You’ve probably had your fair share of cozy hot chocolate, but trust me when I say this Red Velvet Hot Chocolate will completely change the game. Picture this: the rich, smooth creaminess of classic hot chocolate, but with a luxurious twist of velvety red velvet cake flavor. It’s the perfect treat for a chilly day, a festive gathering, or whenever you just want to indulge in something special. And the best part? It’s as easy to make as it is delicious. One sip, and you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket with a touch of chocolatey magic. Trust me—you’re going to love this!
Why You’ll Love Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is not just a beverage; it’s an experience. Whether you’re sipping it by the fireplace, serving it at a holiday party, or just treating yourself on a snowy day, this drink brings a sense of joy with every creamy, chocolaty sip. Here’s why this is the next hot chocolate recipe you need in your life:
Unique and Decadent
This isn’t your typical hot chocolate. Red Velvet Hot Chocolate has all the richness you love in hot cocoa, with the added twist of red velvet cake flavor, which is perfect for those who crave something a little more indulgent.
Simple to Make
Even though this hot chocolate sounds fancy, it’s super simple to prepare. You only need a few ingredients, and it’s ready in less than 10 minutes. Yes, this easy-to-make drink is both decadent and quick—couldn’t get better than that!
Festive and Fun
Red velvet is a classic treat for holidays and special occasions, but this drink is perfect for any time you want to make something feel a little more special. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or a regular Tuesday night, this hot chocolate makes it feel like a celebration.
Cozy Comfort
There’s something so comforting about a cup of hot chocolate. Add in the gorgeous red hue and the velvety flavor, and you’ve got the ultimate cozy treat. It’s like drinking dessert in a mug, and who can resist that?
Customizable
Want to make it even more indulgent? Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. You can play with the toppings to suit your personal style and make this drink as decadent as you like.

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Ingredients
The ingredients list for this Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is simple but full of flavor. You probably have most of them already!
Milk
Whole milk creates the creamy base for the hot chocolate. It adds the richness you want, but you can swap it out for a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk if preferred.
Red Velvet Cake Mix
This is the secret ingredient that gives this hot chocolate its distinctive red velvet flavor. It’s just the right balance of cocoa and vanilla, giving the drink a unique, cake-like taste.
Cocoa Powder
To add extra chocolatey depth to the hot cocoa, unsweetened cocoa powder brings the perfect level of richness without being too sweet.
Sugar
Just a touch of sugar to sweeten the deal. Since the red velvet cake mix already has sugar, you don’t need much.
Vanilla Extract
A hint of vanilla enhances the flavor profile, giving it that classic, comforting warmth.
Whipped Cream (Optional)
For that perfect finishing touch, whipped cream adds a light and fluffy contrast to the creamy drink. It’s optional, but highly recommended!
Red Sprinkles or Red Velvet Crumbs (Optional)
For a festive flair, you can top off the hot chocolate with red sprinkles or crushed red velvet cake crumbs. It adds a fun pop of color and texture.
Instructions
Ready to indulge? Here’s how to make this indulgent Red Velvet Hot Chocolate.
Heat the Milk
In a medium saucepan, pour in your milk and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t scald. You’ll want it hot but not boiling—just enough to make the milk steamy and ready to mix.
Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Once your milk is heated, whisk in the red velvet cake mix, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until everything is fully dissolved and you have a smooth, velvety mixture. The red velvet cake mix will give the drink its rich color and flavor, while the cocoa powder adds depth.
Bring It Together
Continue stirring until the mixture is hot and fully combined. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nice and steamy, and you can smell the delicious aroma of chocolate and vanilla. At this point, it should look like a rich, red velvet drink.
