If you’ve ever wished to cozy up with the childhood nostalgia of campfire s’mores in a beautifully warm drink, this S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe will be your new best friend. It combines the rich, velvety texture of homemade hot chocolate with the fluffy sweetness of toasted meringue and the classic crunch of graham crackers. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a hug in a mug, this recipe captures all the magic of s’mores without the need for an open flame outside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting this indulgent treat. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures — from the creamy chocolate base to the airy meringue topping. Simple yet essential, these ingredients come together to create a decadent experience.
- 2 large egg whites: These create the fluffy meringue that mimics toasted marshmallows so perfectly.
- 75 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the meringue while helping achieve that perfect stiff peak texture.
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional): Adds stability to the egg whites, ensuring a glossy, firm meringue.
- 470 g milk: Forms the creamy hot chocolate base, balancing richness and lightness.
- 230 g whipping cream or heavy cream: Enhances the drink’s silkiness and adds luxurious body.
- 150 g dark chocolate (finely chopped): Provides deep chocolate flavor with the right bittersweet note to offset sweetness.
- Graham crackers: Essential for garnish and perfect for dipping to recreate that beloved s’mores crunch.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meringue
Begin by creating the fluffy meringue topping that is the signature of this drink. Set up a double boiler by bringing about an inch of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Place egg whites and sugar in a heat-safe bowl that fits securely on top of the saucepan without touching the water. Stir continuously as the sugar dissolves into the egg whites—this should take around 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when rubbing a bit between your fingers feels smooth and grain-free.
Step 2: Whip to Stiff Peaks
After your sugar mixture is warmed and silky, remove the bowl carefully from heat, avoiding water drips. Add cream of tartar for added stability if you want, then take out your hand mixer. Beat the mixture on medium-high speed for 5 to 7 minutes until it forms stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape. Your meringue is now ready to be shaped into that beautiful toasted topping.
Step 3: Heat the Cream and Milk
While whipping your meringue, start warming the base of your hot chocolate. Pour milk and whipping cream into a saucepan, cover, and heat over medium until it simmers gently. A warm, creamy base is crucial to melt the chocolate evenly and create that luscious texture you crave.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Once your milk mixture is hot, add in the finely chopped dark chocolate. Let it rest for about a minute to soften before stirring until it’s fully melted and smooth. This melty, bittersweet chocolate layer is what elevates this beverage from simple hot chocolate to a gourmet treat.
Step 5: Assemble and Toast
Transfer your stiff meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip or just trim the end of a plastic bag. Pipe or spoon the meringue generously around the rim of your mugs. Using a kitchen blowtorch, carefully toast the meringue until golden brown, channeling that perfect campfire glow. Finally, pour the hot chocolate inside the mug, garnish with graham crackers around the side, and serve immediately for a sensory delight.
How to Serve S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
The classic crunch of graham crackers isn’t just for dipping; break a few pieces and scatter them over the meringue to add texture and a nostalgic touch. You can also sprinkle a tiny pinch of cocoa powder or mini marshmallows on top for extra fun and flavor. Those finishing touches make every sip feel like a small celebration.
Side Dishes
This s’mores-inspired hot chocolate pairs beautifully with simple cookies or even a slice of banana bread. It’s fantastic as a dessert drink alongside brownies or vanilla cupcakes. If you want to keep the campfire spirit alive, try serving it with toasted nuts or fruit skewers to resemble typical s’mores accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, try serving your S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe in clear glass mugs to highlight the contrast between the dark chocolate and the snowy meringue top. Add edible gold glitter or pastel sprinkles to the meringue for parties or cozy gatherings. For a playful twist, consider layering crushed graham cracker at the bottom of the cup for an extra crunch surprise when you reach the bottom.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
While this recipe tastes best fresh, you can store leftover hot chocolate (without the meringue) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep it chilled and give it a good stir before reheating to ensure creaminess is restored.
