Polar Express Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction

Warm up with a cup of Polar Express Hot Chocolate, a rich and creamy drink perfect for cozy winter days. This luxurious hot chocolate blends chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and a hint of hazelnut liqueur for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups half and half or whole milk
• 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup chopped dark or milk chocolate
• 2-3 tablespoons hazelnut liqueur
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped cream, plus extra for serving
• Flaky salt, a pinch

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the milk, chocolate chips, chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, hazelnut liqueur, vanilla extract, and a pinch of flaky salt to a small pot or your preferred cooking vessel.
2. Step 2: For the stovetop method, place the pot over medium-low heat and stir frequently until the milk is hot but not boiling and the chocolate is fully melted.
3. Step 3: Once steaming, whisk in the whipped cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and generously top with whipped cream before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the hazelnut liqueur or replace it with a teaspoon of hazelnut extract.
• Use half and half for a richer drink, or whole milk for a lighter option.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy twist.
• Microwave and crockpot instructions are great alternatives when time or equipment is limited.

Storage

Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture. Whipped cream topping is best added fresh before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this hot chocolate without alcohol?

Yes, simply leave out the hazelnut liqueur or replace it with hazelnut extract to keep the flavor without the alcohol.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover hot chocolate?

Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and to keep it smooth.

Polar Express Hot Chocolate Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 378 reviews

• Author: Jack
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Polar Express Hot Chocolate recipe brings a rich, creamy, and luxurious hot chocolate experience inspired by the beloved holiday tale. Made with a blend of half and half or whole milk, semi-sweet and dark chocolate, cocoa powder, hazelnut liqueur, and vanilla extract, it’s a decadent treat perfect for cold winter nights. Finished with generous dollops of whipped cream and a sprinkle of flaky salt, this beverage is a cozy and indulgent delight for the entire family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Hot Chocolate Base

• 4 1/2 cups half and half or whole milk
• 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup chopped dark or milk chocolate
• 2–3 tablespoons hazelnut liqueur
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

For Serving

• 1 cup whipped cream, plus more for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Hot Chocolate Base: In a small pot over medium-low heat, add the half and half or whole milk, mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped dark or milk chocolate, unsweetened cocoa powder, hazelnut liqueur, vanilla extract, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is hot and scalding, but not boiling, ensuring the chocolates fully melt and blend smoothly.
2. Incorporate Whipped Cream: Once the mixture reaches the desired heat and is steaming, gently stir in the whipped cream to add creaminess and richness to the hot chocolate base. Whisk well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
3. Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with generous dollops of whipped cream and, if desired, sprinkle a tiny bit more flaky salt to enhance the flavor contrast. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth.
4. Alternative Microwave Method: Combine all hot chocolate base ingredients in a microwave-safe glass measuring cup. Microwave on high for 1 minute, whisk well, add whipped cream, and microwave for an additional minute until steaming. Pour and top with more whipped cream.
5. Alternative Crockpot Method: Place all hot chocolate base ingredients into a crockpot. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Keep warm up to 2 additional hours until ready to serve. Stir in whipped cream before serving.

Notes

• If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit the hazelnut liqueur or substitute with a hazelnut-flavored syrup.
• Use half and half for a richer, creamier texture, or whole milk for a lighter hot chocolate.
• Adjust the chocolate type and quantity based on your sweetness and bitterness preference.
• Be careful not to boil the milk mixture to prevent scorching and separation.
• Flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate flavors and adds a sophisticated touch; omit if preferred.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: hot chocolate, cocoa, Polar Express, holiday drink, winter beverage, hazelnut liqueur, whipped cream, creamy hot chocolate