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Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate

Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate

This Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate combines velvety white chocolate, buttery caramel, and a hint of sea salt for a cozy, Parisian-inspired treat. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting, decadent drink.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% for lighter version, or non-dairy milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, divided (1/4 cup for caramel, 1/4 cup for hot chocolate base; optional for extra richness)
  • 4 ounces chopped white chocolate or 2/3 cup white chocolate chips (use high-quality with cocoa butter)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for caramel sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt or fleur de sel, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
  • Extra caramel sauce (for drizzling, optional)
  • White chocolate shavings (for topping, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1/3 cup granulated sugar. Stir constantly as it melts and turns golden.
  2. Once melted and amber-colored, add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir until fully combined (it will bubble up).
  3. Slowly pour in 1/4 cup heavy cream, whisking as you go. The mixture will bubble and hiss.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Set aside.
  5. Prepare the Hot Chocolate Base: In a clean saucepan, heat 2 cups whole milk and 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional) over medium-low heat until steamy but not boiling.
  6. Add 4 ounces chopped white chocolate (or 2/3 cup white chocolate chips). Whisk constantly until melted and smooth.
  7. Pour in about half of the caramel sauce and whisk to combine. Taste and add more caramel if desired.
  8. Assemble and Serve: Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of remaining caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or white chocolate shavings.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Use high-quality white chocolate with cocoa butter for the smoothest texture. Caramel sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and dairy-free white chocolate. Taste as you go to adjust sweetness and saltiness. If caramel seizes, add a splash of cream and whisk vigorously.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel, white hot chocolate, Parisian hot chocolate, cozy drinks, winter drinks, homemade hot chocolate, caramel hot chocolate, French hot chocolate, comfort drink, easy hot chocolate