Winter-Spiced Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-08 · Updated 2026-08-08

A cozy, warming hot chocolate infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream. This dessert recipe (vegetarian), 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 340 calories and feeds 2, 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

• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 oz dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Nonstick skillets worth buying → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat 2 cups whole milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, about 4 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add 4 ounces dark chocolate chips, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg to the hot milk. Whisk continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
5. Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with the whipped cream. Serve immediately.