Nutella Hot Chocolate Made Easy With Just Two Ingredients

By:

Sage Martinez

Published:

August 1, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Nutella Hot Chocolate

There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of rich, chocolatey goodness on a cold day. This nutella hot chocolate recipe is about to become your go-to comfort drink for countless reasons. Let me share why you’ll fall in love with this simple yet indulgent beverage:

Ease of preparation: This incredibly simple recipe comes together in just 5-6 minutes from start to finish. With only one minute of prep time and minimal cooking, you can whip up two mugs of decadent hot chocolate even on your busiest days. No special equipment or techniques required!
Health benefits: While certainly a treat, this nutella hot chocolate offers some nutritional perks. Each serving provides 13g of protein, 704mg of potassium, and 450mg of calcium. The hazelnuts in the cocoa spread contribute healthy fats and provide a satisfying richness that means you won’t need as large a portion to feel content.
Versatility: This recipe easily adapts to various dietary preferences. You can use dairy or plant-based milks, adjust sweetness levels, and customize toppings to suit different needs. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply watching your sugar intake, you can modify this nutella hot chocolate to fit your lifestyle.
Distinctive flavor: Unlike regular hot chocolate, this version features the unique combination of chocolate and hazelnuts that creates an incredibly smooth, nutty, and deeply satisfying taste experience. The addition of sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor while balancing the sweetness perfectly.

“This wonderfully nostalgic drink brings back childhood memories while satisfying adult cravings for something truly special.”

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Hot Chocolate
Essential Ingredients for Nutella Hot Chocolate
Main Ingredients
Optional Toppings
Special Dietary Options
How to Prepare the Perfect Nutella Hot Chocolate: Step-by-Step Guide
First Step: Prepare Your Milk
Second Step: Add the Key Ingredients
Third Step: Whisk Until Smooth
Fourth Step: Remove From Heat at the Right Time
Final Step: Serve and Garnish
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Nutella Hot Chocolate
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
Mastering Nutella Hot Chocolate: Advanced Tips and Variations
Pro Cooking Techniques
Flavor Variations
Presentation Tips
Make-Ahead Options
How to Store Nutella Hot Chocolate: Best Practices
Refrigeration
Freezing
Reheating
Meal Prep Considerations
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Nutella Hot Chocolate
How do I make Nutella hot chocolate at home?
Can I use dairy-free milk to make Nutella hot chocolate?
Is Nutella hot chocolate healthier than regular hot chocolate?
What toppings go well with Nutella hot chocolate?
How long can I store leftover Nutella hot chocolate?
nutella hot chocolate
Ingredients
Instructions
Last Step:
Notes
Nutrition
Did you make this recipe?

Essential Ingredients for Nutella Hot Chocolate

The beauty of this nutella hot chocolate lies in its simplicity. You only need a few basic ingredients to create this luxurious drink. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

4 cups plain milk (dairy or plant-based) – Creates the creamy base for your hot chocolate; dairy milk provides richer texture while plant-based alternatives offer different flavor profiles
1/2 cup hazelnut cocoa spread – Delivers the signature chocolate-hazelnut flavor and creamy texture that makes this drink special
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness without making the drink taste salty

Optional Toppings

Marshmallows – Adds classic sweetness and a delightful melted topping
Whipped cream – Provides extra creaminess and a luxurious finish
Chocolate shavings – Creates an elegant garnish and adds more chocolate intensity
Chocolate chips – Offers bursts of chocolate throughout your drink
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice complexity that pairs beautifully with chocolate

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Use any plant-based milk such as oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk. Ensure your chosen hazelnut cocoa spread is certified vegan.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your hazelnut cocoa spread and any toppings are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe sensitivity.
Lower-sugar: Use unsweetened plant-based milk and reduce the amount of cocoa spread, adding a teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to maintain chocolate flavor.

How to Prepare the Perfect Nutella Hot Chocolate: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating the perfect cup of nutella hot chocolate is surprisingly simple. Follow these foolproof steps for a creamy, dreamy result every time:

First Step: Prepare Your Milk

Pour 4 cups of plain milk (dairy or plant-based) into a small saucepan. Place it over medium heat and allow it to warm gradually, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. Continue heating until the milk almost reaches a simmer. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles begin forming around the edges of the pan, but the milk is not yet actively boiling. This should take approximately 3-4 minutes.

Second Step: Add the Key Ingredients

Once your milk is properly heated, add 1/2 cup of hazelnut cocoa spread and 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the saucepan. This is where the magic happens! The cocoa spread will melt into the warm milk, creating that signature creamy chocolate flavor that makes nutella hot chocolate so irresistible.

Third Step: Whisk Until Smooth

Using a wire whisk, stir the mixture constantly until the cocoa spread is completely dissolved and fully combined with the milk. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly smooth texture without any lumps. Continue whisking for about 1-2 minutes, making sure to scrape the bottom and corners of the saucepan to prevent any cocoa spread from sticking.

Fourth Step: Remove From Heat at the Right Time

As soon as the ingredients are combined and the mixture is hot, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat source. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this can cause the milk to scorch or develop an undesirable skin on top. The residual heat will continue to warm the drink even after removing it from the stove.

Final Step: Serve and Garnish

Pour the hot chocolate into two cozy mugs, dividing it evenly. Now comes the fun part adding your favorite toppings! Garnish with marshmallows, a dollop of whipped cream, chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon according to your preference. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the comforting bliss of homemade nutella hot chocolate.

