Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups high-quality white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
- 3-4 drops green gel food coloring
- Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- Red and green holiday sprinkles
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (ensure agar agar-free/halal if required)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for the true elf experience)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium-low heat. Allow it to warm up gently until steam begins to rise, but do not let it come to a rolling boil.
- Stir in the white chocolate chips continuously with a whisk until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety.
- Remove the pan from the heat slightly and stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract (if using). Add the green gel food coloring one drop at a time, whisking vigorously, until you reach a vibrant 'elf green' color.
- Return to low heat for another minute to ensure everything is fully incorporated and hot.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
- Top generously with a mountain of whipped cream. Garnish immediately with crushed candy canes, holiday sprinkles, and mini marshmallows. Drizzle with a little maple syrup if you want to eat like a real elf.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with oat milk or coconut milk, and use vegan white chocolate. Gel food coloring works best as it won’t water down the chocolate. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 65mg