Name: Orange Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred, or any milk of choice); ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness); 2 oz dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1–2 tbsp sugar or honey, to taste; 1 tsp orange zest; ¼ tsp orange extract or 1 tbsp fresh orange juice; Pinch of salt; Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional, for topping); Extra orange zest or chocolate shavings (for garnish)

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Orange Hot Chocolate is a warm, cozy drink that’s both comforting and refreshing — the perfect mix of rich cocoa and bright citrus. I love how the deep, velvety chocolate blends with the zesty flavor of orange to create a drink that feels luxurious but still easy to make. Whether I’m curled up on the couch or hosting a winter get-together, this is one drink that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this version of hot chocolate because it takes a classic favorite and adds a surprising twist. The orange flavor cuts through the richness of the chocolate, making each sip feel balanced and indulgent without being too heavy. It’s easy to customize, comes together in minutes, and tastes like something I’d order from a fancy café — but I make it right in my kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Milk (whole milk works best, but any milk will do)
Heavy cream (optional, for added richness)
Dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate, chopped
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
Orange zest
Orange extract or a splash of fresh orange juice
Pinch of salt
Whipped cream or marshmallows (for topping, optional)
Extra orange zest or chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Directions

I combine the milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat and warm it until hot but not boiling.
I whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
I add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted and fully blended into the milk.
I stir in the orange zest and orange extract (or juice) and let the flavors infuse for a minute or two.
I taste and adjust the sweetness or orange flavor if needed.
I pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of orange zest and chocolate curls.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 and takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook — so I have a comforting treat ready in 15 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of nutmeg for a spiced version. I’ve also made it with milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter, creamier drink. If I want something dairy-free, I use oat milk or almond milk and skip the cream. For a grown-up twist, I’ve added a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier — it’s decadent and festive.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. I don’t let it boil so the milk doesn’t scald.

FAQs

Can I use orange juice instead of orange extract?

Yes, I often use a splash of fresh orange juice if I don’t have extract — just enough to add flavor without watering down the drink.

What type of chocolate works best?

I like using a good-quality dark or semisweet chocolate bar, but chocolate chips work in a pinch too. The better the chocolate, the richer the drink.

Is this recipe too sweet?

Not at all — I adjust the sugar depending on the chocolate I use. If I’m using a sweeter chocolate, I reduce the sugar slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I make the hot chocolate in advance and reheat it gently when I’m ready to serve. I wait to add toppings until just before serving.

What’s the best garnish for this?

Whipped cream with a bit of orange zest or chocolate curls is my go-to. I’ve also topped it with mini marshmallows and a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra treat.

Conclusion

Orange Hot Chocolate is a cozy, uplifting drink that brings a little extra sunshine to chilly days. I love how it blends the richness of cocoa with the brightness of citrus in a way that feels comforting but never boring. Whether I’m sharing it with guests or enjoying a quiet moment to myself, this drink always delivers a little bit of luxury in every sip.