Name: Decadent Hot Chocolate with Maple Whipped Cream
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; ½ teaspoon cornstarch; ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips; ¼ cup white chocolate chips; ⅓ cup heavy cream; ½ teaspoon confectioners’ sugar; ½ teaspoon maple syrup

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This cozy, indulgent hot chocolate is my favorite way to warm up on a chilly night. Made with a blend of dark and white chocolate, whole milk, and topped with maple-infused whipped cream, it’s a rich and creamy treat that feels like a hug in a mug—no alcohol needed. Whether I’m winding down after a long day or simply craving something sweet and warm, this hot chocolate always hits the spot. Decadent Hot Chocolate with Maple Whipped Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how luxurious this drink tastes with so little effort. The combination of dark and white chocolate creates a deep, smooth flavor that’s perfectly balanced—not too bitter and not too sweet. Skipping the alcohol doesn’t take anything away from this recipe; the maple whipped cream adds just the right amount of warmth and complexity. It’s perfect for both kids and adults who want a comforting chocolate drink without the booze.

Ingredients

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

2 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon cornstarch
⅓ cup dark chocolate chips
¼ cup white chocolate chips
⅓ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon confectioners’ sugar
½ teaspoon maple syrup

Directions

I whisk the milk and cornstarch together in a medium saucepan until smooth.
Then I heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until it just starts to boil.
I take the pan off the heat and stir in the dark and white chocolate chips until they melt completely and the mixture turns silky and rich.
While the hot chocolate is resting, I whip the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar and maple syrup in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form.
I pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top each one with a generous spoonful of maple whipped cream—or sometimes I go for marshmallows if I’m feeling playful.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 generous servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

For a dairy-free option, I like to use oat milk and coconut cream. It adds a slightly different flavor but still turns out creamy and delicious.
If I’m feeling festive, I stir in a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract for extra warmth.
For a deeper chocolate flavor, I sometimes add a little more dark chocolate and skip the white.
Want it even sweeter? A drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup on top of the whipped cream works wonders.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to keep it smooth. The whipped cream is best fresh, but if I store it in the fridge, I give it a quick whisk before serving.

FAQs

Can I use just one type of chocolate?

Yes, if I only have dark or white chocolate, I go ahead and use what I have. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious.

Why add cornstarch to hot chocolate?

I add cornstarch because it helps thicken the drink, making it extra creamy and velvety—just the way I like it.

Can I make this in the microwave?

Yes, I sometimes microwave the milk and cornstarch mixture in short intervals, stirring frequently. Once it’s hot, I stir in the chocolate until melted.

Is this sweet enough for kids?

Absolutely. I find the blend of chocolates and maple whipped cream makes it perfectly sweet for little ones without being too sugary.

Can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes make the whipped cream a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick whisk before serving if it settles.

Conclusion

This no-alcohol hot chocolate with maple whipped cream is everything I want in a cozy, comforting drink. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for any time I want a warm treat—whether I’m curled up on the couch or sharing it with someone I love. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit.