This Hot Cocoa Dip is a creamy, fluffy dessert dip that tastes just like a mug of rich, sweet hot chocolate—only cooler, smoother, and perfect for sharing. I love whipping this up when I need a quick no-bake treat that brings all the cozy vibes without turning on the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and fun this dip is to make. It’s light, sweet, and full of that nostalgic hot cocoa flavor. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for parties, holidays, or even just a cozy night in. I usually serve it with cookies, fruit, or graham crackers—and it disappears fast every time.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip, thawed)
- Marshmallow fluff or marshmallow creme
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Hot cocoa mix (store-bought or homemade)
- Mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Chocolate chips or shavings (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- I start by beating the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- I add the marshmallow fluff and hot cocoa mix, and continue mixing until fully combined.
- I gently fold in the whipped topping until the dip is light and fluffy.
- I transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top it with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips or shavings if I want an extra festive look.
- I chill the dip for 30 minutes before serving, or serve it right away if I’m in a hurry.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2½ cups of dip, which serves 6–8 people as a sweet snack or dessert. It takes around 10 minutes to prepare and doesn’t require any cooking—just mix and serve.
Variations
Sometimes I add a splash of vanilla extract or peppermint extract for a fun twist. If I want it even more chocolatey, I stir in a spoonful of cocoa powder or melted chocolate. I’ve also topped it with crushed peppermint candies or sprinkles during the holidays for an extra festive touch.
storage/reheating
I store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold or at room temperature, and it doesn’t need to be reheated. If it starts to deflate a bit, I just give it a quick stir to bring back the fluffiness.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, I often make it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. I just wait to add the toppings until right before serving to keep them fresh.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
I can! I just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and gently fold it in so the dip stays fluffy.
What should I serve with hot cocoa dip?
I like to serve it with graham crackers, pretzels, vanilla wafers, strawberries, or marshmallows. Anything that pairs well with chocolate works beautifully.
Does the dip taste like actual hot cocoa?
Yes, it really does! The hot cocoa mix gives it that classic sweet chocolate flavor, and the marshmallow fluff adds that soft, gooey texture reminiscent of melted marshmallows.
Can I make it dairy-free?
I can use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives. Just be sure the hot cocoa mix is also dairy-free or use cocoa powder with sugar to replace it.
Conclusion
This Hot Cocoa Dip is everything I love about hot chocolate, transformed into a sweet, shareable dip. It’s light, creamy, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for holiday gatherings, winter parties, or any time I want a quick dessert that brings a little joy to the table.
PrintHot Cocoa Dip
A fluffy, creamy dessert dip that tastes just like hot cocoa—sweet, chocolatey, and perfect for dipping cookies, fruit, or graham crackers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2.5 cups (serves 6–8)
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff or marshmallow creme
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup hot cocoa mix
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (for topping)
- 2 tbsp chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add marshmallow fluff and hot cocoa mix; mix until fully combined.
- Fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and top with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips or shavings.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving or serve immediately.
Notes
- Add vanilla or peppermint extract for extra flavor.
- Stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a richer chocolate taste.
- Top with crushed peppermint or sprinkles for holidays.
- Serve with graham crackers, fruit, cookies, or pretzels.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
