🎉 Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your hot cocoa game, this Chocolate Cherry Covered Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink. It combines rich, creamy hot chocolate with a hint of cherry syrup, then gets topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a cherry on top.
This drink is perfect for winter holidays, Valentine’s celebrations, or just curling up by the fire. It’s simple, decadent, and tastes like a chocolate-covered cherry in liquid form.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Heatproof mugs
- Small microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
🛒 Ingredients
For the hot chocolate:
- 3 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cherry syrup (or grenadine for non-alcoholic version)
For the topping:
- Whipped cream (dairy or coconut-based)
- Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate drizzle
- Maraschino or fresh cherries (for garnish)
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Heat the base
In a medium saucepan, warm milk and cream over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
Step 2: Add chocolate
Whisk in chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add flavor
Stir in vanilla extract and cherry syrup. Taste and adjust sweetness.
Step 4: Prepare mugs
Optional: Dip mug rims in melted chocolate and roll in crushed chocolate shavings for a fancy touch.
Step 5: Pour & top
Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and garnish with a cherry.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 3–4 mugs
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Store leftover hot chocolate (without toppings) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, whisking before serving.
- Do not freeze (texture changes).
🥄 Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk + coconut cream.
- Extra Rich: Add 2 tbsp Nutella to the mix.
- Frozen Version: Blend cooled hot chocolate with ice for a summer treat.
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for depth.
- Valentine’s Version: Serve in heart-shaped mugs with pink sprinkles.
❓ 10 FAQs
- Can I use cocoa powder only instead of chocolate chips? – Yes, but chocolate chips make it creamier.
- Is cherry syrup the same as grenadine? – Grenadine works, but cherry syrup has stronger cherry flavor.
- Can I make this sugar-free? – Yes, use unsweetened cocoa and a sugar substitute.
- Can I use dark chocolate? – Absolutely, it makes the drink richer.
- Can I double the recipe? – Yes, just use a larger pot.
- Can kids drink this? – Yes, it’s non-alcoholic and family-friendly.
- How do I keep whipped cream from melting? – Let hot chocolate cool slightly before topping.
- Can I add coffee for a mocha twist? – Yes, replace some milk with brewed coffee.
- Do I have to garnish with cherries? – No, but it adds the signature “chocolate-covered cherry” vibe.
- Can I make it in a slow cooker? – Yes, cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
🏁 Conclusion
This Chocolate Cherry Covered Hot Chocolate is a dreamy, decadent twist on classic cocoa. With its rich chocolate base, sweet cherry flavor, and indulgent toppings, it’s a drink that feels like a dessert in a mug.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party, making it for Valentine’s Day, or enjoying it on a quiet winter night, this cozy drink will warm your heart as much as your hands.
Chocolate Cherry Covered Hot Chocolate | Cozy Indulgent Drink
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, warm milk and cream over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
- Whisk in chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar until melted and smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cherry syrup. Taste and adjust sweetness.
- Optional: Dip mug rims in melted chocolate and roll in crushed chocolate shavings for a fancy touch.
- Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and garnish with a cherry.
Notes
This Chocolate Cherry Covered Hot Chocolate is a dreamy, decadent twist on classic cocoa. With its rich chocolate base, sweet cherry flavor, and indulgent toppings, it’s a drink that feels like a dessert in a mug. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party, making it for Valentine’s Day, or enjoying it on a quiet winter night, this cozy drink will warm your heart as much as your hands.
