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White Chocolate Orange Almond Hot Chocolate

A creamy and luxurious hot chocolate made with melted white chocolate, fresh orange zest, and toasted almonds for a bright, nutty twist.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Hot Chocolate Base
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 6 oz white chocolate chopped
  • 1 tbsp orange zest fresh
  • 1 tbsp orange juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup optional
Garnish
  • 0.25 cup sliced almonds toasted
  • 1 tbsp whipped cream optional
  • 1 tsp orange zest extra for garnish

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mugs
  • Zester

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
  2. Add orange zest and let it infuse for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Reduce heat to low. Add chopped white chocolate and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Stir in orange juice, vanilla extract, almond extract, and honey/maple syrup (if using). Whisk until fully combined.
  5. Toast sliced almonds in a small pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  6. Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, extra orange zest, and toasted almonds.
  7. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.

Notes

For a richer drink, use half-and-half instead of milk. Adjust orange zest and almond extract to taste.