Loaded Hot Chocolate With A Crunchy Twist! A Recipe Perfect For The Holidays

It’s warm, creamy, and dripping with whipped cream. This loaded hot chocolate is less of a drink and more of a full-on festive dessert—and we’re absolutely here for it.

Why We Love This Recipe

Every year, right after Halloween, my family kicks off the Christmas season with a good ol’ Home Alone marathon and an over-the-top decorating session. Think: shiny silver ornaments, garlands wrapped down the staircase, gold bows, and—of course—plenty of snacks.

After all the decorating and sparkle fluffing, there’s one tradition we never skip: making homemade hot chocolate. And this year’s version? Might just be our favourite yet.

We’re talking creamy hot chocolate loaded with whipped cream, topped with festive marshmallows, melty chocolate, chocolate crispearls, and the game-changer: a crunchy chunk of More Granola’s Hot Cocoa Granola.

Seriously… you’ll need a spoon for this one.

Why This Hot Chocolate Recipe Works

• Just 6 simple ingredients

• Ready in under 10 minutes

• Customizable with toppings galore

• Can be made dairy-free or low sugar

• It doubles as a cozy dessert

Loaded Hot Chocolate Recipe (Serves 2)

Ingredients

• ½ cup milk (of choice)

• ½ cup half & half

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar (white or brown)

• 2 tbsp melted Lindt Extra Creamy Milk Chocolate

• 2–3 drops vanilla extract

Toppings

• Whipped cream (to taste)

• Saxon Chocolates "Snowed In" marshmallows

• Chocolate crispearls from Chocolatta Gourmet

• Shaved Lindt 90% dark chocolate

• 1 medium chunk of More Granola – Hot Cocoa flavour

Note: Don’t skip the granola. It turns your hot chocolate into a crunchy, creamy masterpiece.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, warm your milk and half & half.

Step 2:

Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until fully combined.

Step 3:

Add chopped/melted Lindt chocolate and whisk until smooth.

Step 4:

Stir in vanilla extract. This tiny touch enhances the richness of the chocolate.

Step 5:

Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, leaving room for toppings.

Step 6:

Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate crispearls, shaved chocolate, and your granola chunk. Serve hot!

Make It Your Own

Healthier Alternatives

• Swap half & half for almond or oat milk

• Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar

• Try 70–90% dark chocolate for a deeper flavour

Flavour Upgrades

• Add a shot of espresso for a mocha kick

• Use peppermint or hazelnut extract

• Drizzle with salted caramel or add cinnamon

• Whip up flavoured whipped cream like vanilla bean or candy cane

Hot Chocolate FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Make the base ahead and reheat gently. Add toppings fresh before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free? Absolutely. Almond or oat milk works beautifully.

Is the granola necessary? Let’s be honest—it’s the whole vibe. It’s the crunch that completes this dessert.

Let’s Talk!

Let us know in the comments what you’d load your hot chocolate with. Spiked? Vegan? Candy cane toppings? We want to hear it!