Kids Hot Chocolate Recipe

Warm the milk

Pour 4 cups whole milk into a medium saucepan and warm over medium-low heat. Heat gently until steam rises and small bubbles form around the edge (do not boil), about 5–7 minutes.

Mix cocoa and sugar

While milk warms, whisk together 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and 4 teaspoons granulated sugar in a small bowl to break up any lumps.

Create a chocolate slurry

Add 2–3 tablespoons of the warmed milk to the cocoa-sugar mixture and whisk until a smooth paste forms (this prevents lumps).

Combine and melt chocolate

Pour the cocoa slurry back into the saucepan with the warm milk. Add 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly over low heat until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, 2–3 minutes. Do not let it boil.

Finish and flavor

Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Taste and add a little more sugar if a sweeter drink is desired (1 teaspoon at a time).

Add marshmallows for kids

Divide hot chocolate into 4 heat-safe cups (about 1 cup per serving). Top each cup with a small handful (about 1/4 cup) of mini marshmallows so they soften on contact with the hot drink.

Optional whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream to each cup if desired.

Sprinkle toppings: Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon, 1/2 tablespoon chocolate shavings per cup, and extra mini marshmallows or crushed candy cane pieces if using.

Serve safely: Allow hot chocolate to cool slightly for younger children before serving. Test temperature to ensure it's safe for the child's age.