Name: Frozen Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (bars or chips); 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice); 3 cups ice cubes; Whipped cream, for topping; Chocolate shavings or sprinkles, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the nostalgia of hot chocolate with the refreshing chill of a milkshake. It’s quick and easy to make with simple ingredients, requires no fancy equipment beyond a blender, and can be customized with your favorite chocolate. Whether you serve it as a dessert or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, Frozen Hot Chocolate is always a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Semi-sweet chocolate (bars or chips)
Hot cocoa mix
Granulated sugar
Whole milk (or milk of choice)
Ice cubes
Whipped cream (for topping)
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (for garnish)

Directions

Melt the semi-sweet chocolate until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
In a blender, combine melted chocolate, hot cocoa mix, sugar, milk, and ice cubes. Blend until smooth and frothy.
Pour into tall glasses.
Top with whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles.
Serve immediately with a straw or spoon.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and no chilling or cooking time is required beyond melting the chocolate.

Variations

Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.
Add a spoonful of peanut butter or Nutella for a richer twist.
Make it dairy-free by using almond, oat, or coconut milk and dairy-free whipped topping.
Add a dash of cinnamon or peppermint extract for a seasonal variation.
Turn it into an adult drink with a splash of Irish cream or coffee liqueur.

Storage/Reheating

Frozen Hot Chocolate is best enjoyed immediately after blending. If you have leftovers, store them in the freezer for up to 1 hour, then re-blend with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. This recipe is not suitable for reheating since it is served cold.

FAQs

Can I make Frozen Hot Chocolate without a blender?

You can whisk the ingredients with crushed ice, but a blender gives the smoothest texture.

Can I use pre-made hot chocolate instead of cocoa mix?

Yes, but reduce the added sugar since pre-made mixes are already sweetened.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet chocolate is ideal, but milk or dark chocolate can also be used.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, just swap in plant-based milk and a non-dairy whipped topping.

Is this the same as a chocolate milkshake?

Not exactly—Frozen Hot Chocolate is lighter and made with cocoa and melted chocolate instead of ice cream.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can freeze and re-blend if needed.

How do I make it thicker?

Add more ice or reduce the amount of milk.

Can I add coffee to it?

Yes, adding a shot of espresso makes a delicious mocha version.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Yes, use sugar-free cocoa mix, stevia or another sweetener, and sugar-free chocolate.

How do I get the best whipped topping?

Use chilled heavy cream whipped with a little sugar and vanilla for a homemade topping.

Conclusion

Frozen Hot Chocolate is a fun, refreshing drink that transforms a cozy classic into a frosty treat. With its creamy chocolate flavor and icy texture, it’s perfect for warm weather or whenever you want something indulgent yet cooling. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for chocolate lovers of all ages.