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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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