Indulge in the ultimate comfort with this unbelievably easy and delicious Nutella Hot Chocolate recipe. Perfect for chasing away winter chills or simply treating yourself to a moment of pure bliss, this rich and creamy beverage is a hazelnut-chocolate dream come true. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform ordinary hot chocolate into an extraordinary delight that will captivate your taste buds and warm you from the inside out.
Irresistible Nutella Hot Chocolate: Your New Favorite Cozy Drink
If you’re a fan of the iconic hazelnut spread, Nutella, prepare to have your world rocked by this incredible Nutella Hot Chocolate. This isn’t just any hot chocolate; it’s a decadent, velvety smooth experience that combines the classic comfort of cocoa with the rich, nutty notes of Nutella. My husband, a self-proclaimed Nutella enthusiast, can attest to its undeniable appeal – we always keep a couple of jars stocked in our pantry!
When I first suggested making a Nutella Hot Chocolate, his immediate question was, “How fast can it be ready?” That’s how eager he was, and that’s how truly simple this recipe is. While Nutella often finds its way into our desserts, this luxurious drink has quickly become a new favorite. And honestly, once you try it, you’ll start wondering what other magical concoctions you can create with this beloved spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious: With only three main ingredients, it’s incredibly simple to whip up.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in mere minutes, making it perfect for an instant craving.
- Ultimate Comfort: A warm, rich, and creamy drink ideal for cold days or a sweet treat.
- Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, especially Nutella lovers.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to dietary needs, different flavor profiles, or even an adult-only version.
The Magic of Nutella in a Mug
Nutella, the beloved hazelnut cocoa spread, brings a unique depth of flavor to traditional hot chocolate. Its creamy texture and distinctive hazelnut essence elevate the drink from a simple chocolate beverage to a gourmet experience. This recipe leverages Nutella’s inherent richness, requiring less added sugar and creating a naturally thick, luxurious consistency. It’s more than just hot cocoa; it’s a sip of pure comfort and indulgence.
Ingredients for Your Dreamy Hot Chocolate
Crafting the perfect Nutella Hot Chocolate requires minimal ingredients, ensuring a fuss-free experience. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for the best results. Specific measurements are included in the recipe card below, but this overview will help you understand the role of each item.
- Milk: The base of any great hot chocolate. We typically use whole milk for its rich, creamy texture, which contributes to a more decadent drink. However, feel free to experiment with any dairy or non-dairy milk alternative you prefer. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can create delicious variations while catering to different dietary needs.
- Nutella: The star of the show! This chocolate-hazelnut spread provides the signature flavor and a significant portion of the sweetness and creaminess. Using genuine Nutella ensures that authentic taste, but if you have a favorite off-brand hazelnut spread, that could work too. The quality of your Nutella will directly impact the final flavor profile.
- Cocoa Powder: While Nutella provides plenty of chocolate flavor, a touch of unsweetened cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate notes without making the drink overly sweet. It adds depth and a deeper, darker chocolate presence that balances the hazelnut beautifully.
Optional Garnishes for an Extra Touch
To truly elevate your Nutella Hot Chocolate, don’t skip the garnishes! These simple additions can transform your drink into a cafe-worthy masterpiece:
- Mini Marshmallows: A classic hot chocolate topping that melts into gooey, sweet perfection.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh, creamy whipped cream adds an airy texture and luxurious feel. Store-bought works too!
- Chocolate Shavings: Grate a bar of dark or milk chocolate over the top for an elegant finish and an extra cocoa kick.
- Drizzled Nutella: A swirl of warm Nutella on top of your whipped cream or directly into the drink before serving makes for a beautiful presentation and even more hazelnut goodness.
- Cinnamon or Cocoa Powder Dusting: A light dusting adds a hint of spice or extra chocolate aroma.
Equipment You’ll Need
You won’t need any fancy gadgets to make this simple hot chocolate. Basic kitchen tools are all it takes to create this delightful beverage.
- Saucepan: A small to medium-sized saucepan is perfect for heating and whisking your ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining the Nutella, cocoa powder, and milk, ensuring a smooth, lump-free hot chocolate.
- Mugs for Serving: Choose your favorite cozy mugs to enjoy your warm creation.
How to Make Nutella Hot Chocolate: Step-by-Step
Creating this rich and creamy Nutella Hot Chocolate is surprisingly simple. Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect cup every time:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, add your milk, Nutella, and cocoa powder.
- Whisk and Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Using a whisk, continuously stir the mixture until all ingredients are well blended, smooth, and thoroughly heated. Be careful not to let it boil; you want it hot and steamy, not scorching. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on your stovetop.
- Pour and Garnish: Once hot, carefully pour the Nutella hot chocolate into your favorite mug. Now for the fun part – add your desired garnishes! A generous swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or a handful of mini marshmallows will make your drink extra special.
Preparation and Storage Tips
Making your Nutella Hot Chocolate is quick, but here are some tips for enjoying it at its best or planning ahead.
- Make Ahead: This recipe is best enjoyed fresh. Because it comes together so quickly, we recommend preparing it just before serving to ensure the optimal temperature and texture.
- Storage: If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), allow the Nutella hot chocolate to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
- Freezing for a Cold Treat: Want a frozen version? Simply add all the ingredients to a blender filled with ice and blend until smooth and frosty. It makes a fantastic Nutella “frappuccino”!
- How to Reheat: To reheat leftover portions, gently warm them in the microwave for about two minutes, stirring halfway through, or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about this Nutella Hot Chocolate is how versatile it is! Feel free to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
- Substitutions for Milk: While cow’s milk offers the creamiest result, you can easily use any dairy-free milk alternative. Almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk all work wonderfully and are excellent options for those with lactose intolerance or other dietary restrictions.
- Vegetarian Option: This sweet beverage is inherently vegetarian, requiring no modifications.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, you will need to use a plant-based milk alternative (as mentioned above) and a vegan chocolate-hazelnut spread. Many brands now offer delicious dairy-free versions of Nutella.
- Gluten-Free: Good news! Nutella is confirmed to be a gluten-free product, making this recipe safe for those on a gluten-free diet. Always double-check labels for any other ingredients you might add.
- Boozy Hot Chocolate (Adults Only): For a grown-up twist, add a shot or two of your favorite liqueur. Frangelico, an Italian hazelnut liqueur, is a natural pairing. Other excellent options include Kahlúa (coffee liqueur), rum, bourbon, or Irish cream for an extra rich and warming kick.
- Scaling Up or Down: This recipe is designed for a single serving, making it incredibly easy to scale. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need for a crowd or halve them if you just want a small treat.
- Sugar-Free Version: The original recipe contains about 38 grams of sugar per serving. To make it sugar-free, look for sugar-free chocolate-hazelnut spreads, which are becoming more widely available, and ensure your cocoa powder is unsweetened. You may also need to add a sugar substitute to taste.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny dash of cayenne pepper for a Mexican hot chocolate flair.
- Minty Fresh: A drop of peppermint extract or a crushed candy cane garnish can transform it into a festive mint-chocolate delight.
Expert Tips for the Best Nutella Hot Chocolate
While this recipe is simple, a few pointers can ensure your hot chocolate is absolutely perfect:
- Low and Slow Heat: Avoid high heat, as it can scorch the milk and dull the flavors. Gently warm over medium heat, stirring constantly, until hot and steamy.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure all the Nutella and cocoa powder are fully incorporated into the milk. Any lumps will detract from the smooth, creamy texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Before pouring, take a small taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a tiny bit of sugar or an extra half-teaspoon of Nutella. If you want more chocolate intensity, a pinch more cocoa powder can help.
- Garnish Wisely: If dusting with cocoa powder or cinnamon on top of whipped cream, be mindful when taking your first sip. A deep inhale can lead to an unexpected “cocoa cloud” experience – speaking from personal experience, it’s not the most pleasant way to enjoy your drink!
- Warm Your Mug: For an extra luxurious experience, warm your mug with hot water before pouring in the hot chocolate. This helps keep your drink warmer for longer.
What to Serve with Nutella Hot Chocolate
This decadent Nutella Hot Chocolate is a treat in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of breakfast, brunch, or dessert items. It’s the perfect pick-me-up to start your day or a comforting indulgence anytime you need a sweet, warming beverage.
Sides:
- Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- Easy Pancake Muffins
- Muffin Mix Pancakes
- Air Fryer Sausage Links
- 3 Ingredient Sausage & Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
- Air Fryer Frozen Hashbrowns
- Air Fryer Toaster Strudel
- Air Fryer Bacon
- Sausage Breakfast Biscuit Cups
Main Dishes:
- Sausage Biscuit & Gravy Casserole
- Eggnog French Toast
- Crock Pot Cheese Grits
- Crock Pot Ham & Cheese Grits
- Crockpot Breakfast Casserole
- Pulled Pork Breakfast Hash
- Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- CopyCat Egg McMuffin
- Eggs in a Basket
Desserts:
- Raspberry Coffee Cake
- Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling Cobbler
- Lemon Dutch Baby
- CrockPot Cinnamon Monkey Roll Bread
- Bisquick Blackberry Cobbler
When to Serve Nutella Hot Chocolate
This versatile drink is perfect for almost any occasion that calls for a warm, comforting treat:
- Breakfast: A luxurious start to any morning.
- Brunch: An excellent addition to a festive brunch spread.
- Afternoon Snack: The perfect pick-me-up to combat an afternoon slump.
- Fall & Winter: Naturally suited for colder months and cozy evenings.
- Holidays: A delightful beverage for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
- Dessert: A lighter, drinkable alternative to a heavy dessert.
- Anytime You Crave Chocolate: Because, why not?
More Delicious Nutella Recipes
As you can tell, we’re big fans of Nutella around here! If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy this irresistible spread, check out some of our other favorite Nutella recipes:
- 2 Ingredient Nutella Fudge
- 3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies
- Nutella Mug Cake
- Nutella Banana Bread
- Nutella Pumpkin Bars
If you’re a hot chocolate aficionado, don’t miss our entire collection of Hot Cocoa Recipes for more delightful variations.
Do you love recipes? Check out our copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our CrockPot Recipes.
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Nutella Hot Chocolate
Delicious Nutella Hot Chocolate Recipe made from scratch
Prep Time: 3 minutes |
Cook Time: 5 minutes |
Total Time: 8 minutes
Servings: 1 |
Calories: 345 kcal |
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Milk
- 2 ½ tablespoons Nutella
- 1 Tablespoon Cocoa Powder
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk all ingredients together until well blended and hot.
- Pour into a cup and top with whipped cream and chocolate.
Kitchen Tools
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mugs for Serving
Nutrition Facts
Calories from Fat 135
Recipe originally shared on January 9, 2013. Updated October 2020.