Starbucks White Hot Chocolate (Copycat)

Indulge in the sweet and creamy goodness of a Starbucks white hot chocolate copycat from home with this simple recipe. In a matter of minutes, you can recreate this iconic drink right in your kitchen.

Perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or if you're craving a soothing festive drink. The combination of white chocolate, vanilla, and nutmeg is something the whole family will love.

As the cooler weather sets in, there's nothing like a warm drink to satisfy your sweet tooth. Our white hot chocolate recipe is a delicious drink that wraps you in coziness.

Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 5 minutes, this copycat recipe will become a winter favorite. And if you love white chocolate, our Christmas crack chex mix is a winner that is covered in the good stuff!

Pair this creamy white hot chocolate with easy Christmas popcorn or our Christmas reindeer chex mix during your next movie marathon for the ultimate festive experience. If you're watching the Grinch, I recommend serving green Christmas drinks as well!

Why you'll love this recipe

• Ready in just 5 minutes, it's a quick and easy recipe the whole family will love.
• From movie nights and our Bethlehem dinner to Christmas parties, this easy drink is perfect for any festive occasion.
• You can adjust the sweetness to your liking.
• This dessert like drink hits the spot on a cold day.
• With many different ways to customize, you can make a version for everyone.

What you'll need for this Starbucks copycat recipe

• White chocolate chips - These provide a rich, creamy base. Use high quality chocolate chips for a smoother taste and texture.
• Milk - Any milk will work. Whole milk will give you extra creaminess while skim will lighten the drink. The choice is yours.
• Vanilla
• Nutmeg - Adds a subtle, natural flavor that complements the white chocolate. Feel free to omit.

Can I use regular chocolate chips?

While milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips will work, you'll just end up making regular hot chocolate. If you want to make a traditional hot chocolate beverage, try this festive hot cocoa bar recipe. 

How to make Starbucks white hot chocolate

Step 1: Heat

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat the milk, vanilla, and nutmeg until hot, but not boiling.

Step 2: Chocolate

Remove from heat and stir the chocolate chips into the hot milk until melted.

Step 3: Serve

Once fully melted, serve warm with whipped cream and extra nutmeg.

Pro tip: For an extra touch, use a frother to create a foamy layer on top of your hot chocolate.

Can I make a dairy free hot chocolate?

Yes, you can make a dairy free hot chocolate by using a plant based milk and vegan chocolate chips. Almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, soy milk, etc. will all work in place of regular milk. Do note, that the texture and taste might vary slightly depending on the type of milk you choose.

Variations

• Mocha - If you're a coffee drinker or need a little extra boost, feel free to brew a shot of espresso and stir it in for a white chocolate mocha.
• Peppermint - There's nothing better than a peppermint hot chocolate during the holiday season. Stir in candy canes or add a few drops of peppermint extract for some Christmas cheer.
• Cinnamon - Add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the milk as it warms up for a subtle warmth that takes this hot chocolate from good to great.
• Syrups and sauces - Experiment with raspberry simple syrup, vanilla syrup, white mocha syrup, white chocolate syrup or even peppermint syrup to add extra flavor.

What's the best way to store hot chocolate?

Store this  delicious white hot chocolate in an airtight container or mason jar in the fridge. It will stay good for 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in intervals in the microwave until desired temperature is reached.

More recipes you'll love

• If you're not a fan of hot drinks, this cranberry mocktail is the perfect drink for you. 
• This white chocolate Christmas crack is one of the best things during the holidays.
• I love serving a Christmas charcuterie board or a fall charcuterie board for an easy appetizer.
• This pancake spaghetti recipe is the perfect recipe to get the kids involved in.