copycat Starbucks peppermint mocha in no time. Some tips and tricks to make your drink are:

You can use any type of chocolate chips that you’d like. Dark chocolate make a great substitute.
Want a peppermint white hot chocolate? I got a recipe for that! Check out my peppermint white hot chocolate recipe here.
Don’t have peppermint extract? You can use peppermint syrup, like Torani, instead. I would add 2 tablespoons in place of the extract.
Be sure to stir the milk and the chocolate chips often. This will help keep it from burning and make it nice and smooth.
This recipe makes 2 drinks – feel free to double or triple the recipe as needed.

Optional toppings

This hot chocolate is great on it’s own, but the toppings make it over the top delicious. You can add:

whipped cream, homemade or store bought
crushed candy canes
marshmallows
chocolate curls
sprinkles
chocolate sauce

FAQs

How do I make sure my hot chocolate is smooth and silky? Using chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder gives a really rich and smooth hot chocolate. Make sure to only cook the cream mixture until it is just simmering and reduce the heat to low before adding the chocolate. Adding chocolate to cream that is too hot can cause the mixture to separate, which will make it grainy.

Can I make this hot chocolate without the peppermint extract? Definitely! You can make it plain hot chocolate by just leaving out the extract. You can also use it as a base for other flavors. Try out different extracts in place of the peppermint. Start small because you don’t want to add too much. Taste as you go and add more to your preference.

Can I substitute chocolate bars for chocolate chips? Yes, you can. Semisweet chocolate has around 60% cocoa content, so choose a chocolate bar around that level for a similar taste. You can also use other percentages to make the hot chocolate a little more bitter or slightly sweeter.

Is peppermint oil the same thing as peppermint extract? No, they’re not the same. Peppermint oil is much stronger, so do not add 1/8 tsp of it to this recipe. It would likely only need a couple of drops of peppermint oil, but I have not tested it with the oil.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can. It thickens as it cools, but it will return to the same texture after being heated up. I have heated it up in the microwave or back over the stove.

Peppermint hot chocolate

Yield: 2 hot chocolates

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Make a copycat Starbucks peppermint hot chocolate at home!

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp granulated sugar
pinch kosher salt
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/8 tsp peppermint extract
Optional toppings: marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes

Instructions

Combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally until the mixture begins to steam and there are small bubbles around the sides of the pan.
Reduce the heat to low and add the chocolate chips and peppermint extract, stirring until they are melted.
Divide the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or marshmallows.

Other Starbucks copycat recipes to try

This peppermint hot chocolate releases with other Starbucks winter drinks like the:

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below.

Want to make it later? Pin the image below to your favorite drink board! THANK YOU for the support!

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Boozy white hot chocolate

Kelley — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 04:28:17 +0000

Boozy white hot chocolate is the ultimate winter drink for adults. It’s warm, it’s sweet and it’s spiked with your favorite booze. This spiked hot chocolate is always a hit at holiday parties and family get togethers. Let me show you how to make this super easy spiked hot chocolate recipe today.

White hot chocolate is my jam. It’s been my go to drink for years now. I love white chocolate in general, so being able to drink a big mug of creamy white chocolate is a no-brainer. My classic white hot chocolate recipe is amazing, but this spiked version is even better!

Spiked white hot chocolate

Spiked white hot chocolate is an adults only winter drink that consists of white chocolate, milk and your favorite liqueur. You can make it on the stove top or in your crock pot. It’s creamy, warm and the perfect way to warm up with friends and family.

Boozy hot chocolate ingredients

This hot chocolate recipe is super easy to make and only requires 5 ingredients! To make boozy white hot chocolate you will need:

white chocolate chips
milk
heavy cream
vanilla extract
white chocolate liqueur

White chocolate chips – You will want to use a good quality white chocolate chip for this recipe. The better your white chocolate, the better your hot chocolate will taste. I love using Ghiradelli white chocolate chips.

Milk – Use your favorite milk for this recipe. I love using whole milk as it makes for a creamier hot chocolate.