Preparation Time Overview
Prep Time>	Cook Time>	Total Time	Servings
1 minute	4-5 minutes	5-6 minutes	2 mugs

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Nutella Hot Chocolate

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you’re looking to boost the protein content of your nutella hot chocolate, consider stirring in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder after removing the mixture from heat. You can also blend in half a banana for natural sweetness and additional creaminess. For those watching their sugar intake, substitute regular cocoa spread with a sugar-free version and adjust sweeteners to taste.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

While not a traditional ingredient for hot chocolate, surprisingly, adding a tablespoon of pure pumpkin puree can create a seasonal autumn version with added nutrients and a velvety texture. For those who enjoy spice variations, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Mexican-inspired twist or cardamom for an exotic flavor profile. You might also incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to complement the hazelnut notes in your nutella hot chocolate.

Mastering Nutella Hot Chocolate: Advanced Tips and Variations

Ready to take your nutella hot chocolate to the next level? These expert tips and creative variations will help you become a true hot chocolate connoisseur:

Pro Cooking Techniques

For an ultra-creamy texture, try using a milk frother or immersion blender after combining all ingredients. This aerates the mixture, creating a restaurant-quality foam that elevates your hot chocolate experience. Another professional tip is to heat your mugs by filling them with hot water while preparing the drink, then emptying them before pouring in the hot chocolate. This keeps your drink warmer for longer.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with adding different extracts to create unique flavor profiles. Peppermint extract creates a festive holiday version, while orange extract brightens the chocolate flavor. For a coffee-inspired twist, stir in a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee. You could also create a salted caramel version by drizzling in caramel sauce and finishing with extra sea salt.

Presentation Tips

Presentation makes your nutella hot chocolate even more appealing. Try adding a swirl of extra cocoa spread on top before sprinkling with crushed hazelnuts. Using a milk frother to create artful foam designs will give your drink a café-quality appearance. For special occasions, rim the glass with melted chocolate and dip in cocoa powder or crushed hazelnuts for an impressive effect.

Make-Ahead Options

For entertaining purposes, you can prepare a larger batch of hot chocolate and keep it warm in a slow cooker on the lowest setting. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. You can also create instant hot chocolate packets by mixing cocoa powder, a small amount of powdered milk, and a tiny amount of cornstarch (for thickness) with a little cocoa spread portioned into containers. Guests can simply add hot water or milk when ready to enjoy. If you’re curious about other quick dessert ideas, check out this easy peach cobbler dump cake for another crowd-pleaser.

How to Store Nutella Hot Chocolate: Best Practices

Refrigeration

To store leftover nutella hot chocolate, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the mixture may separate and form a skin as it cools, but this can easily be remedied during reheating.

Freezing

For longer storage, pour cooled hot chocolate into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 1 month. For convenience, consider freezing portions in ice cube trays, then transferring to freezer bags for quick single servings.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy your stored nutella hot chocolate, gently reheat it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to recombine any separated ingredients. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through. Avoid boiling the mixture during reheating, as this can affect the texture and flavor.

Meal Prep Considerations

If you’re preparing hot chocolate for a gathering, consider setting up a self-serve station with pre-measured ingredients and various toppings. This allows guests to customize their drinks while you enjoy the party. For busy weekday mornings, preparing a batch the night before and reheating in the morning can provide a comforting start to your day.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Nutella Hot Chocolate

How do I make Nutella hot chocolate at home?

To make Nutella hot chocolate, heat 1 cup of milk on the stove or in the microwave until hot but not boiling. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Nutella until fully melted and combined. For a richer taste, add a splash of heavy cream or vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture for a smooth texture, then pour into a mug. You can top it with whipped cream or marshmallows for extra indulgence. This simple recipe makes a cozy drink in under 10 minutes.

Can I use dairy-free milk to make Nutella hot chocolate?

Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk to make Nutella hot chocolate. These plant-based milks heat well and complement Nutella’s flavors nicely. Just warm 1 cup of your chosen milk and stir in 2 tablespoons of Nutella until smooth. Keep in mind that some dairy-free milks are thinner than cow’s milk, so the drink might be lighter in texture. Adjust the Nutella amount to your preferred sweetness if needed.

Is Nutella hot chocolate healthier than regular hot chocolate?

Nutella hot chocolate can be richer in flavor but may also have more fat and sugar compared to traditional hot chocolate mixes, depending on the recipe. Nutella contains hazelnuts, which add healthy fats and some vitamins, but it also has added sugars and oils. For a healthier version, try using less Nutella or choosing a hot chocolate powder with lower sugar content. Moderation is key to enjoying this treat as part of a balanced diet.

What toppings go well with Nutella hot chocolate?

Popular toppings for Nutella hot chocolate include whipped cream, marshmallows, a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon, and crushed hazelnuts for added texture. Drizzling a little extra Nutella on top can create a decorative swirl that tastes great. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness or a few chocolate shavings for a gourmet touch. These toppings make your drink visually appealing and add extra flavor layers.

How long can I store leftover Nutella hot chocolate?

Leftover Nutella hot chocolate should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days for the best taste and safety. Before drinking, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to recombine the ingredients. Avoid boiling, as overheating can alter the flavor and texture. For convenience, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but storing leftovers properly helps reduce waste.