Serve and Top
Pour your Red Velvet Hot Chocolate into your favorite mug. Top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream (if desired). For extra fun, sprinkle on some red velvet cake crumbs or red sprinkles for a festive touch.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 270
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 160mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 7g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 8%
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
Total Time: 7-9 minutes
How to Serve Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
This Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is perfect for sipping on its own, but it also pairs well with other treats. Here are a few ideas:
Serve with Dessert
Pair your hot chocolate with something sweet, like a slice of red velvet cake, chocolate chip cookies, or even some fluffy marshmallows.
As a Gift
Want to share the joy? You can make this hot chocolate as a gift by packaging the red velvet cake mix and other dry ingredients in a cute jar and giving it to friends or family. Just include a note with the instructions for the recipient to add the milk and heat it up!
Make It a Party Beverage
Serve this hot chocolate at your next holiday gathering, birthday party, or cozy night with friends. It’s a great conversation starter, and people will love the fun twist on the classic hot cocoa.
Additional Tips
Adjust the Sweetness
If you like your hot chocolate sweeter, feel free to add a little extra sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. You can also use sweetened almond milk if you’re looking for an extra boost of sweetness.
Use a Non-Dairy Milk
If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based options, you can swap regular milk for almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly.
Make it Extra Decadent
For an extra indulgent treat, top your hot chocolate with crushed chocolate or red velvet cake crumbs, and drizzle some chocolate syrup over the whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
Leftovers
If you have leftover hot chocolate (which is highly unlikely!), you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove with a splash of milk and give it a good stir before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use something other than red velvet cake mix?
A1: Red velvet cake mix is key to achieving that red velvet flavor, but if you don’t have any, you could substitute with a small amount of cream cheese flavoring and a bit of red food coloring for the color.
Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A2: Yes! Simply use a non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and make sure the cake mix you use is dairy-free.
Q3: Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the hot chocolate ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and give it a good stir before serving.
Q4: Can I add more flavors to this hot chocolate?
A4: Absolutely! You can add a dash of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a splash of peppermint extract for a different twist.
Q5: Can I use a different sweetener?
A5: Sure! You can substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or even a sugar substitute like stevia.
Q6: How do I store leftover hot chocolate?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently when ready to enjoy.
Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: It can be! Just make sure to use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix, and you’re good to go.
Q8: Can I make this into an iced drink?
A8: Yes! You can chill the hot chocolate and pour it over ice for a refreshing twist on this creamy drink.
Q9: Can I make this without cake mix?
A9: While cake mix is key to the red velvet flavor, you can try making your own red velvet-flavored cocoa by using a mix of cocoa powder, vanilla, and a small amount of red food coloring.
Q10: How can I make this even more indulgent?
A10: Top it with extra whipped cream, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup for a truly decadent treat.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink with a twist! Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it’s a sweet indulgence that will quickly become your new go-to. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this delightful drink brings joy in every sip. Don’t wait—whip up a batch today and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this red velvet wonder!
Print
Red Velvet Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
This creamy, decadent Red Velvet Hot Chocolate is a festive twist on your classic hot cocoa! With rich chocolate flavor and a touch of red velvet cake essence, this cozy drink is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (or dairy-free milk of choice)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red velvet cake mix (or 1 tsp red food coloring and 1 tsp cake batter extract)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Red velvet cake crumbs (optional, for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s warm, but not boiling.
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Add the Cocoa and Sugar: Stir in the cocoa powder and sugar, whisking until dissolved and smooth.
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Add the Red Velvet Flavor: Stir in the red velvet cake mix (or red food coloring and cake batter extract) and mix until the color is well distributed.
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Melt the White Chocolate: Add the white chocolate chips and stir until completely melted and smooth, creating a rich, creamy texture.
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Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract and adjust the sweetness, if needed.
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Serve: Pour the red velvet hot chocolate into a mug and top with whipped cream.
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Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with red velvet cake crumbs, chocolate shavings, or festive sprinkles for a decorative touch.
Notes
- If you don’t have red velvet cake mix, you can use red food coloring and cake batter extract to replicate the flavor.
- You can substitute milk with a non-dairy option like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg