Name: Orange Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste); 4 oz dark chocolate (or milk chocolate, depending on preference), chopped; 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice; Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional); Orange slices for garnish (optional)

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I love making this Orange Hot Chocolate because it’s a delightful twist on the classic hot chocolate. The rich, creamy chocolate pairs perfectly with the bright, citrusy zing of orange, making it the ultimate winter comfort drink. Whether you’re curled up by the fire or looking for something special to serve during the holidays, this warm and flavorful drink will surely hit the spot!

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

What I enjoy most about this Orange Hot Chocolate is how the fresh orange zest and juice complement the rich chocolate. The subtle citrus notes enhance the creaminess of the cocoa, creating a sweet and tangy flavor combination that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s a fun, seasonal variation of the traditional hot chocolate that’s perfect for when you want something a little different!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
4 oz dark chocolate (or milk chocolate, depending on preference), chopped
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Orange slices for garnish (optional)

Directions

Heat the milk and cream:
- In a small saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it begins to steam but not boil.
Add the cocoa and sugar:
- Once the milk mixture is heated, whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until smooth. Continue stirring until fully combined and the mixture is warm.
Melt the chocolate:
- Add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan and stir until it melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Add the orange flavor:
- Stir in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Finish and serve:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a slice of orange for garnish.
Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, citrusy twist on traditional hot chocolate!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings. Prep time is about 5 minutes, and cook time is around 10 minutes.

Variations

I like to change it up by:

Adding a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger for extra warmth and spice.
Drizzling a little chocolate syrup on top of the whipped cream for an extra chocolatey finish.
Using orange liqueur like Grand Marnier for an adult version of this drink.
Using coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Storage / Reheating

If you have leftover hot chocolate, store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra milk or cream to get the desired consistency.

Orange Hot Chocolate

FAQs

Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes! You can use sweetened chocolate, but reduce the sugar in the recipe to taste, as sweetened chocolate will add extra sweetness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the hot chocolate ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and top with whipped cream when ready to serve.
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?
Yes, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract, but fresh orange juice and zest will give the drink a more vibrant, natural flavor.
Is this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or coconut milk), and choose dairy-free chocolate and whipped cream.

Conclusion

Orange Hot Chocolate is a festive and indulgent twist on the classic, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or impressing guests during the holidays. The combination of creamy chocolate and zesty orange creates a deliciously unique drink that feels like a treat every time you sip. It’s simple to make and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!