White Hot Chocolate
This white chocolate and Frangelico hot chocolate is pure indulgence in a mug. Rich, creamy white chocolate melted into warm milk creates a luxurious base, while Frangelico hazelnut liqueur adds sophisticated warmth and depth. It's the kind of drink that turns a cold evening into something special, perfect for curling up by the fire or serving at festive gatherings. The combination is absolutely divine, and it takes just 15 minutes from start to finish. You can easily make this non-alcoholic by skipping the Frangelico and adding a splash of hazelnut syrup instead.
White Chocolate and Frangelico Hot Chocolate
Luxurious white chocolate hot chocolate spiked with Frangelico hazelnut liqueur. Rich, creamy, and indulgent - perfect for cozy evenings or festive entertaining.
Ingredients
- 700ml whole milk
- 200g good-quality white chocolate chips (see notes)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- 70ml Frangelico (or to taste)
- Grated dark chocolate, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the milk into a small saucepan and set it over a medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Add the white chocolate chips and whisk gently until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the Frangelico. Taste and adjust if you'd like it stronger
- Pour into warmed mugs and top with whipped cream if you like, then finish with grated dark chocolate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
765Fat
44 gSugar
77 gProtein
18 gCarbs
77 gApproximate values per serving
Ingredients and Sourcing Tips
White chocolate
Quality matters enormously here. Look for white chocolate with a high cocoa butter content rather than cheap stuff made with vegetable oil. I use Callebaut W2 white chocolate callets which are professional-grade and melt beautifully with a balanced, creamy flavour. Other good brands include Green & Black's, Lindt, or Valrhona. White chocolate chips or callets work brilliantly because they melt smoothly, but you can chop a bar instead. Avoid white chocolate with added flavourings for this recipe.
Milk
Whole milk gives the richest, creamiest result. You can use semi-skimmed if you prefer something lighter, but don't go lower than that or it'll taste thin. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat oat milk or coconut milk from a carton - both work beautifully with white chocolate.
Frangelico
This Italian hazelnut liqueur is what makes this hot chocolate special. It has a sweet, nutty flavour that pairs perfectly with white chocolate. You'll find it in most supermarkets in the spirits section or any good off-licence. If you can't find Frangelico, Amaretto works well too, though it has a more almond-forward flavour.
Vanilla extract
Use proper vanilla extract rather than essence - the flavour is so much better. A good quality extract adds warmth and rounds out the sweetness.
Salt
Just a tiny pinch of fine sea salt balances the sweetness and makes the chocolate flavour sing. Don't skip it.
Variations and Dietary Swaps
Non-alcoholic version
Skip the Frangelico and add 2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup instead. Monin make an excellent hazelnut syrup that works perfectly here.
Dairy-free
Use full-fat oat milk or coconut milk from a carton instead of dairy milk. Make sure your white chocolate is dairy-free too - brands like Nomo make good versions. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Extra indulgent
Replace 100ml of the milk with double cream for an even richer drink. Top with whipped cream, crushed hazelnuts, and white chocolate shavings.
Coffee twist
Add a shot of espresso along with the Frangelico for a boozy white chocolate mocha.
Different liqueurs
Try Baileys for an Irish cream version, or Amaretto for an almond flavour. Kahlua works beautifully if you want a coffee note.
Spiced version
Add a small pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg along with the vanilla for a warming spiced note.
Mint version
Skip the Frangelico and add a few drops of peppermint extract for a white chocolate mint hot chocolate.
Kitchen Notes
Temperature control
Don't let the milk boil or you'll get a skin on top and risk splitting the chocolate. Keep it at a gentle steam - you should see wisps of steam rising but no bubbles breaking the surface.
Melting the chocolate
Whisk gently and constantly as the chocolate melts. If you whisk too vigorously you'll create too much foam. If the chocolate isn't melting smoothly, your heat might be too low - increase it slightly but keep whisking.
Adjusting sweetness
White chocolate is very sweet, so the pinch of salt is crucial. If you find it too sweet even with the salt, add a tiny squeeze of lemon juice - it won't make it taste lemony but will cut through the sweetness.
Alcohol strength
70ml Frangelico between two mugs gives a noticeable boozy warmth without being overwhelming. If you want it stronger, add up to 100ml total. For a lighter touch, use 50ml.
Warming mugs
Fill your mugs with boiling water while you make the hot chocolate, then pour it out just before serving. Warm mugs keep the drink hot for longer.
Scaling up
This recipe doubles or triples easily if you're making it for a crowd. Just use a larger saucepan and whisk thoroughly to ensure even melting.
Make ahead
You can make this up to the point of adding the Frangelico, then gently reheat when ready to serve. Don't let it boil when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
How to serve
Pour into warmed mugs immediately while it's piping hot. The drink should be smooth and creamy with no lumps of chocolate.
What to serve alongside
This is rich enough to be dessert on its own, but it pairs beautifully with biscotti, shortbread, or gingerbread for dunking. Serve it after dinner as a warming digestif, or make it the centerpiece of a cozy night in. It's also wonderful for festive gatherings - make a big batch and serve from a warming pot.
Toppings
Whipped cream is classic and adds even more indulgence. Grated dark chocolate on top provides a beautiful contrast to the white chocolate base. You could also try crushed hazelnuts, mini marshmallows, or a dusting of cocoa powder. A cinnamon stick makes a lovely stirrer and adds subtle spice.
Portion sizes
This makes 2 very generous mugs. It's quite rich, so these portions are perfect for a luxurious treat.