Heavy cream – Heavy cream also helps make this hot chocolate creamy and delicious.

Vanilla extract – Use homemade vanilla extract (this makes a great gift too!) or store bought extract.

White chocolate liqueur – Godiva has a yummy white chocolate liqueur that works great in this recipe. Feel free to use your favorite alcohol here. You can sub it out for marshmallow vodka or even an Irish whiskey. The possibilities are endless!

How to make boozy white hot chocolate

This white hot chocolate is super simple to make in the crock pot! I love using my crock pot for hot chocolate because you can make a lot of hot cocoa and it frees up your oven for other holiday goodies.

Step 1 Add the white chocolate chips and the milk Turn your slow cooker onto LOW. Put the chips and all of the milk in the bottom of your crock pot. Stir to combine. Allow the white chocolate to start melting before adding the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Stir and place the lid on.

Step 2 Cook Allow the white hot chocolate mixture to cook for 2 and 1/2 hour. Make sure to stir every 15-30 minutes to ensure that the chocolate won’t stick to the bottom. Once everything is combined and heated through, turn off your slow cooker.

Step 3 Add the booze Pour in your white chocolate liqueur and stir to combine. You can then use a ladle to place your boozy white chocolate drink into individual mugs.

Add some marshmallows, whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon.

How to make on the stove top

Want to make this boozy drink on the stove top? Follow my classic white hot chocolate recipe and add your liqueur at the end. It’s a great way to enjoy this drink even faster!

Instant Pot instructions

You can also make this white hot chocolate in your pressure cooker! Check out my Instant Pot hot chocolate recipe for pressure cooking instructions. (This recipe uses white and milk chocolate, but you can use all white chocolate if you’d like.)

Do I have to add booze?

Nope! You don’t have to add any type of alcohol if you don’t like. You can easily make this a family friendly recipe by omitting the booze altogether. I do suggest adding sugar, like my classic white hot chocolate recipe, to account for the lose of the flavored liqueur.

You can also leave the alcohol out and add it to individual glasses. After the hot chocolate has been poured into individual mugs, add one shot to each cup.

Can I use different liquor?

Yes! You sure can! You can add any of your favorite hard liquors to this hot chocolate. Some great substitutions would be:

Smiranoff marshmallow vodka
Rum Chata peppermint bark liqueur
Bailey’s Irish cream
Amaretto
Kahlua
rum
whiskey

If you add a liquor that isn’t sweetened, I suggest adding 1 cup of sugar to the crock pot. This will ensure that your white hot chocolate is still sweet enough.

Boozy white hot chocolate FAQs

Is this hot chocolate creamy?

You better believe it is! The whole milk, heavy cream and the cream liquor make this a super creamy white hot chocolate recipe. Want to make it even creamier? Add in about 1/4 cup sweetened condensed with the white chocolate chips.

What size cup do I need?

I like to use an 8 or 12 ounce coffee mug for my hot chocolate. Feel free to use whatever size you’d like! Just note, that when you add the 1.5 oz, it’s to a 12 ounce cup.

How to store leftovers

Pour any leftover hot chocolate into a pitcher with a lid or a large Tupperware. Place it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour into a saucepan and heat until warmed through.

Other hot chocolate recipes to try

Hot chocolate is one of the best cold weather drinks. Some other variations to this boozy white hot chocolate are:

I even have a hot chocolate cheesecake and a hot chocolate bundt cake too!

Boozy white hot chocolate

Yield: 6 cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Make a boozy white hot chocolate in your slow cooker!

Ingredients

12oz. White Chocolate chips (1½ cups)
4 cups Milk
1½ cups Heavy cream
1tsp Vanilla extract
9oz. White chocolate liqueur

Instructions

In a crockpot, add in white chocolate chips and milk.
Set crockpot to low and stir until white chocolate starts to melt.
Once melting, add in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
Stir and place on lid.
Allow to cook for 2 hours 30 minutes.
Stir every 15-30 minutes so chocolate wont stick to the bottom and burn.
Once cook time is over, turn off crockpot.
For the white chocolate liqueur, you can add all 9oz. into the crockpot or add 1.5oz. to each individual serving.
Pour into a mug and top with some whipped cream or ground cinnamon.

Other white chocolate recipes to try

Looking for more great white chocolate recipes? You may like:

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or in the comments below.

Want to make it later? Pin the image below to your favorite drink board. Either way THANK YOU for the support!

The post Boozy white hot chocolate appeared first on mom makes dinner.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Kelley — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 04:56:35 +0000

Eggnog is a classic Christmas-time drink that is creamy and full of flavor. This easy homemade eggnog recipe uses real ingredients and is simple to make. If you are looking for the perfect Christmas drink, try my homemade eggnog today!

Eggnog is one of those recipes that people either really love or they don’t care about it at all. I feel like there is no in between when it comes to eggnog. No one kinda likes eggnog. They either live for it during the holiday season or wish it didn’t exist. If you live for homemade eggnog, you are my people. Team eggnog all the Christmas day!

What is eggnog?

Eggnog is a seasonal drink that consists of eggs, milk, sugar and spices. It originated in Britain and has become the drink to share during the Christmas holiday. You can purchase eggnog at most grocery stores during the winter months, but homemade eggnog is by far the better tasting option. Plus, it’s easy to make at home! This is a non-alcohol version but you can easily add alcohol to your entire batch or in your glass. You can serve eggnog warmed or chilled.

Homemade eggnog ingredients

The wonderful thing about this homemade eggnog recipe is that you only need a handful of common ingredients. No preservatives in this easy eggnog! Just fresh ingredients that you can find at most grocery stores. To make eggnog at home you will need:

eggs
sugar
whole milk
ground nutmeg
ground cinnamon
vanilla extract
heavy cream
salt

Eggs – You will need a solid dozen eggs for this eggnog recipe. Yup. 1 dozen eggs. It wouldn’t be eggnog without the eggs, right? Grab a dozen the next time you are at the grocery store.

Sugar – White granulated sugar works best for this recipe. You can use a sugar substitute such as stevia or monk fruit to keep it low carb.

Whole milk – Four cups of whole milk are needed for this recipe. I don’t suggest using low-fat, skim or 2% for this recipe. You want full fat whole milk.

Spices – Ground nutmeg and cinnamon are needed for this homemade eggnog recipe.

Heavy cream – This helps give the eggnog the creamiest texture. I would not suggest substituting half and half for the heavy cream. Trust me, you want the heavy cream.

Scroll down to see a full list of ingredients needed.

How to make homemade eggnog

Once you have grabbed all of your ingredients, you will also need to grab:

measuring cups and spoons
mixing bowl
whisk
saucepan
candy thermometer
airtight container such as a large Tupperware

Step 1 Combine eggs and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and the sugar until fully combined. You want to make sure that the sugar starts to dissolve into the eggs. The mixture will be gritty.

Step 2 Add to saucepan

Place the egg mixture along with the milk, cinnamon and nutmeg in a saucepan over medium low heat.

Step 3 Heat the egg mixture

Heat the egg, sugar and milk mixture over medium low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk. You do not want the milk to scorch or the eggs to scramble in the saucepan. A whisk or a fork will work for stirring the mixture to prevent this from happening.

Step 4 Stir in heavy cream and vanilla

Remove the eggnog mixture from the heat once it reaches 160 degrees. You can use a candy thermometer to read the temperature. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and the vanilla extract. Stir to combine and allow to cool before testing. Feel free to add more spice to your homemade eggnog, if needed.

Step 5 Store and cool

You can serve the eggnog warm, if desired. If you want to serve chilled eggnog, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for at least 6 hours. The eggnog will thicken as it cools.

Step 6 Serve

Ladle your chilled eggnog into glasses and top with whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg. Pour in a shot of your favorite rum to enjoy a spiked glass of nog.

