Silky white chocolate, bright orange zest and a hint of almond make this the dressiest mug of cocoa I know.
Prep5 min
Cook10 min
Total15 min
Serves2
LevelEasy
What makes it special
Milk
White chocolate
Sugar
Regular hot chocolate is my everyday comfort, but this one comes out when I want something a little special. White chocolate makes a mellow, creamy base, and fresh orange zest and a drop of almond turn it into something that tastes like a holiday dessert.
Why it works
White chocolate is sweet and mild, with no bitterness, so it's the perfect canvas for other flavors. Orange zest brings fragrant citrus oils, and almond adds a warm, marzipan-like note. Together they're cozy without being heavy.
My tips
Buy decent white chocolate. The cheaper kinds melt into a waxy, grainy drink.
Low heat, always. Steaming, never boiling.
Zest straight into the pot so all the oils land in the milk.
Go easy on the almond. A drop is enough.
Easy twists
Spiced: add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom.
Extra rich: finish with a splash of heavy cream.
Dairy-free: almond milk and dairy-free white chocolate.
Serving ideas
I like it in small cups with a curl of orange peel on top and a plate of shortbread or biscotti on the side. It also makes a lovely dessert drink at the end of a dinner party.
Leftovers keep for 2 days in the fridge. Rewarm gently and whisk well.
Creamy white hot chocolate with fresh orange zest, a drop of almond and vanilla. A cozy, elegant mug for cold evenings.
Drinks Easy American
Prep
5 min
Cook
10 min
Total
15 min
Servings
2
Ingredients 6 items
Tap to check off as you go
Instructions 4 steps
1
Warm the milk gently in a saucepan until it steams.
2
Whisk in the chopped white chocolate until completely smooth.
3
Stir in the orange zest, almond extract and vanilla.
4
Taste, sweeten if needed, and pour into warm mugs.
Nutrition per serving
Calories
340
Protein
8g
Carbs
34g
Fat
18g
Sugar
30g
Fiber
1g
Sodium
120mg
Questions, answered
Can I use white chocolate chips?
Yes, but a good white chocolate bar melts more smoothly. Chop it finely before whisking it in.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use almond or coconut milk and a dairy-free white chocolate.
How much almond extract should I add?
Just a drop or two. It's strong and can easily overpower the orange.
Recipe by
Denise
Home cook, baker and serial recipe tweaker. I share the dishes my family asks for most, written step by step so they turn out right in your kitchen too.
