Name: Nutella Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 cup Milk; 0.5 cup Nutella; 0.5 cup Heavy Cream; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

You know those nights? The ones where it’s pouring rain outside, you’ve kicked off your shoes, and all you want is that ultimate comfort hug in a mug? Yeah, that’s exactly when this Nutella hot chocolate comes into play for me. It’s not just any hot chocolate; it’s like a warm, velvety blanket woven with hazelnutty chocolate goodness. Forget the powdery mixes that taste vaguely of cocoa and sugar – this is the real deal, the kind that makes your whole kitchen smell like a decadent dream. I remember the first time I truly nailed it; my husband took one sip and declared it “life-changing.” High praise, right? It’s definitely a step up from the basic hot cocoa my mom used to make, but it’s honestly just as easy, if not easier, once you get the hang of it. If you’ve ever loved a rich, creamy Chocolate Cake or a warm brownie fresh from the oven, you’re going to fall head over heels for this. This Nutella hot chocolate recipe is the kind of magic you can whip up without breaking a sweat, and it feels way more special than it has any right to be. It’s truly my go-to when a serious sweet craving hits, especially during those colder months, and honestly, sometimes even when it’s not that cold because, well, Nutella!

What Is Nutella Hot Chocolate?

So, what exactly *is* Nutella hot chocolate? Think of it as the super-sophisticated, incredibly indulgent cousin of your childhood hot cocoa. It’s essentially a rich, creamy hot beverage that ditches the typical chocolate syrup or powder for the star ingredient: Nutella. That beloved spread, with its perfect blend of chocolate and roasted hazelnuts, melts into milk to create a flavor profile that’s both familiar and completely next-level. It’s not just about adding a spoonful of Nutella, though; it’s about building a velvety smooth base that lets that distinct hazelnut-chocolate essence shine through. It’s essentially a warm hug made with dairy (or non-dairy alternatives!), a touch of sweetness, and that irresistible Nutella magic. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to curl up with a good book, or have a really good chat with someone you love. It’s simple in concept but profoundly satisfying in execution.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, if you’re a chocolate lover, and especially if you have a soft spot for that creamy, dreamy hazelnut goodness that is Nutella, you’re going to adore this. It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Let me break down why this recipe is my absolute favorite and why I think it will become yours too.

The Flavor Explosion: This is the main event, right? The combination of creamy milk and melted Nutella is just divine. It’s got that deep chocolate flavor you crave, but it’s elevated with that unique, slightly roasted, nutty undertone from the hazelnuts. It’s not overly sweet, either, which I really appreciate. It tastes like a gourmet dessert in a mug, and there’s no going back once you’ve tasted it. I sometimes add a tiny pinch of sea salt, and it just makes all the chocolate and hazelnut flavors pop even more.
Ridiculous Simplicity: Seriously, I can whip this up faster than I can make a pot of coffee on a groggy morning. There are no complicated steps, no weird ingredients you have to track down. It’s literally just a few things simmered together. This has been a lifesaver on busy weeknights when the kids are asking for something special, or when I’ve had a long day and just need a little bit of immediate comfort. You don’t need any fancy equipment either, just a saucepan and a whisk.
Budget-Friendly Bliss: Most of us already have milk and sugar in the house. The star, Nutella, is widely available and a jar lasts quite a while. Compared to buying fancy coffees or decadent hot chocolates from a cafe, this homemade version is incredibly economical. You get that indulgent, special treat feeling without the hefty price tag. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a splurge but really isn’t.
So Versatile! This isn’t a one-trick pony. You can totally customize it. Want it richer? Add a splash of heavy cream. Need it dairy-free? Almond milk or oat milk works like a charm, making it surprisingly creamy too! Feeling fancy? Top it with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even a few chocolate shavings. It’s perfect for a quiet moment alone, a cozy night in with your significant other, or even for a fun kids’ treat (just be sure to let it cool down plenty!).

What I love most about this Nutella hot chocolate is that it feels so luxurious and comforting, but it’s genuinely achievable for anyone, any time. It’s the kind of recipe that brings a smile to my face every single time I make it, and seeing the happy faces of my family enjoying it? Priceless.

How to Make Nutella Hot Chocolate

Quick Overview

This Nutella Hot chocolate is all about gently warming milk and melting in your Nutella until it’s smooth, creamy, and utterly delicious. We’re talking about a few simple steps: warming the milk, whisking in the Nutella, and a touch of sweetness if needed. It’s so straightforward that you can have a steaming mug of pure comfort in less than 10 minutes. This method ensures the Nutella melts perfectly without any fuss, giving you that signature smooth texture that makes this drink so special. It’s truly the easiest way to achieve that decadent, restaurant-quality hot chocolate right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dreamy Nutella hot chocolate to life. I like to keep things simple, but using quality ingredients really does make a difference!

For the Main Drink:
* Milk: 2 cups (whole milk makes it the creamiest, but 2% or even a good dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk works beautifully. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier for some reason!)
* Nutella: 3-4 tablespoons (This is the star, so don’t be shy! Adjust to your desired level of hazelnutty chocolate goodness. I usually go for 3 generous tablespoons for that perfect balance, but my kids sometimes ask for it with 4!)
* Sugar (Optional): 1-2 teaspoons (Depending on how sweet your Nutella is and how sweet you like your drinks. I often find I don’t need any extra sugar at all!)
* Vanilla Extract (Optional but Recommended): 1/2 teaspoon (Just a little splash really rounds out the flavors and adds a lovely depth.)
* Pinch of Salt (Optional): Just a tiny pinch enhances the chocolate flavor like magic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Warm the Milk

Pour your milk (whether it’s dairy or non-dairy) into a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. You want to warm the milk gently; the goal is to get it hot, but not boiling. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You’ll see a little steam rising and tiny bubbles forming around the edges of the pan.

Step 2: Add the Nutella

Once the milk is warm and steamy, add your measured Nutella directly into the saucepan. If you’re using sugar or a pinch of salt, add those in now too. Let the Nutella sit in the warm milk for about 30 seconds to start melting.

Step 3: Whisk Until Smooth

Now, grab a whisk and start stirring! Gently whisk the mixture, breaking up the Nutella and incorporating it into the milk. Keep whisking until the Nutella is completely melted and the drink is smooth, creamy, and a beautiful uniform brown color. This might take a minute or two. Make sure there are no pockets of Nutella hiding at the bottom.

Step 4: Add Vanilla (If Using)

If you’re adding vanilla extract, give it a stir in now. It’s best to add it towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its delicate flavor. Taste the hot chocolate and if you think it needs a little more sweetness, stir in that optional sugar now, whisking until dissolved.

Step 5: Heat Through

Continue to heat the mixture gently for another minute or two, stirring occasionally. You don’t want it to boil, just get nice and hot. The consistency should be velvety and smooth. If it feels too thick, you can add a tiny splash more milk; if it feels too thin, you can let it simmer *very gently* for another minute, stirring constantly, to thicken it slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Carefully pour the hot Nutella hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Now comes the fun part – garnishing! My favorite is a dollop of Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or even some chopped toasted hazelnuts for extra crunch and flavor. You could also add a drizzle of more Nutella, some chocolate shavings, or a cinnamon stick.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve immediately and savor every warm, hazelnutty, chocolaty sip. This is the perfect cozy treat!

What to Serve It With

This Nutella hot chocolate is so wonderfully versatile, it’s not just a standalone star but also a perfect companion to so many other delicious things. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it, depending on the occasion:

For Breakfast: While it feels like a treat, it’s surprisingly comforting with breakfast! I love a smaller mug of this alongside a simple bowl of oatmeal or some plain toast with butter. The rich, nutty sweetness is a lovely contrast to simpler morning flavors. It’s also amazing with a freshly baked croissant – the flaky pastry and warm chocolate are a match made in heaven.

For Brunch: Elevate your brunch game! Serve this in elegant glasses or mugs alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles. A swirl of whipped cream and a few fresh berries on top makes it look extra special. It’s a wonderful alternative to coffee or tea for your guests, especially if you know they have a sweet tooth.

As Dessert: This is where it truly shines. It’s the perfect accompaniment to almost any dessert. It’s divine with a slice of rich chocolate cake, brownies, or even a warm apple crumble. The hazelnut notes in the hot chocolate also pair beautifully with anything that has coffee or caramel flavors. I often serve a small cup after a heavier meal as a lighter, comforting end to the evening.

For Cozy Snacks: This is its most natural habitat! On a cold evening, or just when you need a little pick-me-up, this is pure bliss. I love having a big mug of it while watching a movie, curled up on the sofa. It’s also fantastic with cookies – think shortbread, sugar cookies, or even chocolate chip cookies. The simple act of dipping a cookie into warm Nutella hot chocolate is pure, unadulterated joy. My kids also love a smaller, slightly cooled portion with their graham crackers, making a sort of “deconstructed s’mores” experience.

Personally, my family has a tradition of making this on the first chilly evening of autumn. We all gather in the kitchen, make a big batch, and then take our mugs out to sit on the porch and watch the leaves fall. It’s those simple moments that make this recipe so special for us.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Nutella Hot Chocolate

Over the years, I’ve made countless batches of this Nutella hot chocolate, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that I think really help take it from good to absolutely incredible. I want you to have the best experience, so here are my top tips:

Nutella Quality Matters: While any jar of Nutella will do, using a fresh jar that hasn’t been sitting around for ages can make a difference in how smoothly it melts. Make sure you’re measuring it generously – this is the flavor powerhouse, after all!

Gentle Heating is Key: This is probably the most crucial tip. You don’t want to boil your milk, especially after adding the Nutella. Boiling can scald the milk, which affects the taste, and it can also cause the Nutella to separate or become oily. Keep the heat on medium-low and stir frequently. Think “warm and steamy,” not “rolling boil.”

Whisking Technique: Don’t just stir; *whisk*! A good whisk incorporates air, which helps create a smoother, more emulsified drink. Really get into the corners of the pan to make sure all the Nutella is fully melted and combined. If you see any lumps, keep whisking! This step ensures that delightful velvety texture.

Taste and Adjust: My taste buds aren’t yours, and the sweetness of Nutella can vary slightly. Always taste your hot chocolate before serving. If it’s not sweet enough for you, add a teaspoon of sugar (or your preferred sweetener) at a time, whisking until dissolved. If it’s too sweet, a tiny splash more milk can balance it out.

The Vanilla and Salt Magic: Seriously, don’t skip the vanilla extract if you have it. It adds a subtle depth that complements the chocolate and hazelnut beautifully without making it taste like vanilla. The tiny pinch of salt is a game-changer for bringing out the chocolate’s richness. It’s not enough to make it taste salty, just enough to make the chocolate flavor sing!

Dairy-Free Success: I’ve experimented with various non-dairy milks. Oat milk and almond milk tend to be the creamiest and work best. Soy milk can sometimes have a slight beany aftertaste, but it’s still a good option. The key is to use a “barista” or “creamer” version of the milk if you can find it, as they’re often thicker and richer.

Garnish Galore: While the drink itself is wonderful, a little garnish takes it over the top. Whipped cream is classic. A dusting of cocoa powder, a sprinkle of cinnamon, some finely chopped toasted hazelnuts, or even a few mini marshmallows all add visual appeal and extra flavor. For a truly decadent treat, a tiny drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top of the whipped cream is divine.

Preventing Skin Formation: If you’re not going to serve it immediately, or if you find a skin forming while it’s warming, you can place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the hot chocolate. This prevents air from touching the surface and stops that dreaded skin from forming.

Make Ahead (Sort Of): You can gently warm the milk and stir in the Nutella, but I find it’s best enjoyed freshly made. If you do need to make it a bit ahead, you can warm it up again gently, whisking well, but the texture is always best when it’s made right before you drink it.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Nutella hot chocolate is truly at its best when enjoyed fresh, but sometimes life happens, and you might have leftovers. Don’t worry, you can absolutely store and reheat it! Here’s how I like to handle it:

Room Temperature Storage: Honestly, I don’t recommend leaving this out at room temperature for more than an hour or so, especially if it’s warm in your house. The milk and dairy content means it’s best kept cool. If you’ve made it and plan to finish it within an hour, you can just leave it in the saucepan over very, very low heat, stirring occasionally.

Refrigerator Storage: If you have leftovers, the best place is the refrigerator. Pour the cooled hot chocolate into an airtight container or a jar with a lid. It should stay good in the fridge for about 2-3 days. The texture might change slightly, becoming a bit thicker, but it’s still perfectly salvageable.

Freezer Instructions: While not ideal, you *can* freeze Nutella hot chocolate. Let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. If using containers, leave a little headspace as liquids expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Freezing in ice cube trays is great for making quick, individual portions later!

Reheating:

Stovetop: This is my preferred method for reheating. Pour the refrigerated hot chocolate into a saucepan. Heat it over low to medium-low heat, stirring constantly. You’ll want to break up any thickened bits and ensure it’s heated through evenly. Be patient, and don’t let it boil.
Microwave: You can also reheat it in the microwave. Pour the cooled hot chocolate into a microwave-safe mug. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it’s hot. Be careful, as microwaves can heat unevenly, so stir well to avoid hot spots.
Frozen Cubes: If you froze it in ice cube trays, you can pop a few cubes into a saucepan with a splash of milk and heat gently, or place a few cubes in a mug and microwave them until melted and hot.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’ve added any garnishes that are like a glaze (e.g., a drizzle of melted chocolate), it’s usually best to add those *after* reheating, as they might not hold up well to reheating. Fresh whipped cream is always best added right before serving.

The key to reheating is gentle heat and constant stirring. You want to revive that creamy texture without compromising the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Nutella hot chocolate is naturally gluten-free because all the core ingredients (milk, Nutella, sugar, vanilla) are typically gluten-free. Always double-check your Nutella jar and any other additions you might use (like flavored syrups or certain types of chocolate shavings) to ensure they are certified gluten-free if that’s a concern for you. So yes, you can enjoy this delicious treat without worry!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Wait, zucchini? This recipe doesn’t actually call for zucchini! It’s purely a delicious concoction of milk and Nutella. Perhaps you’re thinking of a different recipe? If you *were* making something with zucchini and wondering about peeling, generally for baked goods like zucchini bread, peeling is optional. The skin adds a bit of texture and color, but peeling can result in a finer crumb and smoother texture. For this hot chocolate, though, no zucchini involved!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s a fun thought! While this is a beverage recipe, the core flavor profile of Nutella and chocolate could definitely inspire a muffin. You’d need to adapt it significantly by adding flour, leavening agents (like baking powder or soda), eggs, and likely adjusting the liquid and fat content. It would become a whole new baking project, but a Nutella chocolate muffin sounds absolutely divine! I might have to try developing that recipe soon!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

The sweetness primarily comes from the Nutella itself, which is already sweetened. If you find it’s not sweet enough for your liking, the easiest way to adjust is by adding a little extra sugar. Start with a teaspoon of granulated sugar, brown sugar, or even a touch of maple syrup or honey, stir well until dissolved, and then taste. You can add more in small increments until you reach your desired sweetness. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, a splash more milk will dilute the sweetness.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

Great question! While I often just use whipped cream and cocoa powder, there are tons of other delicious topping options if you don’t want a “glaze” or are looking for something different. You could sprinkle on some finely chopped toasted hazelnuts, mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce would also be amazing. You can also serve it as is – it’s delicious on its own!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my absolute favorite way to make Nutella hot chocolate. I really hope you give this a try, especially on one of those days when you just need a little bit of warmth and comfort. It’s more than just a sweet drink; it’s a moment of pure indulgence that you can create right in your own kitchen with minimal fuss. The way the rich chocolate melds with that distinct hazelnut flavor is just pure magic, and it always brings a smile to my face. If you’re a fan of simple, yet incredibly satisfying recipes that deliver big on flavor, this is definitely one for your repertoire. It’s so easy to customize, too, so feel free to play around with different milks or toppings to make it your own perfect cup.

If you loved this recipe and are looking for other cozy drinks or comforting treats, you might want to check out my recipe for [link to another relevant recipe, e.g., Creamy Chai Latte] or my decadent [link to another relevant recipe, e.g., Double Chocolate Cookies].

I can’t wait to hear how your Nutella hot chocolate turns out! Please feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts, any variations you tried, or just to say hello. Happy sipping!