Freezing
Freezing hot chocolate with dairy can sometimes affect texture, so it’s best to freeze only the bare hot chocolate liquid in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Avoid freezing the meringue as it loses that signature fluffy, toasted texture when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat your stored hot chocolate gently on the stove or in the microwave at medium power, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Once warm, quickly pipe fresh meringue toasting it just before serving to revive the full charm of this special S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use milk alternatives for the hot chocolate?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk work well and add unique flavors, but be mindful they may alter the richness and texture slightly. Adding a bit more cream substitute can help maintain that silky mouthfeel.
What if I don’t have a blowtorch to toast the meringue?
No worries! You can place the mug under a hot broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Alternatively, use a kitchen torch substitute or enjoy the meringue as is — it’s still delicious.
Is cream of tartar necessary in the recipe?
It’s optional but recommended. Cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites during whipping, helping you achieve firm, glossy peaks that hold their shape longer, especially when piping and toasting.
Can I prepare the meringue in advance?
It’s best to prepare the meringue fresh right before serving for maximum fluffiness and toastiness. However, you can whip it a short time ahead and keep it covered, piping and torching just before serving.
How spicy or sweet is this S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe?
This recipe balances sweetness from the meringue and sugar with the slight bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a smooth, rich treat. It’s not spicy but warmly comforting; you can add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a personalized kick.
Final Thoughts
This S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe is truly a delightful way to bring those cherished campfire memories indoors with a gourmet twist. Each sip is like a warm hug filled with velvety chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and nostalgic crunch. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing with friends, this recipe promises moments of pure joy. Go ahead, whip it up, and enjoy a little slice of cozy magic any time you want!
PrintS’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe
Indulge in a cozy twist on a classic winter treat with this S’mores Hot Chocolate recipe. Featuring a rich, velvety hot chocolate base made from dark chocolate, milk, and cream, topped with a fluffy toasted meringue rim and served with crunchy graham crackers for dipping. Perfect for warming up chilly evenings with the nostalgic flavors of s’mores in a comforting drink.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meringue
- 2 large egg whites
- 75 g granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
Hot Chocolate
- 470 g milk
- 230 g whipping cream or heavy cream
- 150 g dark chocolate (finely chopped)
Garnish
- Graham crackers (for garnish and dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the meringue base: In a small saucepan, bring about 1 inch of water to a boil. Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan ensuring it fits snugly without touching the water. In this bowl, combine the egg whites and granulated sugar.
- Dissolve the sugar: Stir the egg white and sugar mixture continuously for 4-5 minutes over the gentle heat until the sugar granules completely dissolve. Test by rubbing a small amount between your fingers – it should feel smooth with no grit. Carefully remove the bowl from the heat, avoiding any water dripping into the mixture.
- Whip to stiff peaks: Add the cream of tartar to the warm egg white mixture. Using an electric hand mixer, beat on medium-high speed for 5-7 minutes until stiff peaks form, creating a glossy, stable meringue.
- Transfer to piping bag: Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, or simply cut the tip off if preferred. Set aside for assembly.
- Heat the cream and milk: In another small saucepan, combine the milk and whipping cream. Cover and warm over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, making sure not to boil.
- Melt the chocolate: Remove from heat and add finely chopped dark chocolate to the warm milk and cream mixture. Let it sit for about 1 minute to melt, then stir until completely smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the hot chocolate: Pipe the prepared meringue around the rim of each mug to form a thick ring. Using a kitchen blowtorch, carefully toast the meringue until it achieves a golden brown color, adding a smoky, caramelized flavor reminiscent of campfire s’mores.
- Fill the mugs and serve: Pour the warm dark chocolate mixture into each mug inside the meringue rim. Garnish with graham crackers on the side for dipping. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the creamy, toasted, and nostalgic s’mores-inspired drink.
Notes
- The cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue but can be omitted if desired.
- Use a kitchen blowtorch carefully to toast the meringue evenly without burning.
- Finely chop the chocolate to ensure quick and smooth melting.
- Graham crackers add the authentic s’mores crunch and flavor; substitute with digestive biscuits if unavailable.
- Consume immediately as the toasted meringue may soften over time.
