Creamy Caramel Marshmallow Cocoa

This creamy caramel marshmallow hot cocoa is the ultimate cozy treat for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something sweet and comforting. It brings together the rich flavors of cocoa and caramel with the soft melt of marshmallows for a drink that feels like a warm hug.

I first made this during a rainy weekend and the combination of caramel and marshmallow instantly became my go-to antidote for dreary days. Now it’s a family favorite that brightens up movie nights and lazy afternoons.

Ingredients

• Milk: whole or 2 percent works best for creaminess but use your preferred milk for a lighter version
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: key for deep chocolate flavor look for Dutch processed for a smoother taste
• Granulated sugar: balances the bitterness of cocoa adjust to your sweetness preference
• Semisweet chocolate chips: optional but add lush chocolate richness when melted in
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth and rounds out the chocolate and caramel notes
• Caramel sauce: the star ingredient providing buttery sweetness and a luscious texture homemade or store bought both work well
• Mini marshmallows: classic topping that melts into gooey pockets of sweetness
• Whipped cream: optional for an extra indulgent finish
• Pinch of sea salt: enhances all the flavors especially the caramel and chocolate

Instructions

Combine Ingredients:

In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk followed by the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. Add a pinch of sea salt if using. Whisk everything together gently to start combining the cocoa and sugar with the milk.

Heat the Mixture:

Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk continuously. This prevents the cocoa from clumping and helps the sugar dissolve evenly. Heat until the mixture is hot but do not let it come to a boil as that can scorch the milk and affect the flavor. This step should take about five minutes.

Add Chocolate Chips:

If you want extra richness, stir in the semisweet chocolate chips once the milk mixture is hot. Continue whisking until the chips have fully melted and the liquid is silky smooth.

Incorporate Caramel and Vanilla:

Pour in the caramel sauce and add the vanilla extract while stirring. Keep the heat moderate so the caramel melts completely and blends seamlessly with the chocolate base. This adds a deep buttery sweetness and an inviting aroma.

Pour and Top:

Divide the hot cocoa evenly into two mugs. Pile mini marshmallows generously on top so they soften and create gooey pockets. For an extra touch drizzle caramel sauce over the marshmallows and add whipped cream if you like before the marshmallows.

Caramel sauce is my all-time favorite ingredient here because it adds sweetness with a depth that chocolate alone cannot reach. I remember making this for the first time on a cold winter evening and seeing my kids’ faces light up as they dug into the marshmallow topped mugs. It has become a tradition to gather around with this treat whenever the cold winds blow outside.

Storage Tips

For best freshness and flavor keep leftover hot cocoa in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave being careful not to scorch the milk base. Store additional caramel sauce separately to drizzle fresh before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy free version though creaminess will be less rich. Coconut milk adds a tropical note that complements caramel well. Swap granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different natural sweetness profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hot cocoa with buttery cookies or a slice of banana bread to balance the sweetness with some texture. Fresh fruit skewers like strawberries or bananas dipped into the marshmallows make fun dipping companions.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg in autumn for warm spice hints. Peppermint extract or crushed candy canes in winter turn this into a festive holiday drink. Serve chilled over ice with caramel drizzle and marshmallows for a summer twist.

Serve warm with extra caramel drizzle. It’s an easy indulgent treat to share on cozy nights.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of milk works best for this hot cocoa?

Whole milk provides the creamiest texture, though 2% or your preferred milk can also be used to suit dietary needs.

→ Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Yes, the cocoa powder offers rich chocolate flavor, but chocolate chips add extra smoothness and depth.

→ How does the pinch of sea salt affect the flavor?

The sea salt enhances the sweetness and intensifies the caramel and chocolate notes for a balanced taste.

→ What is the best way to melt marshmallows on top?

Add mini marshmallows after pouring the drink and let the heat gently soften them, or briefly broil for a toasted finish.

→ Is whipped cream necessary?

Whipped cream adds a rich, airy texture and complements the drink but can be skipped for a lighter option.