Is homemade eggnog safe to drink?

Yes! Homemade and store bought eggnog is safe to drink. You heat the eggs to 160 degrees before removing it from the heat. Eggs are safe to consume once they reach 145 degrees, so yes, homemade eggnog is safe to drink.

Why don’t they sell eggnog year round?

Because consumers tend not to buy it after the holidays. It has solidified its status as a winter or Christmas drink. But don’t worry! Now that you have this easy homemade eggnog recipe, you can make it year round!

What alcohol goes best with eggnog?

My recipe is alcohol free, but you can always add alcohol to the entire bowl for an adults only treat or add a shot to your glass. The best alcohol to add in with your eggnog is bourbon, rum or whiskey. Feel free to use your favorite brand, responsibly.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot or Slow Cooker?

You can make it in both, but when you use the Instant Pot, you aren’t using it like a pressure cooker. You use the Instant Pot on the saute function and not the pressure cook function. So yes, you can use it but it’s almost the same as using your stove top. You can use your Crock Pot or slow cooker though! Follow this easy crock pot eggnog recipe for more details.

Tips and tricks

This homemade eggnog recipe is pretty easy and I’m confident that even beginner cooks will be able to master it. Some of my tips to make it even easier are:

Make sure to completely combine the eggs and the sugar. This will help it cook evenly.
Use a large enough saucepan to combine all of your ingredients. I suggest a 6 or 8 quart saucepan.
Once you start to warm up the egg mixture, you will want to whisk constantly to ensure your milk and eggs don’t burn or scramble.
Feel free to adjust the spices and sugar to liking.
Use a large Tupperware or add cling wrap to the saucepan before adding the cooled eggnog mixture to the fridge.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Yield: 10-12 cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Additional Time: 6 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes

Make an incredibly creamy homemade eggong for the holidays!

Ingredients

12 eggs
1 1/4 cup sugar
4 cups whole milk
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
pinch of salt
dash of cinnamon for topping

Instructions

1. Combine eggs and sugar in a medium glass bowl and whisk until thoroughly combined.

2. Transfer to a saucepan and stir in whole milk, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.

3. Heat egg mixture over medium-low heat while stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent the milk from scorching or the eggs from scrambling. As the mixture heats up, it will thicken slightly.

4. When mixture reaches 160 degrees on a candy thermometer, remove from heat and slowly whisk in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract.

5. Cool slightly before tasting. Add more sugar or spices, if desired, before ransferring to an airtight container.

6. Mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.

7. Refrigerate overnight or until thoroughly chilled.

8. Serve in mugs and garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, or a dash of nutmeg.

Other Christmas themed drinks to try

Looking for other winter holiday drinks to try? Some of my favorites are:

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or in the comments.

Want to try it later? Pin the image below to your favorite holiday board! THANK YOU for the support!

The post Homemade Eggnog Recipe appeared first on mom makes dinner.

Iced Gingerbread Latte

Kelley — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:15:10 +0000

An iced gingerbread latte is what you need during the holiday season. It’s a light coffee drink that is full of gingerbread flavors. No need to run to the coffee shop when you can easily make this copycat Starbucks iced gingerbread latte at home!

I love when Starbucks releasing their holiday menus. The fall menu is the perfect time to grab a pumpkin spice latte or apple crisp macchiato. The winter menu is when they release the caramel brulee and chestnut praline latte. They also have the gingerbread latte, which may just be my favorite winter drink they offer!

While the hot gingerbread latte is great, there is no denying that ice coffee is great year round. It doesn’t matter if it’s snowing outside, it’s still a good time for iced coffee.

Starbucks copycat iced gingerbread latte

A gingerbread latte is an espresso based drink that has a gingerbread flavored syrup added to it and is topped with whipped cream. The syrup is what gives this latte it’s festive flavors.

Recently it was announced that Starbucks would no longer carry the gingerbread syrup needed to make a gingerbread latte. Sad face. The good news is that it’s super easy to make your own with homemade or store-bought syrup.

