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This creamy peanut butter hot chocolate is pure winter comfort, perfect for chilling out after a long day. Grab some basic ingredients and stir things up—you’ll end up with a smooth, nutty cup that leaves regular cocoa in the dust.
I first tried mixing these flavors one freezing evening and it quickly became a tradition when we hang out and watch movies.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter: brings that familiar nutty flavor and velvety texture. Regular store brands melt down best—skip the natural ones if you want things super smooth.
- Milk: creates a thick, rich base. Go with whole for the dreamiest result, but honestly, anything cold and fresh will do.
- Water: mixes with cocoa to bring out that deep chocolatey taste.
- Cocoa powder: is the real hero for chocolate punch. Dutch process is a smoother pick if you want mellow vibes.
- Granulated sugar: balances everything with just enough sweetness. Fine sugar melts right in, so it’s worth finding.
- Whipped cream and peanut butter sauce: these are totally extra, but take your drink to dessert status. Homemade whipped cream on top is a game changer when you can.
Detailed Steps
- Pour and Dress Up:
- Fill up your favorite eight-ounce mug with the hot chocolate once it’s steamy (not bubbling). If you go fancy, add a pile of whipped cream and a stripe of melted peanut butter on top for serious coffee shop style.
- Mix in Milk and Peanut Butter:
- Slowly add in the milk, then drop in a spoonful of peanut butter. Keep heating on medium, stirring along, until the peanut butter completely melts in and your drink’s steamy with awesome smell all around.
- Start With the Basics:
- Stir up the water, cocoa powder, and sugar together in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk or use a sturdy spoon until it all turns glossy and thick—no lumpy cocoa hiding out.
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Good to Know
- This drink always feels super cozy, way fancier than plain old hot chocolate.
- Change it up with any milk or add extra toppings if you like.
- Makes exactly one mug, made for solo chill nights.
The best moment is when the peanut butter swirls into the chocolate. My daughter was all smiles the first time she tried making it—she couldn’t wait to pass around her melt-y masterpiece.
How to Store
Tastes best freshly made, but you can stash leftovers covered in the fridge for about a day. Heat it up again on the stove, stirring to get it nice and smooth. If it’s too thick, a splash of milk makes it perfect again.
Ingredient swaps
For a dairy-free twist, use your favorite plant milk. Oat milk works especially well and blends like a dream. Can’t do peanuts? Try sunflower seed butter, but go for the creamy kind or it won’t mix in smoothly.
Fun Ways to Serve
Go all out and add mini marshmallows, a pinch of cinnamon, or even some chopped roasted peanuts. Want a grownup spin? A dash of cayenne or cinnamon takes it up a notch.
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FAQs About the Recipe
- → Will natural peanut butter work for this cocoa?
Stick with classic creamy peanut butter for the smoothest sip—natural types can get oily or turn grainy.
- → Is there a way to make this drink with no dairy?
Totally! Just swap the milk with your usual plant milk—almond, soy, oat, whatever you like. Go for dairy-free toppings too if you want.
- → How do I whip up this cocoa using a microwave?
Pop cocoa powder, sugar, and water into a mug, microwave for a few seconds, stir in the peanut butter next, then pour in your milk. Heat again until nice and hot, stir everything, and it’s ready.
- → What's the top cocoa powder for this treat?
Go for unsweetened natural cocoa or Dutch cocoa—either one blends smoothly and tastes super chocolatey.
- → Can I jazz up this drink with toppings?
Of course! A swirl of whipped cream or a spoon of peanut butter sauce makes it extra good, but it’s tasty even plain.