I’m so excited to share this Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe with you because it’s one of those cozy drinks that just feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. What makes it truly special is the rich, velvety chocolate combined with the nutty, salty kick from the peanut butter and sea salt—a flavor combo that’s both comforting and delightfully unexpected. Whether you’re curling up for a quiet night in or need a delicious treat to impress friends, this recipe hits all the right notes.
When I first tried this Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe, I was blown away by how easy it was to whip up something that tasted so indulgent yet felt homemade and wholesome. You’ll find that it’s perfect for sharing, and I love how the creamy texture and balanced sweetness make every sip utterly satisfying. Plus, the touch of sea salt really amps up the peanut butter, making this an irresistible winter favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of flavors: The combo of salty peanut butter and rich chocolate creates a crave-worthy twist on classic hot cocoa.
- Creamy texture: Using milk and cream—plus peanut butter—gives it that luscious, velvety mouthfeel you just won’t find in store-bought mixes.
- Easy to make: It takes just about 30 minutes with simple steps—no fancy equipment needed.
- Customizable to your preferences: You can tweak the sweetness, switch up dairy or non-dairy, and top it however you like.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe plays a key role—from the dark chocolate’s depth to the flaked sea salt’s punch. Choosing good-quality ingredients makes a big difference, so look for a rich cocoa powder and high-quality peanut butter to get the best flavor.
- Water: Helps dissolve cocoa and sugar evenly; keeps the drink from getting too thick.
- Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle tropical note.
- Half and half or heavy cream: Adds luscious richness; swapping with coconut cream makes it friendly for dairy-free diets.
- Sugar: Balances the bitterness of dark chocolate and cocoa powder—feel free to adjust to your sweetness preference.
- Cocoa powder: Use unsweetened for that true chocolate boost without extra sugar.
- Dark chocolate (chopped): Quality counts here; the darker and richer, the better the depth of flavor.
- Peanut butter: Creamy and smooth types melt into the drink easily; crunchy could work if you want texture, but I prefer creamy for smoothness.
- Flaked sea salt: A little sprinkle enhances all the flavors and adds a delightful salty contrast.
- Mini marshmallows: Classic hot chocolate topper that adds a fun, sweet finish.
- Heavy cream and creamy peanut butter (for whipped cream): Combining these makes a dreamy peanut butter whipped cream topping that takes this drink over the top.
Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations
This recipe really invites personalization, and I often switch it up depending on my mood or who I’m serving. Playing around with milk choices or toppings will keep it exciting and perfect for whatever occasion you’re enjoying it.
- Dairy-free twist: Using coconut milk and coconut cream gives this a slightly tropical flair that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
- Extra nutty: Stir in a teaspoon of peanut butter powder atop the whipped cream for an intense peanut flavor that peanut butter lovers will adore.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon when melting the chocolate for subtle warmth and complexity.
- Less sweet: Reduce sugar by half if you prefer a more bittersweet hot chocolate experience.
How to Make Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Warm Up the Liquids
Start by combining the water, milk, and half and half (or cream) in a saucepan over low heat. You want this gently warmed—not boiling—with tiny bubbles forming around the edges. This slow warming helps the sugar and cocoa dissolve evenly without scorching the milk.
Step 2: Blend in Cocoa Powder and Sugar
Whisk in the sugar and cocoa powder until they completely dissolve into the warm liquids. Taking your time here really pays off—the goal is a smooth base free of lumps, so keep whisking gently but thoroughly.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter
Add the chopped dark chocolate and peanut butter to the saucepan. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to help everything melt evenly and combine into a glossy, thick mixture. Keep the heat low to avoid burning or separating the fats.
Step 4: Add Flaked Sea Salt and Serve
Once everything is fully smooth and melted, stir in the flaked sea salt gently. This little salty surprise enhances the richness and lifts the flavors beautifully. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, then top with a generous swirl of peanut butter whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and an extra sprinkle of sea salt to finish it off.
Pro Tips for Making Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Low and Slow Heating: Be patient warming the milk and water slowly to avoid scorching and to dissolve sugars properly.