What is in the gingerbread latte from Starbucks?

When you order an iced gingerbread latte from Starbucks the ingredients are: espresso, gingerbread syrup, steamed milk and whipped cream. They also would add a gingerbread crumble on top. To make a homemade gingerbread latte you will need:

sugar
water
ground ginger
ground cinnamon
ground cloves
ground nutmeg
vanilla
salt
espresso
ice
milk
whipped cream

Sugar – White granulated sugar is what you will need for this recipe. You can use brown sugar as well to give the syrup a great depth of flavor.

Spices – These are the spices needed that give this latte it’s gingerbread taste. You can either use a pre-made gingerbread spice mix or you can create your own with the spices listed below.

Vanilla extract – Brings out the flavor the gingerbread spices. You can use homemade or store bought vanilla.

Espresso – You can use fresh brewed espresso, instant espresso, hot coffee or even cold brew coffee.

Milk – Any milk will work in this recipe. You can make it dairy-free by using a milk alternative such as almond, coconut or oat milk.

How to make an iced gingerbread latte

This DIY coffee recipe is really easy to make. If you want to make it even easier, grab some pre-made gingerbread syrup and skip a few steps. Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you will also need to grab:

Measuring cups
Saucepan
Spatula
Mason jar
Coffee maker
Glass

Step 1 Make the syrup Combine your water, sugar, vanilla, salt and gingerbread spices together in a medium saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Continue to simmer until the syrup coats the back of a spoon. Remove and place in a mason jar to cool.

Step 2 Brew your espresso Brew your coffee or espresso and allow it cool to room temperature. You can also follow the steps for a shaken espresso to enjoy your iced gingerbread latte faster.

Step 3 Assemble your iced gingerbread latte Add your iced coffee to a glass along with your gingerbread syrup. Stir to combine. Add your milk to the sweetened coffee. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle of nutmeg.

What does the gingerbread latte taste like?

Gingerbread lattes taste like a gingerbread cookie in coffee form! The same spices used in gingerbread cookies are also used in this DIY coffee drink.

How to order an iced gingerbread latte at Starbucks

Although the gingerbread latte isn’t on the menu anymore, you can still order it at Starbucks! When you get a craving for one ask your barista for:

a grande iced cinnamon dolce latte
ask for 2 pumps of white chocolate mocha
ask for 1 pump chai latte concentrate
ask for a shake of nutmeg
ask for whipped cream with nutmeg on top

It won’t totally be the same as the original, but it will be festive and delicious.

Other holidays drinks to try

What are Starbucks Christmas drinks this year? I’m so glad you asked! I actually have a copycat recipe for almost all of Starbucks Christmas line. Crazy, huh? Starbucks is currently carrying the:

You can also grab a cranberry bliss bar or a chocolate croissant.

How to store gingerbread syrup

If you make the gingerbread syrup for this recipe, you can store it in the fridge or on the counter in a mason jar. A mason jar or a swing jar with an airtight lid are the best ways to store this homemade gingerbread syrup.

How to make a hot gingerbread latte

The iced and hot version of this drink are almost identical. You can follow the directions for a hot gingerbread latte here. This recipe also includes the homemade gingerbread syrup so if you make it you can use it for either latte.

Iced gingerbread latte recipe

Iced gingerbread latte

Yield: 1 drink

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Additional Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Make a winter favorite with this iced gingerbread latte recipe.

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla
pinch salt
1/2 cup fresh espresso (freshly brewed for hot latte)
8 ounces of milk (steamed for hot lattes)
whipped cream
ground nutmeg

Instructions

Add the spices, sugar, water, salt and vanilla to a medium saucepan and heat over medium high. Stir until mixture comes to a boil.
Turn down heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. Pour into mason jar and let cool.
Pour chilled espresso and milk over ice and add gingerbread syrup to latte to taste.
Pour in milk
Top with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg.

Notes

Can use a pre-made gingerbread syrup as well.

Other Starbucks iced drinks to try

I do love a good iced coffee. Some of my other favorite iced copycat coffees are:

Like it? Pin it!

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below.

Want to make it later? Save the image below to your favorite coffee board!

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Apple Crisp Macchiato

Kelley — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 03:19:40 +0000

Hold onto your pumpkins, this Starbucks Apple Crisp Macchiato will become your new fall favorite drink. The flavors of this hot coffee are perfect for browsing the pumpkin patch or snuggling under a blanket. Grab your favorite pair of Ugg boots and let’s make this easy copycat apple crisp macchiato at home!

Starbucks released their fall menu and it had a few new drinks on it! Of course this makes me squeal because I love trying their new releases. The new drink that may be a regular on the fall menu is the Apple Crisp Macchiato! I tried it out and it’s so good! You know I had to recreate this easy copycat drink at home though. Let me introduce you to your new favorite fall coffee!

What is an apple crisp macchiato?

This drink combines a shot of espresso with an amazing apple brown sugar syrup. It’s similar to a caramel macchiato, but without the caramel. “Macchiato” means stained as the espresso “stains” the milk to make it look marked. My homemade apple crisp macchiato is made with real ingredients like apple cider and brown sugar!

Apple crisp macchiato ingredients

I love this drink because once you make the apple brown sugar syrup, you can have this drink whenever you want! To make your own macchiato you will need:

Apple cider
Brown sugar
White sugar
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon
Cloves
Espresso
Milk

Apple cider – This is what gives the macchiato it’s apple flavor! I do suggest getting apple cider over apple juice as it’s a richer flavor.

Brown sugar – Gives this drink a great depth of flavor and kind of caramelizes when making the syrup.

Cinnamon – You will need cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon. The cinnamon sticks go in the syrup the drink is topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also use apple pie spice!

Cloves – Whole cloves are used when making the syrup.

Espresso – You will need fresh espresso or strong coffee. Use whichever you prefer but a better quality coffee or espresso will make this drink taste more like Starbucks!

Milk – Any milk you like will work here. I love using heavy cream as it gives the drink a thicker consistency.

How to make an apple macchiato

This recipe can be broken into two steps – making the syrup and then assembling the macchiato. Let’s start with making the apple crisp syrup.

How to make apple syrup

Place all of your ingredients in a middle pot on medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a soft boil, stirring often.
Allow the sugars to dissolve and then bring to a simmer.
Simmer for 10 minutes or until the syrup has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Pour the syrup into a mason jar and seal with a lid.
Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. (Crystallization is normal.)

Assemble the apple crisp macchiato

Once you’ve made your syrup, you can make your macchiato! I love making the syrup and having it on hand because then I can make this drink whenever I want!

Add your syrup to the bottom of a glass.
Brew your espresso or coffee and pour it over the syrup. Stir to combine.
Steam your milk and pour it over the coffee mixture. Take a second to enjoy the coffee swirl action.
Top with frothed milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Sip and enjoy!

How many drinks does this make?

The recipe below makes one apple crisp macchiato but makes a 1/2 pint of the syrup. You can easily follow the steps below to make the drink over and over again once you’ve made the apple syrup.

How do I steam my milk?

You can easily steam you milk on the stove over medium heat. Stir the milk while it heats up until it’s frothy and warm. Add that to your drink. You can also use a coffee steamer attachment if you have an espresso or coffee maker that has one.

How can I froth my milk?

I use a milk frother to easily froth my milk for my DIY coffee drinks. You can use a milk frother or you can steam it and then whip it with an electric mixer. It’s an extra step and I suggest investing in a milk frother if you like making copycat coffee drinks at home. This Instant Pot milk frother is my favorite one!

How do I order an apple crisp macchiato at Starbucks?

The great thing is that during the fall and winter months you can simply ask for an apple crisp macchiato. You can do hot, iced or as a frapuccino. It gets a little tricky to order after it’s removed from the seasonal menu. I would ask your barista if they can still make it and if not, ask for something similar. My guess is they will give you a combination of a brown sugar oatmilk latte and a caramel macchiato.

How to store leftover apple syrup

Since this recipe only makes one macchiato, you only need to store the apple syrup for later. Place your apple syrup in a mason jar and screw the lid tightly. Keep it in the pantry where it is cool and dry. Some crystallization is normal when this syrup sits for a bit. It’s still good to use!

Fall treats to pair with your macchiato

When you have such a delicious drink, you are going to want to pair it with a delicious treat! Some of my favorite fall treats that go well with this macchiato are:

Helpful tips and tricks

This recipe is pretty easy but follow my tips below to make it as simple as possible.

Don’t walk away from the syrup. Stay close to your stove when you are making the syrup so that it doesn’t burn. You need to stir it often too.
Use freshly brewed espresso. You will want to use fresh brewed coffee or espresso for this drink. It will give this macchiato the best flavor.
Get a milk frother. I love the Instant Pot milk frother and use it daily! If you like to make fancy coffee drinks at home, this milk frother is a MUST!
Make it iced. Use cold brew coffee to easily make an iced version of this macchiato.

Starbucks copycat Apple Crisp Macchiato

Yield: 1 drink plus syrup

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Make an amazing copycat apple crisp macchiato at home for a fraction of the cost!

Ingredients

For the apple crisp syrup:
1 cup Apple cider
1/2 cup Brown sugar
1/2 cup White sugar
1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
2-3 Cinnamon sticks
2-3 Cloves, whole
For the macchiato
1 shot of Espresso or 1 cup of hot coffee
1 cup of Milk, divided
sprinkle of ground cinnamon

Instructions

Place the apple cider, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla, cinnamon sticks and cloves in a medium sauce pan. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and allow to simmer for about 10 minutes or until the syrup has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Brew your espresso or coffee.
Add a tablespoon or two of the apple syrup to a glass.
Pour in the coffee and stir to combine.
Steam 1/2 of your milk on the stove top and add it to your coffee.
Froth the other half of the milk and pour it on top.
Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Enjoy!

Other copycat Starbucks recipes to try:

You know I love a good copycat Starbucks drink. Here are some others to try out:

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below.

Want to make it later? Pin the image below to your favorite Pinterest board!

The post Apple Crisp Macchiato appeared first on mom makes dinner.

Easy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate

Kelley — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Grab your favorite slow cooker and let’s make a whole pot of hot chocolate! In fact, this Easy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate will not only be a huge kid for the kids, but the adults will love it too. It’s easy to make and will have your whole house smelling like the holidays. Let me show you how to make this crock pot hot chocolate today!

Hot chocolate has to be the best drink to have during the holiday season. It’s creamy, delicious, hot on cold days and can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike. In fact, it’s a drink that my kids look forward each holiday season. The best part of this drink? It’s super easy to make in the crock pot!

If you love white chocolate, be sure to check out my white hot chocolate recipe! It’s decadent, creamy and perfect for white chocolate fans!

What is crock pot hot chocolate?

Hot chocolate is a combination of chocolate and milk mixed together. It creates a creamy and delicious drink that is perfect for the cooler months. This recipe takes traditional hot chocolate and makes it even simpler by using your slow cooker. My kids love hot chocolate in any form, but they get super excited when we make it in the crock pot!

Easy crock pot hot chocolate ingredients

Like most hot chocolate recipes, you only need a few common ingredients to make it. This crock pot version is no different! To make this creamy slow cooker hot chocolate you will need:

semi-sweet chocolate chips
cocoa powder
sugar
heavy cream
milk
vanilla extract

Chocolate chips – You can use any kind of chocolate chip that you prefer in this recipe. We enjoy semi-sweet chips, but dark chocolate and even milk chocolate are great options.

Cocoa powder – Use a high quality cocoa powder. The better the quality the cocoa powder, the better tasting your hot chocolate will be. I suggest a Dutch process cocoa, but any cocoa powder will work.

Sugar – Plain, white sugar is what you will need for this hot chocolate recipe.

Heavy cream – Don’t skip the heavy cream in this recipe! It is what makes the hot chocolate creamy and extra delicious!

Milk – Use whatever milk you prefer, but I have found that whole milks makes this hot chocolate creamier than 2% or skim.

Vanilla extract – I love making and using homemade vanilla extract since it’s so much cheaper. (It also makes a great gift!) Feel free to use whatever extract you have on hand.

How to make hot chocolate in the crock pot

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you will also need to grab your slow cooker, measuring cups and spoons, a large spoon and a ladle. This recipe really couldn’t be any easier.

Step 1 Add ingredients to crock pot Place all of your ingredients in the slow cooker and give it a stir to combine. Put the lid on.

Step 2 Melt the chocolate Cook the hot chocolate on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until the chocolate chips are melted and everything is heated through. Stir to combine the melted chocolate chips well.

Step 3 Serve Pour your easy crock pot hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows.

How to make hot chocolate in the Instant Pot

You can easily make this hot chocolate in your Instant Pot! It’s a great way to be able to enjoy this sweet drink even faster. Follow these simple directions on how to make hot chocolate in the Instant Pot. (This recipe uses white chocolate to make it a “zebra” version, but you can use all milk chocolate chips instead.)

How to make hot chocolate on the stove top

Don’t want to use your Crock Pot or your Instant Pot? No problem! You can make this easy hot chocolate recipe on your stove top! Follow my recipe for white hot chocolate but replace the white chocolate chips with milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips.

We love this hot chocolate on a cold day. We set it to cook and can smell it throughout the house. It also makes a great addition to any holiday party or event. This hot chocolate is great plain, but we love to add toppings to it. Some of our favorite toppings are:

mini marshmallows
chocolate sauce
sprinkles
cookie crumbles
ice cream – A scoop of ice cream in this hot chocolate is amazing!
peppermint sticks

How do you melt chocolate in a Crock Pot?

You can easily melt chocolate in your crock pot! For this crock pot hot chocolate, add all of your ingredients, including your chocolate, to your slow cooker. Set your slow cooker to cook on LOW for 2 hours. The heat from the slow cooker and the liquid will melt the chocolate. All you need to do is stir it together to combine.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you absolutely can! I would swap the milk for your favorite dairy-free alternative and use full fat coconut cream for the heavy cream.

Hot chocolate variations

This hot chocolate is delicious just the way it is, but you can always jazz it up a bit by trying some of the variations below.

Add peppermint syrup to make a peppermint hot chocolate
Add pumpkin to make a pumpkin hot chocolate
You can add caramel sauce and a pinch of salt to make it a salted caramel hot chocolate
Use a combination and white and regular chocolate to make a zebra hot chocolate
Add instant coffee to make a caffeinated version
You can also make it adults only by adding marshmallow vodka

How to store leftovers

Place any leftover hot chocolate in a Tupperware with a secure lid and set it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or if you have time, add it back to your Crock Pot to warm up again.

Other hot chocolate recipes to try

I’m not kidding when I say we love hot chocolate at our house! Some of our other favorite hot chocolate drinks are:

Smores hot chocolate
Peppermint white hot chocolate
Pumpkin hot chocolate
Hot chocolate cake (with marshmallow frosting!)
Zebra hot chocolate
Starbucks copycat white hot chocolate
Hot chocolate cheesecake

Easy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate

Yield: 8 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Make an easy Crock Pot hot chocolate that is super creamy and perfect for cold days!

Ingredients

1 ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels
¼ cup cocoa powder
½ cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream
6 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Place all of the ingredients in your Crock Pot and stir to combine.
Cook on LOW for 2 - 2 1/2 hours.
Stir to combine the melted chocolate.
Spoon into mugs and enjoy.

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or in the post below.

Want to make it later? Pin the image below to your favorite drink board! Either way, THANK YOU for the support!

The post Easy Crock Pot Hot Chocolate appeared first on mom makes dinner.