Disneyland’s Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
Experience the magic of Disneyland at home with this rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe. It’s perfectly indulgent and topped with whipped cream and cinnamon for that classic cozy treat. Ideal for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a sweet, comforting drink.

Ingredients
- 2–3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup high-quality cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1–2 tbsp grated milk chocolate
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅛ tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium until the mixture is steaming with small bubbles forming at the edges, but do not let it boil.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and grated milk chocolate. Add ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to the bowl and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Step 3: Pour the cocoa mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3–5 minutes, whisking often. The hot chocolate should thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more milk.
- Step 5: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra indulgent version, add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Try using almond or oat milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative, though the texture will be lighter.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or a few drops of peppermint extract to the hot chocolate for a festive twist.
- Use bittersweet or dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate if you prefer a richer, less sweet drink.
Storage
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, whisking frequently to restore smoothness. Avoid boiling when reheating to maintain the best texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this hot chocolate vegan?
You can make a vegan version by substituting the whole milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut or almond milk. Use a vegan sweetened condensed milk or sweeten with maple syrup or agave instead.
Why is it important not to boil the milk?
Boiling milk can cause it to scorch or develop an unpleasant taste and texture. Heating it until steaming with bubbles at the edges ensures the milk blends smoothly with the cocoa and chocolate without burning.
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Disneyland’s Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Disneyland Hot Chocolate recipe recreates the rich, creamy, and indulgent hot chocolate famously served at Disney parks. Made with a blend of whole milk, heavy cream, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, milk chocolate, and sweetened condensed milk, it offers a decadently smooth texture topped with whipped cream, cinnamon, and optional chocolate shavings for the perfect cozy drink experience.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2–3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup high-quality cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1–2 tbsp grated milk chocolate
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅛ tsp vanilla extract
Topping and Serving
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is steaming and small bubbles form around the edges, being careful not to bring it to a boil.
- Mix Cocoa and Chocolate: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and grated milk chocolate. Add ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to this bowl and whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the cocoa and chocolate mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly to combine evenly. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the hot chocolate simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. Whisk often during this time until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. If the hot chocolate is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with whipped cream. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and add chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately to best enjoy the authentic Disneyland hot chocolate experience.
Notes
- Do not boil the milk and cream as it can cause curdling and affect the flavor.
- Use high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa and milk chocolate for the best taste and color.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your preference.
- For a richer drink, use the full 3 cups of milk and the full 2 tablespoons of grated chocolate.
- Chocolate shavings are optional but add an extra chocolatey touch and decorative flair.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Disneyland hot chocolate, hot chocolate recipe, creamy hot chocolate, Disney drink recipes, warm winter drinks

