Red Velvet Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
Warm up with a cozy cup of Red Velvet Hot Chocolate, a decadent twist on a classic favorite. This rich and creamy drink combines chocolate and a hint of vanilla with a striking red color, making it perfect for any special occasion or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring (adjust to desired color)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon red sand sugar (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy whipping cream over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Step 2: Gradually add the chopped chocolate, stirring constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Step 3: Stir in the red gel food coloring and the vanilla extract. Add more food coloring if needed to reach your preferred shade of red.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with the whipped cream, and sprinkle with red sanding sugar for a festive finish.
Tips & Variations
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk and coconut cream.
- Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
- Adjust the amount of red gel food coloring to personalize the vibrancy of the drink.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of peppermint extract for a seasonal twist.
Storage
Store any leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness. The whipped cream topping is best prepared fresh before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives such as almond, soy, or coconut milk. Choose dairy-free chocolate to keep the recipe vegan.
How can I make the whipped cream more stable?
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream. You can also add a small amount of cream cheese or gelatin to help it hold its shape longer.
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Red Velvet Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in this luxurious Red Velvet Hot Chocolate, a decadent twist on classic hot cocoa. Combining rich bittersweet chocolate with creamy milk and a vibrant touch of red food coloring, this cozy drink is topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream and festive red sanding sugar. Perfect for a festive treat or comforting evening beverage.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring (adjust to desired color)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon red sanding sugar (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the dairy mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy whipping cream. Warm the mixture gently until it is hot but not boiling, preparing it as the base for the hot chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate: Gradually add 1 cup chopped bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate to the hot milk and cream mixture, stirring continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add color and flavor: Stir in 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the hot chocolate mixture. Continue adding food coloring as needed to achieve the perfect vibrant red color.
- Whip the topping: In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a lush whipped cream topping.
- Serve: Pour the red velvet hot chocolate into serving mugs. Top each with a generous dollop of the whipped cream and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon red sanding sugar for a festive finishing touch.
Notes
- Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best rich cocoa flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red gel food coloring to reach your desired shade of red without affecting taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy hot, creamy texture and fresh whipped cream topping.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free chocolate.
- Red sanding sugar adds a festive sparkle, but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet, Hot Chocolate, Holiday Drinks, Chocolate Beverage, Festive Drinks, Whipped Cream Topping
