Cinnamon and Clove Spiced Hot Chocolate with Orange Zest

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-04 · Updated 2026-05-04

A rich, creamy hot chocolate infused with warming cinnamon, clove, and bright orange zest — perfect for cozy winter evenings. This American-inspired Christmas recipe, ready in about 15 minutes, brings together whole milk, dark chocolate chips, ground cinnamon for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole milk
• 6 oz dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• for topping (optional) whipped cream

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat 3 cups whole milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Step 2: Whisk in 6 oz dark chocolate chips, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1 tsp orange zest, and 2 tbsp granulated sugar. Stir continuously until chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth and steaming, about 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired before serving immediately.