Decadent Nutella Hot Chocolate: Your Ultimate Homemade Hazelnut Cocoa Recipe

Prepare to elevate your hot chocolate experience with this incredibly decadent Nutella Hot Chocolate. Forget everything you thought you knew about hot cocoa; this luscious drink, made effortlessly with just three core ingredients – rich dark chocolate, creamy milk, and a generous dollop of homemade hazelnut spread – will transform your winter evenings. One sip of this gourmet hazelnut cocoa, and you’ll find yourself craving its unique blend of sweet, nutty, and intensely chocolatey flavors all season long. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a mug, perfect for cozying up by the fire or sharing with loved ones.

mug of hot chocolate with whipped cream and melted chocolate

Have you ever fantasized about a hot chocolate that delivers an unparalleled depth of flavor, moving beyond the ordinary? The good news is, your dream hot chocolate is not only real but also astonishingly simple to prepare. By gently warming a trio of essential ingredients on your stovetop, you’ll create a steaming, frothy mug of this extraordinary Nutella Hot Chocolate. This isn’t just a seasonal treat; it’s a staple for any cold day, offering a comforting warmth that truly nourishes the soul. The beauty lies in its simplicity: a batch of healthy homemade Nutella, your preferred milk, and a quality dark chocolate. Together, these components meld into a rich, sugar-conscious hot chocolate bursting with the creamy, aromatic goodness of hazelnuts. It’s a healthy hot chocolate recipe you’ll want to revisit time and again, promising a taste that’s far superior to any store-bought mix.

Why Homemade Nutella Makes All the Difference

While store-bought hazelnut spreads are a convenient option, opting for homemade Nutella elevates this hot chocolate to a truly gourmet level. Commercial varieties are often loaded with refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial flavorings that can mask the true taste of hazelnuts and chocolate. Our recommended two-ingredient homemade Nutella offers a fantastic alternative, putting you in complete control of the ingredients. Made simply with raw hazelnuts and chocolate chips, it transforms into a silky-smooth, perfectly spreadable hazelnut chocolate paste in less than 15 minutes. This not only guarantees a fresher, more authentic hazelnut flavor but also results in a healthier base for your hot chocolate, free from unwanted additives and excessive sugars. The natural sweetness and roasted aroma of homemade hazelnut spread truly shine through, making every sip of your hot chocolate an absolute delight.

Irresistible Nutella Hot Chocolate: Recipe Features & Benefits

Our hazelnut-infused hot chocolate isn’t just delicious; it’s designed for convenience, customization, and pure enjoyment. Here’s what makes this recipe a must-try:

**Effortless Comfort:** A mug full of hazelnut hot chocolate is the quickest and easiest way to achieve blissful warmth and comfort during chilly winter days or any time you need a sweet escape.
**Simple, Wholesome Ingredients:** You only need three healthy, naturally refined sugar-free ingredients: your delicious homemade Nutella, your choice of milk, and quality dark chocolate. This minimalist approach ensures pure, unadulterated flavor.
**Endless Customization:** While perfect on its own, this recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. There’s ample room to experiment with additional toppings, infused flavors, and even a splash of your favorite spirits for an adult treat.
**Naturally Vegan-Friendly:** Easily adapt this recipe to fit a vegan lifestyle by simply selecting a dairy-free milk alternative and ensuring your dark chocolate is certified vegan. Enjoy all the richness without compromise.
**Gourmet Taste at Home:** Experience the luxury of a café-quality hot chocolate without leaving your kitchen. The combination of homemade hazelnut spread and dark chocolate creates a depth of flavor that store-bought mixes can’t match.

mug of hot chocolate with whipped cream and chopped chocolate

Key Ingredients for Your Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect Nutella Hot Chocolate. Understanding your options allows for a tailored experience that suits your taste and dietary preferences.

Milk: The Creamy Foundation

The type of milk you choose significantly impacts the final texture and richness of your hot chocolate. For the most luxuriously creamy and decadent homemade hot chocolate, whole milk is undoubtedly the best choice. Its higher fat content creates a velvety smooth mouthfeel that truly enhances the indulgent experience. However, if you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, there are plenty of excellent options that still deliver superb results:

**Oat Milk:** Known for its natural sweetness and creamy texture, oat milk is an excellent dairy-free choice that closely mimics the richness of whole milk. It blends beautifully without overpowering the chocolate and hazelnut flavors.
**Cashew Milk:** Offers a wonderfully creamy consistency and a subtly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the hazelnut in Nutella perfectly. It’s often thicker than almond milk, contributing to a richer drink.
**Almond Milk:** A popular lighter option, almond milk provides a delicate flavor and a thinner consistency. Opt for unsweetened varieties to control the overall sweetness of your hot chocolate.
**Coconut Milk (full-fat canned):** For an incredibly rich and exotic twist, use full-fat canned coconut milk. It will lend a distinct coconut flavor and a thick, creamy texture, making for an extra-indulgent beverage.
**Soy Milk:** A classic dairy-free option that provides a good balance of creaminess and a neutral flavor profile, allowing the chocolate and hazelnut to remain the stars.

Feel free to experiment with different milks to discover your favorite creamy base!

Homemade Nutella: The Heart of the Flavor

As mentioned, our healthy homemade Nutella is the secret weapon for this recipe. Unlike many store-bought hazelnut spreads, which are often packed with excessive sugar and unhealthy fats, this homemade version is a revelation. All you need are high-quality raw hazelnuts and your favorite chocolate chips to create a silky-smooth, perfectly spreadable chocolate hazelnut spread in under 15 minutes. The process of making it yourself ensures a fresh, vibrant hazelnut flavor that truly elevates your hot chocolate. The roasted hazelnuts provide a deep, earthy note that harmonizes exquisitely with the chocolate, creating a complex and satisfying taste that can’t be replicated with processed alternatives. Its inherent richness means less added sugar is needed, making this a more mindful indulgence.

Dark Chocolate: The Richness Factor

The choice of chocolate is crucial for a well-balanced Nutella Hot Chocolate. I personally prefer to make this recipe with a good quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate bar, typically in the 60-75% cocoa range. This level of darkness provides a robust chocolate flavor that beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the Nutella and milk, preventing the drink from becoming cloyingly sweet. It adds a sophisticated bitterness that rounds out the hazelnut notes.

While dark chocolate is recommended for a balanced profile, you can certainly use a bar of milk chocolate if you have a sweeter palate or prefer a milder chocolate taste. However, be aware that using milk chocolate will result in a significantly sweeter finished cocoa, so you might want to adjust any additional sweeteners accordingly. When selecting your chocolate, look for high-quality baking bars or couverture chocolate for the best melting properties and flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Perfect Nutella Hot Chocolate

Making this luxurious hot chocolate is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a truly delightful treat:

Step 1: Prepare Your Hazelnut Spread

If you haven’t already, the first crucial step is to prepare your homemade hazelnut spread. Gather your raw hazelnuts and chocolate chips and follow my easy recipe for homemade Nutella. This ensures the freshest flavor and allows you to control the quality of your ingredients. Having this ready beforehand makes the hot chocolate assembly quick and seamless.

Step 2: Gently Heat and Combine

Pour your chosen milk into a small saucepan. Add the homemade Nutella and the chopped dark chocolate. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Begin whisking the mixture constantly. The goal here is to gently melt the chocolate and Nutella into the milk, creating a smooth, homogenous liquid. Continuous whisking is key to prevent the chocolate from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning, and to ensure an even, creamy consistency. Continue whisking until the chocolate is fully melted, the Nutella has completely dissolved, and the mixture is hot, smooth, and wonderfully creamy. Pay close attention to the heat; avoid boiling the milk, as this can affect its texture and flavor. The ideal temperature is steaming hot, but not bubbling vigorously.

saucepan with milk and chopped chocolate on the left and with melted chocolate milk on the right

Step 3: Pour, Top, and Savor

Once your Nutella cocoa has reached its perfect temperature and consistency, carefully pour it into your favorite mug. Now comes the fun part: adding your desired toppings! This is where you can truly personalize your drink. Immediately serve and savor every warm, comforting sip of your freshly made hazelnut hot chocolate.

Expert Tips and Frequently Asked Questions for the Best Hot Chocolate

Elevate Your Toppings Game

While the Nutella hot chocolate is divine on its own, toppings are essential for a complete experience. **Marshmallows and whipped cream** are timeless classics for a reason. As they slowly melt into the hot cocoa, they contribute an extra layer of decadence and creaminess that is simply irresistible. But don’t stop there! Feel free to go all out with additional embellishments:

**Chocolate Sprinkles or Shavings:** Add a delightful visual appeal and an extra hint of chocolate flavor.
**Chocolate Syrup Drizzle:** Create artistic patterns and boost the chocolate intensity.
**Cinnamon Sticks or Star Anise:** For a touch of spice and elegance, use these as stirrers or garnishes.
**Crushed Toffee Bits or Caramel Drizzle:** For an added layer of sweetness and texture.
**Chopped Hazelnuts:** Reinforce the hazelnut theme with a crunchy garnish.
**A Pinch of Sea Salt:** A tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top can surprisingly enhance all the chocolate flavors.

Sweetness Control for Your Palate

If you find your hot chocolate isn’t quite sweet enough for your liking, consider sweetening the batch with 1 to 2 tablespoons of a natural liquid sweetener. **Maple syrup** is an excellent choice, adding a subtle depth of flavor that complements both chocolate and hazelnut. Other natural sweeteners like agave nectar or even a touch of date syrup can also work beautifully. For a truly sugar-free option, you could experiment with a few drops of liquid stevia or a small amount of erythritol, adjusting to taste.

Microwave Method for Quick Indulgence

In a rush or only making a single serving? You can still enjoy this amazing hot chocolate using your microwave: whisk the milk, Nutella, and chopped chocolate together thoroughly in a large, microwave-safe mug. Microwave the mixture in short 15 to 30-second increments, making sure to whisk well in between each interval. Continue this process until the Nutella and chocolate are fully melted and smoothly incorporated, and the drink is hot to your desired temperature.

What else can I add to my hot chocolate for extra flavor?

Beyond the basic recipe, the possibilities for flavor enhancement are vast. A dash of extract can transform your hot chocolate:

**Hazelnut Extract:** Intensify the inherent nuttiness for a more profound hazelnut experience.
**Vanilla Extract:** A classic enhancer, adding warmth and depth to the chocolate.
**Peppermint Extract:** Perfect for a festive holiday twist, creating a minty chocolate delight.
**Orange Extract:** Infuse a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with dark chocolate.
**Coconut Extract:** For a tropical undertone, especially lovely if you’re using coconut milk.

You can also stir in various sauces or spices:

**Chocolate Sauce:** For an even richer, deeper chocolate profile.
**Salted Caramel Sauce**: Adds a luxurious sweet and salty dimension.
**White Chocolate Syrup:** For a sweeter, creamier, and visually appealing marble effect.
**Spices:** A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny dash of cayenne pepper can add a warming kick and complex aroma. Consider a chai spice blend for an exotic touch.

How do you spike hot chocolate for adults?

For an indulgent adult treat, spiking your Nutella hot chocolate is a fantastic idea. Add 1 to 1.25 ounces of your chosen alcohol per serving. It’s crucial to stir the alcohol into the saucepan right before pouring the hot chocolate into your mug. Adding it too early in the heating process will cause the alcohol to cook off, diminishing its flavor and effect. The nutty and chocolatey notes of this hot chocolate pair exceptionally well with a variety of spirits:

**Bourbon or Whiskey:** Adds a warm, smoky, and slightly sweet undertone.
**Rum (dark or spiced):** Contributes a comforting sweetness and depth, especially spiced rum with its complex aromatics.
**Irish Cream Liqueur:** For a creamy, sweet, and coffee-tinged enhancement.
**Brandy or Cognac:** Offers a fruity, oaky warmth that complements the chocolate beautifully.
**Hazelnut Liqueur (e.g., Frangelico):** Intensifies the hazelnut flavor, creating an ultra-nutty experience.
**Coffee Liqueur (e.g., Kahlua):** For a mocha-like twist with a hint of coffee.
**Orange Liqueur (e.g., Triple Sec or Cointreau):** Introduces a bright, citrusy element that cuts through the richness.

Always enjoy responsibly!

Can I make this Nutella Hot Chocolate for a party or a larger gathering?

Absolutely! This Nutella Hot Chocolate is a perfect crowd-pleaser for parties, holiday gatherings, or any event where you want to serve a warm, comforting beverage. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. You can easily scale this recipe up for a large batch by heating the ingredients together in a generously sized pot on your stove or, even better, in a slow cooker.

To make Nutella hot chocolate in a slow cooker (Crockpot), combine the milk, homemade Nutella, and chopped dark chocolate in the slow cooker insert. Whisk continuously over High heat until the chocolate melts and the mixture begins to simmer gently. Once everything is smooth and hot, switch the slow cooker to the “Keep Warm” mode. This allows your guests to enjoy hot chocolate throughout the event without you needing to constantly monitor the stove. Set up a delightful hot chocolate bar alongside it with various mugs, spoons, and an array of toppings (whipped cream, marshmallows, sprinkles, chocolate shavings, cinnamon sticks, mini cookies) and boozy mix-ins. This way, your friends and family can customize their own perfect cup, making the experience interactive and fun.

What else can you make with your homemade Nutella?

Your batch of homemade Nutella is incredibly versatile and shouldn’t be limited to just hot chocolate! Put it to delicious use with even more sweet treats and delightful snacks:

**Nutella Brownies**: Fudgy brownies with swirls of rich hazelnut chocolate.
**Nutella Cake**: A moist cake infused with the irresistible flavor of Nutella.
**Nutella Cupcakes**: Portable, delightful treats topped with hazelnut goodness.
**Nutella Sandwich**: A classic comfort, elevated with homemade spread.
**As a Dip:** It’s perfect for dipping fresh strawberries, apple slices, banana chunks, or salty pretzels.
**On Toast or Pancakes:** Spread it generously on warm toast, waffles, or pancakes for a decadent breakfast.
**Mixed into Oatmeal or Yogurt:** Stir a spoonful into your morning oatmeal or plain yogurt for a flavorful boost.
**Straight from the Spoon:** Let’s be honest, sometimes the best way to enjoy homemade Nutella is simply with a spoon!

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Hot Chocolate

If you happen to have any leftover Nutella Hot Chocolate (a rare occurrence!), proper storage and reheating will ensure you can enjoy it again.

**Refrigerator Storage:** Allow any extra Nutella hot chocolate to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This prevents any off-flavors and maintains freshness.
**Gentle Reheating:** To reheat, pour the chilled hot chocolate into a small saucepan. Warm it gently over low to medium-low heat, stirring often. The key is to reheat it slowly to prevent scorching the milk and separating the chocolate. Continue stirring until the hot chocolate is fully reincorporated and warmed to your liking. Avoid boiling.

Explore More Cozy Winter Drink Recipes

If you love this Nutella Hot Chocolate, be sure to check out these other delightful winter beverage recipes:

Orange Hot Chocolate: A zesty and chocolatey blend.
Boozy Hot Chocolate: For a festive adult-only treat.
Vanilla Rosemary Latte: A unique and aromatic coffeehouse-style drink.

Nutella Hot Chocolate

By
Erin Alvarez

Servings:
1

Prep:
5 mins

Cook:
5 mins

Total:
10 mins

This downright decadent Nutella Hot Chocolate is easy to make with 3 ingredients: homemade hazelnut spread, dark chocolate, and milk. One sip and you’ll never go back to regular hot chocolate again!

Ingredients

1 cup milk, any kind
3 tbsp Nutella, preferably homemade
1 oz. dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions

If you haven’t already, make my easy 2-ingredient homemade Nutella.
Add milk, Nutella, and chocolate to a saucepan and whisk to combine. Once the chocolate has melted, heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and hot, being careful not to burn it.
Pour hot chocolate into a mug and enjoy!

Notes

*Calories are per serving and are an estimation.

Nutrition