Name: Strawberry Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped; 2 tablespoons honey (or sugar); 4 cups milk (regular or dairy-free); 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: 1-2 drops natural red food coloring; Whipped cream, for topping

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I’m excited to share my version of strawberry hot chocolate—a sweet, creamy twist on classic hot chocolate, packed with real strawberry flavor and topped with whipped cream for that comforting touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this drink combines the richness of white chocolate with the natural sweetness of strawberries. It feels like sipping on a chocolate-covered strawberry in mug form, perfect for cozy evenings or a special treat any time. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in just 15 minutes!

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
Honey (or sugar, if preferred)
Milk (regular or dairy‑free)
White chocolate chips (for that velvety base)
Vanilla extract
Optional: a drop or two of natural red food coloring
Whipped cream, for topping

directions

Prepare the strawberry puree
- Cooked method: Combine chopped strawberries and honey in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring often until they break down. Blend smooth, then pass through a sieve to remove seeds.
- Cold method: Macerate strawberries with honey for 10 minutes, blend, and strain seeds—no cooking needed.
Make the white hot chocolate
- In a saucepan, gently heat the milk to a simmer. Remove from heat just before boiling and stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Add ½ to ¾ cup of the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
- If the color isn’t vibrant enough, add 1–2 drops of red food coloring.
Serve
- Divide the hot chocolate among mugs, top generously with whipped cream, and enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

Yields: 4 mugs
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~15 minutes

Variations

Swap milk: I sometimes use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy‑free version.
Try different chocolates: A few dark or milk chocolate chips can add depth.
Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg gives a warm, cozy twist.
Toppings: Marshmallows, chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a fresh strawberry make it extra festive.

storage/reheating

I like to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave and whisk until smooth again—add a bit of milk if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! I often use frozen—just let them thaw completely before blending so they release their juice properly.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes. If your strawberry puree is rich and vibrant, it looks beautifully pink without extra coloring.

What kind of white chocolate works best?

High-quality chips or bars melt more smoothly and give richer flavor—I prefer brand-name white chocolate chips.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the strawberry puree ahead and refrigerate it for a day. Just heat it along with the milk and chocolate when you’re ready to serve.

Is this drink gluten‑free?

Yes! All ingredients—milk, strawberries, white chocolate (if certified gluten‑free), and honey—pose no gluten risks.

Conclusion

I adore how strawberry hot chocolate transforms a simple drink into something special. With its creamy texture, real fruit flavor, and

Strawberry Hot Chocolate

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 mugs
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A sweet, creamy twist on classic hot chocolate, packed with real strawberry flavor, white chocolate, and topped with whipped cream.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
2 tablespoons honey (or sugar)
4 cups milk (regular or dairy-free)
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1-2 drops natural red food coloring
Whipped cream, for topping

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Instructions

Prepare the strawberry puree by cooking chopped strawberries and honey in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Blend until smooth, then strain to remove seeds. Alternatively, macerate strawberries with honey for 10 minutes, blend, and strain without cooking.
In another saucepan, gently heat milk until simmering (do not boil). Remove from heat, add white chocolate chips, and stir until melted and smooth.
Add ½ to ¾ cup strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the milk and chocolate mixture. Stir well. Add red food coloring if desired.
Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Add dark or milk chocolate chips for extra depth.
Spice it up with cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist.
Top with marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles for extra fun.
Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add milk if needed.