Winter-Spiced Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream

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

A cozy hot chocolate infused with warming winter spices and topped with fluffy whipped cream for a comforting winter drink. This recipe, ready in about 12 minutes, brings together whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar 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 230 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
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small saucepan, whisk together 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
2. Step 2: Slowly pour in 2 cups whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps, then heat the mixture over medium heat until steaming hot but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract for warmth and depth.
4. Step 4: In a chilled bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream with 1 tbsp powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
5. Step 5: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and top generously with the whipped cream. Serve immediately for a cozy winter treat.