Name: Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (488 g) whole milk; ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream; ½ cup (85 g) white chocolate chips; ⅓ cup (103 g) strawberry syrup, store-bought or homemade; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Fresh strawberries, halved or diced; White chocolate shavings; Pink or red sprinkles; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled, washed; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1-2 drops pink food coloring (optional); 8 ounces white chocolate, broken into pieces; 1 ½ cups strawberry Nesquik; ½ cup instant non-fat dry milk powder; Hot water or whole milk, for serving (about 6 ounces per mug)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 141 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy and delightful treat that feels like a warm hug in a mug, you absolutely have to try this Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe. It’s a playful and luscious twist on traditional hot chocolate, combining the rich creaminess of melted white chocolate with the fresh, fruity sweetness of strawberry syrup, resulting in a vibrant pink drink that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re winding down after a chilly day or looking for a beautiful beverage to impress guests, this recipe will quickly become a new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image showing a white pot filled with smooth, light pink soup. A black metal ladle lifts some of the soup, displaying its creamy texture and shiny surface. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a glass bowl of corn and a clear glass cup blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe relies on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role. The milk and heavy cream create a luxuriously smooth base, while white chocolate brings luscious sweetness and decadent texture. The strawberry syrup injects that irresistible, bright berry flavor and gorgeous color that sets this drink apart.

Whole milk (2 cups): Provides a creamy, rich foundation that balances sweetness perfectly.
Heavy whipping cream (½ cup): Adds extra silkiness and indulgence to every sip.
White chocolate chips (½ cup): Melt down to create a velvety, sweet chocolate layer that’s essential to this recipe.
Strawberry syrup (⅓ cup): Delivers the fresh berry flavor and gorgeous pink hue; store-bought or homemade both work wonderfully.
Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor, bringing a subtle warmth that complements the strawberries and white chocolate.
Optional garnishes: Whipped cream, fresh halved strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or pink/red sprinkles add visual flair and extra indulgence.

How to Make Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Milk and Cream

Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy whipping cream into a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat and gently warm the mixture until it’s steaming but not boiling, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This careful warming sets the stage for perfectly melting the white chocolate later.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

Once your milk and cream are heated, add in the white chocolate chips. Whisk constantly, ensuring that the chocolate melts smoothly and combines thoroughly to create a rich, creamy liquid. The whisking is key here to avoid any lumps and to get that velvety texture.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Syrup and Vanilla

Next, stir in the strawberry syrup and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until everything is fully incorporated and your hot chocolate’s color turns a beautiful pink. This step is where the magic happens, transforming traditional hot chocolate into a sweet, fragrant strawberry delight.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Divide the hot chocolate evenly into your favorite mugs. From here, it’s all about your favorite garnishes – a swirl of whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or even white chocolate shavings can elevate the experience to café-level indulgence.

How to Serve Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe

The image shows a clear glass mug filled with a thick pink drink that has a smooth and frothy texture. On top of the pink liquid, there are three round dollops of white whipped cream placed close together. Small white chocolate shavings are sprinkled over the whipped cream and around the rim of the glass. The mug sits on a dark wooden surface that is partially visible, and in the background, another glass filled with the same pink drink and topping is visible along with a glass jar filled with white chocolate pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The right toppings can make your Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe feel truly special. A big dollop of whipped cream adds airy sweetness, while fresh strawberry halves bring a bit of vibrant freshness and color. White chocolate shavings lend an extra layer of richness and a beautiful decorative touch. For a festive look, sprinkle on some pink or red sprinkles—they’re cute and add a little texture.

Side Dishes

This luscious drink pairs wonderfully with simple baked goods like buttery shortbread cookies, tender sugar cookies, or even a light almond biscotti. These sides allow you to balance the sweetness of the hot chocolate without overpowering it, making for a perfectly cozy snack or light dessert combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve your strawberry hot chocolate in clear mugs or glass teacups to showcase that gorgeous pink hue. Layer whipped cream tall and add a drizzle of extra strawberry syrup on top for a candy-shop vibe. For parties, consider small jars with lids to make “grab-and-go” strawberry hot chocolate mini servings—cute and convenient!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover strawberry hot chocolate, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that you may need to whisk it gently before reheating to reincorporate any separation and preserve that smooth texture.

Freezing

Freezing this drink isn’t ideal because the dairy and syrup can separate, and white chocolate textures can get disrupted. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short periods, but if you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your strawberry hot chocolate slowly on the stovetop over low heat, whisking occasionally to maintain creaminess and blend any ingredients that may have settled. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent scalding the milk or curdling the cream.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the whole milk and heavy cream for your favorite plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk along with coconut cream. Be sure to use dairy-free white chocolate to keep that creamy texture and sweet flavor.

How can I make homemade strawberry syrup?

Simmer fresh or frozen strawberries with sugar and a splash of water until soft, then mash and strain the mixture. Allow it to cool, and you have fresh, vibrant strawberry syrup perfect for this hot chocolate.

Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate?

You can, but the flavor and color will change. White chocolate is key for that creamy sweetness and beautiful pale background that lets the strawberry hue shine. Using milk or dark chocolate will give you a more traditional hot chocolate taste with a strawberry twist.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! This drink is a family-friendly treat. Just make sure to use a strawberry syrup without added alcohol or ingredients unsafe for children. The sweetness and color usually makes it a big hit with little ones!

How many servings does this recipe make?

This Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe yields about 3 cups, which is perfect for 3 generous servings or a smaller amount for 4, depending on how thirsty you are for this creamy delight.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Strawberry Hot Chocolate Recipe that goes beyond just flavor — it feels like a celebration in every warm, pink sip. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or want to impress friends with a unique and delicious drink, it’s a recipe worth keeping close. So grab your ingredients, gather your favorite mugs, and make some strawberry magic happen!