Nutella Hot Chocolate

Nothing feels more comforting on a chilly day than wrapping your hands around a warm mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate. Now, imagine taking that classic coziness up a notch with a swirl of Nutella — yes, the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread we all know and secretly sneak spoonfuls of straight from the jar. Nutella hot chocolate is the kind of drink that instantly makes you feel indulgent without being overly complicated to make.

What makes this version stand out is its smoothness and depth of flavor. Nutella brings in that nutty undertone that plain cocoa just can’t deliver on its own. It’s a sweet upgrade that feels luxurious yet simple enough to whip up in minutes. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in, hosting a casual get-together, or looking for a special treat for the kids, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of fun and sophistication.

Another reason Nutella hot chocolate has become a favorite for many is its versatility. You can keep it classic with just milk and Nutella, or dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Some people like to add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt to give it an extra twist. It’s one of those drinks that invites creativity while still guaranteeing a deliciously comforting result every time.

At the heart of it, Nutella hot chocolate isn’t just about satisfying a craving — it’s about creating a moment. The process of stirring Nutella into warm milk, watching it melt into a silky blend, and finally taking that first sip feels like a tiny act of self-care. It’s indulgent without being fussy, nostalgic yet modern, and always worth making again and again.

Why You’ll Love It

• Creamy and indulgent: The Nutella melts seamlessly into warm milk, creating a silky-smooth texture that’s richer than regular hot chocolate.
• Quick and easy: With just a couple of ingredients and a few minutes on the stove, you can have a café-worthy drink ready to sip.
• Versatile: You can keep it simple or get fancy with whipped cream, marshmallows, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or sea salt.
• Kid-friendly (and adult-approved): It’s a fun treat for kids, but the nutty depth of flavor makes it sophisticated enough for grown-ups too.
• Perfect for cozy moments: Whether it’s a cold evening, a lazy weekend morning, or a movie night, this drink sets the mood for comfort and warmth.

Ingredient List

• 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
• 4 tablespoons Nutella
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1–2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream or marshmallows, for topping (optional)

Ingredient Notes

• Milk: Whole milk makes it extra creamy, but you can swap in almond, oat, or soy milk if you prefer a dairy-free version.
• Nutella: The star of the recipe — don’t skimp! A generous scoop makes the drink smooth and flavorful.
• Cocoa powder: Balances the sweetness of Nutella with a rich, chocolatey depth.
• Sugar: Optional depending on how sweet you like your hot chocolate. Taste before adding more.
• Toppings: Whipped cream, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of extra Nutella make it feel like a café treat at home.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan – To heat the milk and melt everything together. I love using a non-stick one because cleanup is easier.
• Whisk – Helps blend the Nutella smoothly into the milk without clumps. A small balloon whisk works perfectly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To keep the balance of cocoa, Nutella, and sugar just right.
• Ladle – For pouring the hot chocolate neatly into mugs (and avoiding spills).
• Mugs – The cozier and bigger, the better. I usually grab my oversized ceramic mug for that perfect café feel.

Instructions

Step 1: Warm the Milk

• Pour 2 cups of milk into a medium saucepan.
• Place the pan over medium heat.
• Let the milk warm gently — you want steam rising, but not boiling.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally so the milk doesn’t scorch at the bottom.

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Step 2: Add the Nutella

• Scoop 4 tablespoons of Nutella into the warm milk.
• Let it sit for about 20–30 seconds to soften.
• Begin whisking slowly, breaking up the Nutella so it melts evenly into the milk.

Pro Tip: Whisk continuously at this stage — it helps create that silky, lump-free texture.

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Step 3: Stir in Cocoa and Sugar

• Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.
• Add 1–2 tablespoons of sugar, depending on your sweetness preference.
• Continue whisking until both are fully dissolved and the mixture looks smooth and chocolatey.

Pro Tip: Taste before adding more sugar — Nutella already brings plenty of sweetness.

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Step 4: Heat to Perfect Temperature

• Let the hot chocolate warm for another 2–3 minutes.
• Stir occasionally, making sure it doesn’t boil (boiling can change the flavor and make it grainy).
• Once it’s piping hot and velvety, remove from heat.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Use a ladle to carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
• Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of extra Nutella.
• Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every sip.

Pro Tip: For an extra treat, dip the rim of your mug in Nutella before pouring the drink — it adds a fun café-style touch!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t rush the milk: Heating it too quickly can cause scorching — gentle heat makes all the difference.
• Whisk, don’t stir with a spoon: A whisk blends the Nutella and cocoa much more smoothly, giving you that café-quality finish.
• Adjust sweetness gradually: Start with less sugar and add more only if needed — Nutella already brings natural sweetness.
• Serve immediately: Hot chocolate tastes best fresh; reheating can make it lose that silky texture.
• Upgrade the toppings: A dusting of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or even shaved chocolate takes it to the next level.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Milk alternatives: Swap whole milk for oat, almond, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
• Extra chocolatey: Add a handful of chocolate chips while whisking for an even richer flavor.
• Spiced twist: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne for warmth and spice.
• Mocha version: Replace half a cup of milk with brewed coffee for a Nutella mocha.
• Salted Nutella hot chocolate: Add a tiny pinch of sea salt — it deepens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Iced version: Chill the prepared hot chocolate, pour over ice, and top with whipped cream for a summer treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic cozy style: Top with whipped cream and mini marshmallows — perfect for curling up with a blanket and a good book.
• Nutella drizzle: Warm a spoonful of Nutella and drizzle it over the whipped cream — it looks café-worthy and tastes incredible.
• Holiday vibes: Add a candy cane stir stick for a peppermint twist. I love doing this around Christmas — it feels festive and fun.
• Movie night treat: Serve alongside a plate of cookies (shortbread or chocolate chip are my go-to pairings).
• Personal favorite: I sometimes dip biscotti or buttered toast into my Nutella hot chocolate — it’s indulgent but so satisfying!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Let leftovers cool completely, then pour into a sealed jar or container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating on the stove: Pour into a saucepan and warm gently over low heat, whisking often to bring back the silky texture.
• Reheating in the microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until hot.
• Refreshing the flavor: Whisk in a splash of fresh milk or a tiny spoon of Nutella when reheating to revive creaminess.
• Avoid boiling: Overheating can cause the milk to separate and lose its smooth consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without cocoa powder?

Yes! You can skip the cocoa if you want a lighter, more Nutella-forward flavor. The cocoa just adds extra depth and richness.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely — just use almond, oat, or soy milk. Nutella itself contains milk, but you can swap it with a dairy-free hazelnut-chocolate spread if needed.

How do I make it less sweet?

Cut back on the sugar and use dark cocoa powder. You can also add a tiny pinch of sea salt to balance the flavors.

Can I make a big batch for a crowd?

Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Keep it warm in a slow cooker or insulated carafe for easy serving.

Is this safe for kids?

Definitely. Kids love it — just let it cool a little before serving. For little ones, you can skip the cocoa powder to keep it milder.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently on the stove. Just whisk again before serving to restore the creamy texture.

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Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

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