- Quality Chocolate Matters: Using good dark chocolate really upgrades this drink from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk the cocoa and sugar well to prevent lumps—this trick yields a smoother, richer cocoa base.
- Salt Last: Adding flaked sea salt at the end preserves its texture and flavor punch—don’t stir it in too early.
How to Serve Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping mine with mini marshmallows for that nostalgic touch, plus a big dollop of peanut butter whipped cream for extra decadence. Then I sprinkle a little extra flaked sea salt right on top—that finishing touch really makes the flavor pop and adds a super satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
For pairing, my family goes crazy for peanut butter cookies or simple salted pretzels to nibble alongside. The saltiness in these treats complements the hot chocolate perfectly and keeps things fun and flavorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like serving this in clear glass mugs so the layers of whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate are visible—it’s such a pretty presentation. You could also rim the glass with crushed peanuts or even a bit of melted peanut butter and sugar for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover hot chocolate (which doesn’t happen often in my house!), pour it into an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 2 days, but you’ll want to reheat gently to keep the creamy texture intact.
Freezing
I haven’t frozen this hot chocolate before because we usually drink it all up, but if you want to, freeze it in small portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to avoid separating the fats.
Reheating
Reheat the hot chocolate over low heat on the stove, whisking occasionally to restore that smooth and creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at full power—it tends to make the milk separate or scald.
FAQs
-
Can I make this Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the milk and cream for coconut milk and coconut cream or any other plant-based alternatives. Make sure your peanut butter and chocolate are also vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free version.
-
What kind of peanut butter works best?
I prefer creamy peanut butter because it melts smoothly into the hot chocolate. Natural or no-stir types work great as long as they don’t have added sugars or oils that separate easily.
-
How salty should the sea salt be?
Use flaked sea salt for its light texture and mild saltiness—it compliments without overpowering. You only need a small amount, just enough to enhance the sweetness and the peanut butter’s richness.
-
Can I prepare this ahead for a party?
You can prepare the hot chocolate base ahead and gently reheat when ready. Just hold off on adding whipped cream and marshmallows until serving to keep everything fresh and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, especially during cooler months when I want something a little special to cozy up with. I love how approachable it is and the way it adds a fun, gourmet twist to traditional hot chocolate. Trust me—you’ll want to keep these ingredients on hand for whenever the craving strikes. So go on, whip up a mug (or two), and enjoy every last sip like you’re wrapping yourself in peanut buttery, chocolatey comfort.
PrintSalted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate Recipe
Indulge in a rich and creamy Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate, a decadent twist on the classic winter favorite. This recipe combines the smoothness of dark chocolate with the nutty flavor of peanut butter and a hint of sea salt, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Finished with a luscious peanut butter whipped cream and a sprinkle of flaked sea salt, this cozy beverage is perfect for warming up on chilly days and impressing guests with its unique flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 people
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups milk (whole or coconut milk for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup half and half or heavy cream or coconut milk/cream (for dairy free option)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 teaspoon flaked sea salt, plus more for topping
Toppings
- Mini marshmallows, for serving
Peanut Butter Whipped Cream
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Heat the Liquid Base: Place the water, milk, and cream in a saucepan over low heat. Warm gently until bubbles appear around the edges, but do not bring to a boil.
- Dissolve Sugar and Cocoa: Whisk in the sugar and cocoa powder until fully dissolved to create a smooth chocolate base.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: Add the chopped dark chocolate and peanut butter to the saucepan. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon over low heat until both are completely melted and incorporated.
- Add Sea Salt: Stir in ¼ teaspoon flaked sea salt to enhance the flavors with a subtle salty contrast.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the creamy peanut butter until fully combined and fluffy.
- Assemble and Serve: Divide the hot chocolate evenly between mugs. Top each serving with a generous dollop of peanut butter whipped cream and a handful of mini marshmallows. Finish with a sprinkle of flaked sea salt for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) for the best depth of flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute all dairy milk and cream with coconut milk and coconut cream respectively.
- Adjust the sugar amount according to your sweetness preference.
- Whipped cream can be sweetened slightly if desired, but the peanut butter adds richness.
- Serve immediately as this hot chocolate is best enjoyed warm and fresh.
