Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it tastes like a dessert café drink but takes less than 15 minutes to make at home. The caramel gives it a buttery richness, the dark chocolate keeps it from being too sweet, and the sea salt makes the flavors pop. It feels elegant enough to serve at a holiday gathering, but it’s also just the kind of comforting treat I make for myself on a chilly evening.

Ingredients

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

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup caramel sauce

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Sea salt, for garnish

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, I heat the milk and cream over medium heat until warm but not boiling.

2. I stir in the caramel sauce and chocolate chips, whisking constantly until both are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

3. I remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. I pour the hot chocolate into mugs, sprinkle lightly with sea salt, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Extra caramel drizzle: I drizzle more caramel sauce inside the mug or on top for extra richness.

• Boozy twist: A splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or bourbon makes this an indulgent adult drink.

• White chocolate version: I replace the dark chocolate chips with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor.

• Spiced caramel: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne adds warmth and a subtle kick.

• Dairy-free: I use almond milk or oat milk with coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

This hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh, but if I have leftovers, I refrigerate them in a sealed jar for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, whisking to bring back the creamy texture. I avoid microwaving as it can cause the chocolate to separate.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but I prefer dark chocolate because it balances the caramel’s sweetness. Milk chocolate will make the drink richer and sweeter.

What kind of caramel sauce works best?

I like using homemade or high-quality store-bought caramel sauce. Salted caramel sauce works too, but I still add a light sprinkle of sea salt for balance.

How can I make it thicker?

I simmer the hot chocolate for a few extra minutes or add an extra tablespoon of caramel sauce for a thicker consistency.

Can I make this for a crowd?

Yes, I double or triple the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker set to “keep warm.” Guests can ladle it into mugs and add their own sea salt garnish.

What toppings go well with this drink?

Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, shaved chocolate, or even crushed pretzels make fun toppings that enhance the salty-sweet theme.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is a cozy yet elevated twist on the classic. With its rich, creamy texture and irresistible sweet-salty balance, it’s the perfect drink to enjoy on a cold evening or to impress guests during the holidays. Every sip feels like a little bit of indulgence—and that’s exactly why I keep coming back to it.