Disneyland’s Rich and Creamy Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
Warm up with Disneyland’s famous hot chocolate, a rich and creamy treat that’s perfect for any chilly day. This recipe blends cocoa, milk, and sweetened condensed milk to create a velvety drink topped with whipped cream and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 2–3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup high-quality cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1–2 tbsp grated milk chocolate
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅛ tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium until steaming with small bubbles forming at the edges, but do not let it boil.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and grated milk chocolate. Add ½ cup of the hot milk mixture and whisk until smooth to create a chocolate paste.
- Step 3: Pour the chocolate mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined and smooth.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the hot chocolate for 3–5 minutes, whisking often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more milk.
- Step 5: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra indulgent touch, substitute half of the milk with evaporated milk to enhance creaminess.
- Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle spicy kick.
- To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk and a non-dairy cream substitute, but keep the condensed milk or use a sweetened condensed coconut milk alternative.
Storage
Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture. Add a splash of milk when reheating if the mixture has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2%, skim, or plant-based milk, but this will slightly change the richness and texture of the hot chocolate.
How can I make the hot chocolate thicker?
Simmering the mixture a bit longer will help thicken it. You can also add more cocoa powder or reduce the amount of milk to achieve a richer consistency.
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Disneyland’s Rich and Creamy Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Disneyland’s Hot Chocolate recipe recreates the rich, creamy, and indulgent beverage you love from the Disney parks. Made with a blend of whole milk, heavy cream, high-quality cocoa, and sweetened condensed milk, this hot chocolate is luxuriously thick and topped with whipped cream, cinnamon, and optional chocolate shavings for an authentic experience.
Ingredients
For the Hot Chocolate Base
- 2–3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup high-quality cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1–2 tbsp grated milk chocolate
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅛ tsp vanilla extract
For Topping and Serving
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is steaming and small bubbles begin to form around the edges, but be careful not to let it boil.
- Mix Cocoa and Chocolate: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and grated milk chocolate. Add ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to the bowl and whisk until the cocoa and chocolate are completely smooth and combined.
- Combine Mixture: Pour the cocoa and chocolate mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly to blend evenly. Then add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the hot chocolate simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes. Stir frequently and continue whisking until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more milk to adjust.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and immediately top each serving with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and optionally, chocolate shavings. Serve hot for the authentic Disney park hot chocolate experience.
Notes
- Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a smoother, less acidic flavor.
- Do not let the milk boil to avoid scorching and altering the flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess, but you can reduce the amount for a less sweet drink.
- Adjust milk quantity to get your preferred thickness and richness.
- Chocolate shavings are optional but add extra chocolate flavor and a pretty presentation.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Disneyland hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate recipe, homemade hot chocolate, rich cocoa drink, sweetened condensed milk hot chocolate
