Name: Disneyland’s Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 cups whole milk; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup high-quality cocoa powder; 1-2 tablespoons grated milk chocolate; 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk; ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream, for topping; Ground cinnamon, for garnish; Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

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Introduction

Disneyland’s hot chocolate is famously rich, thick, and utterly comforting. This recipe recreates that magical treat at home, delivering a creamy and indulgent drink that’s perfect for cozy days or anytime you need a little extra warmth and sweetness.

A clear glass cup with a handle is filled with dark brown hot chocolate, topped with a layer of small white marshmallows scattered unevenly and dusted with light brown cocoa powder. The cup sits on a white tray with a blue floral pattern around the edge, and three cinnamon sticks lie neatly on the left side of the tray. There is a small pile of loose cocoa powder on the right side of the tray, and in the blurred background on a white marbled surface, there is a glass jar shaped like a castle along with a cookie and a few scattered marshmallows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2-3 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup high-quality cocoa powder
1-2 tablespoons grated milk chocolate
14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream, for topping
Ground cinnamon, for garnish
Chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Pour 2-3 cups of whole milk and ½ cup of heavy whipping cream into a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is steaming and tiny bubbles form around the edges. Be careful not to let it boil to avoid scalding.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup cocoa powder and 1-2 tablespoons grated milk chocolate. Add about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to this bowl and whisk until smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Slowly pour the chocolate mixture back into the saucepan while whisking constantly. Add the entire can of sweetened condensed milk and ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until completely combined and smooth.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the hot chocolate thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if needed.
Step 5: Ladle the hot chocolate into heat-resistant mugs. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Add chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the authentic Disneyland experience.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the richest flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and cream with coconut or oat milk and use a dairy-free chocolate alternative.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle spicy kick.
Whipped cream can be homemade or store-bought—either adds a lovely creamy finish.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until hot and smooth. Avoid boiling to maintain texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A clear glass mug filled almost to the top with rich dark brown hot chocolate, topped with a layer of white marshmallows scattered on the surface, each marshmallow lightly dusted with brown cocoa powder. The mug has a clear handle and is placed on a white rectangular tray with a thin brown rim. On the tray, beside the mug, are three long cinnamon sticks neatly aligned and a small pile of ground cinnamon powder dusted on the tray. The tray rests on a white marbled surface with a blurred background showing a glass jar with a castle design, a few marshmallows, and a cookie nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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% or even plant-based milk, but the final texture may be less rich and thick than the original recipe.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the whole milk and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk, use vegan chocolate and cocoa powder, and substitute sweetened condensed milk with a homemade or store-bought vegan condensed milk alternative.