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White Chocolate Orange Almond Hot Chocolate

A luxurious, creamy hot chocolate featuring rich white chocolate, bright citrus orange, and warm almond flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz high-quality white chocolate baking bars finely chopped
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp orange zest from 1 large orange
  • 0.25 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp pure almond extract
  • 0.25 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar optional, to taste
For Garnish
  • Freshly whipped cream
  • Toasted sliced almonds
  • Additional orange zest

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Fine microplane or zester
  • Heatproof Bowl

Method
 

  1. Prepare ingredients: Finely chop white chocolate. Zest and juice the orange.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat milk and cream over medium-low until steaming (do not boil). Add orange zest, remove from heat, cover, and steep for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture over it. Let sit 1 min, then whisk until smooth.
  4. Pour melted chocolate back into the saucepan with remaining milk. Heat over low heat. Add orange juice, almond extract, and salt.
  5. Whisk constantly and vigorously for 3-5 minutes until fully combined, hot, and velvety. Taste and add optional sugar if desired.
  6. Pour into warmed mugs. Top with whipped cream, toasted almonds, and a sprinkle of orange zest. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a smoother texture, ensure white chocolate is finely chopped. Do not boil the milk mixture after adding the chocolate to prevent separation. Reheat leftovers gently on low, whisking well.