There’s nothing quite like the indulgent blend of rich chocolate, velvety caramel, and a hint of sea salt in this Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. In just 10 minutes, you can recreate this cozy café favorite at home, with its luscious, creamy texture and perfectly balanced sweet-salty flavors. It’s the ultimate treat to warm your soul on chilly days or to satisfy your dessert cravings in a snap.
Every sip is a symphony of smooth, melted chocolate, buttery caramel, and a touch of salt that enhances the sweetness. With 9g of protein and a comforting dose of calcium, it’s a decadent yet nourishing way to treat yourself. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, this drink is pure bliss in a mug.
Ingredients for Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
- ¼ cup cocoa (unsweetened, for rich chocolate flavor)
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste or substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 4 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess, but any milk works)
- ½ cup water (to help dissolve cocoa and sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (fine or flaky, for that signature salted caramel taste)
- 2 Tablespoons Hazelnut Syrup (optional, but adds a nutty depth; substitute with vanilla syrup if unavailable)
- 3 Tablespoons caramel sauce (plus extra for topping; store-bought or homemade works)
- Whipped cream (for topping; homemade or canned is fine)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine cocoa, sugar, and water: In a medium pot over medium heat, mix ¼ cup cocoa, ½ cup sugar, and ½ cup water. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Add milk, vanilla, and salt: Pour in 4 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon sea salt. Heat the mixture until warm (do not boil), stirring occasionally to combine.
- Mix in hazelnut and caramel sauce: Stir in 2 Tablespoons of hazelnut syrup and 3 Tablespoons of caramel sauce until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect finish.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the rich, creamy, and slightly salty flavor of your homemade Starbucks-style salted caramel hot chocolate!
Perfect Pairings: Toppings and Sauces
Elevate your Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with creative toppings! Try adding a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce for a richer flavor or a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. For a festive twist, top with mini marshmallows or a dusting of cinnamon. Don’t forget the whipped cream—it’s a must for that creamy, indulgent finish!
Serve It Right: Presentation Tips
Serve your hot chocolate in clear mugs to showcase the layers of caramel and whipped cream. Add a caramel drizzle on the inside of the mug before pouring in the hot chocolate for a professional touch. Pair it with a shortbread cookie or a slice of banana bread for a cozy, café-style experience at home.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Customize this recipe to suit your taste! Swap the hazelnut syrup for almond or vanilla syrup for a different flavor profile. If you’re dairy-free, use oat milk or almond milk instead of regular milk. For a boozy twist, add a splash of Baileys or bourbon to your mug for an adult version of this classic treat.
Quick Tips for Busy Days
Short on time? Use pre-made caramel sauce and store-bought whipped cream to speed things up. You can also prepare the cocoa and sugar mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container. When ready, simply heat it with milk and add your toppings—easy and delicious!
Storing and Reheating Your Hot Chocolate
Leftover hot chocolate? Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the smooth texture. Add a splash of fresh milk if it thickens too much. Top with fresh whipped cream and caramel before serving again.
Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cocoa
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 Tablespoons Hazelnut Syrup
- 3 Tablespoons caramel sauce + extra for topping
- whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- In a pot over medium heat, mix sugar, cocoa, and water and bring to a boil.
- Add in milk, vanilla, and salt and heat until warm.
- Mix in Hazelnut and Caramel sauce.
- Serve topped with whipped cream, caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Enjoy.