Santa’s Favorite Hot Cocoa: A Cozy Christmas Treat
As the winter winds whistle through the trees and the world outside turns into a frosty wonderland, there’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of Christmas hot cocoa. But not just hot cocoa—this one has some magic. Inspired by that sweet scene in The Santa Clause where Judy the Elf hands Scott Calvin a steaming cup, this Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe will surely warm your heart and sweeten your spirit.
“Not too hot. Extra chocolate. Shaken, not stirred.” – Judy the Elf, The Santa Clause (1994)
Whether you’re curled up watching Christmas movies or coming in from feeding animals on a snowy morning, this cocoa is like a warm hug from the inside out, with the tastes of a Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe. Let’s dive into this homemade hot chocolate with just the right amount of Southern charm and Santa’s favorite fixings. A perfect winter treat, this Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe is bound to make your holiday season memorable.
A Sip of Nostalgia
If you’re a child of the ’90s or a Christmas movie lover, The Santa Clause is probably on your annual watchlist. Judy’s Christmas hot cocoa stole the show with her 1,200-year-old recipe, and fans have been trying to recreate that perfect cup ever since. According to Delish, the scene left such an impression that it inspired bakers and home cooks alike to chase that dreamy flavor profile through their own Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe.
But don’t worry—we have a version that comes close. Marshmallows melt right into the milk, creating that silky texture. A mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate gives it depth. And a splash of vanilla? That’s the kicker in this Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe.
The Secret to Santa’s Favorite Cocoa
Good hot cocoa doesn’t come from a packet—it comes from the heart (and a little stovetop love). According to Taste of Home, the secret to truly decadent cocoa lies in using real chocolate instead of just cocoa powder. Our blend is rich, creamy, and sweetened naturally by the melted marshmallows in this Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe.
Add in your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a mug full of magic that’s just right for a Christmas morning treat or a cozy evening by the fire.
PrintSanta-Inspired Hot Cocoa
This rich, creamy Santa-inspired hot cocoa is the perfect holiday treat for chilly days. Its festive red hue, decadent chocolate flavor, and fun toppings will warm your heart and get you into the holiday spirit.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Holiday
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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2 cups milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Red food coloring (optional)
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Whipped cream
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Mini marshmallows
Instructions
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Heat Milk and Cream: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
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Melt Chocolate and Dissolve Sugar: Add 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the sugar is dissolved.
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Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
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Add Food Coloring (Optional): For a festive touch, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the desired shade of red is achieved.
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Serve: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs. Top with whipped cream and mini marshmallows.
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Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or crushed candy canes for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
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To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk.
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For an extra frothy texture, use a hand-held blender or milk frother after Step 4.
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Serve with a candy cane or peppermint stick for a fun, festive stirrer.
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Pair with holiday cookies for the ultimate seasonal treat.
Why This Cocoa’s So Special
It’s not just homemade hot chocolate—it’s a little tradition in a mug. Something special happens when you melt down real chocolate and stir in fluffy marshmallows. According to The Kitchn, homemade cocoa hits differently because it’s customizable and cozy—just like Christmas should be when using this Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe.
The marshmallows melt into the milk, making it sweet and silky without going overboard. The chocolate? Rich and deep. And that vanilla… don’t skip it. It rounds everything out and gives it that “what is that delicious flavor?” quality.
Make It a Memory
Set up a little hot cocoa bar with toppings in mason jars, festive mugs, and a slow cooker to keep things warm for guests. Kids and grown-ups alike can customize their cocoa with toppings like:
- Crushed candy canes
- Mini marshmallows
- Caramel drizzle
- Cinnamon sugar
- Holiday sprinkles
- Whipped cream mountains
It’s perfect for Christmas Eve gatherings, snow days, or even a “Santa’s workshop” themed pajama breakfast.
Final Thoughts
There’s something nostalgic and wholesome about stirring up a pot of cocoa that would make even Santa trade in his milk. This hot chocolate will bring comfort and joy if you’re making it for family, neighbors, or yourself after a long day of wrapping presents, and the Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe will surely help.
So grab your favorite mug, turn on The Santa Clause, and sip something magical with this Santa Claus hot cocoa recipe.
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