Save This decadent apple cider hot chocolate combines the rich comfort of classic hot cocoa with the warm, spiced notes of apple cider for a truly indulgent fall and winter beverage. The contrast between the chocolate's depth and the apple's brightness creates a surprisingly harmonious flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I first created this recipe during a particularly cold autumn evening when I couldn't decide between hot chocolate and apple cider. On a whim, I combined them and the result was so magical that it's become our family's signature drink for decorating the Christmas tree each year.
Ingredients
- Whole milk: creates the perfect creamy base for hot chocolate without being too heavy
- Heavy cream: adds luxurious richness that makes this drink feel special
- Semisweet chocolate chips: melt beautifully and provide balanced sweetness look for 60% cacao for best results
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: intensifies the chocolate flavor choose Dutch processed for smoother taste
- Granulated sugar: allows you to control sweetness level
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor profile use pure not imitation for best results
- Fresh apple cider: brings authentic apple flavor avoid apple juice substitutes if possible
- Cinnamon stick cloves and nutmeg: create the signature fall spice profile
- Whipped cream: provides the perfect creamy topping use freshly whipped for best results
Instructions
- Prepare the Spiced Cider:
- Combine apple cider with cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low flame until you see gentle steam rising from the surface, about 5 minutes. The goal is to infuse the spices without reducing the cider too much. Remove from heat and strain out all spices using a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently to extract maximum flavor.
- Create the Hot Chocolate Base:
- In a separate medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly to prevent scorching. Continue until chocolate completely melts and mixture becomes smooth and steaming hot, about 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully to ensure it doesn't boil, which can cause the milk to separate.
- Assemble the Drinks:
- Pour approximately 1/2 cup of your spiced apple cider into each mug, filling about 1/3 of the way. The cider should still be warm, but if it has cooled, briefly reheat before assembling.
- Complete the Float:
- Carefully pour the hot chocolate mixture over the cider in each mug, filling to about 1/2 inch from the top. The chocolate will naturally create a beautiful layered effect if poured gently.
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- Stir each mug gently once or twice to partially combine the flavors while maintaining some distinction between layers. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a light dusting of ground cinnamon, and optional chocolate shavings or thin apple slices for garnish.
- Serve Immediately:
- Present while still hot and encourage guests to stir to their preference. Some prefer to maintain the layered effect while others enjoy fully blending the flavors together.
Save The fresh apple cider is truly what makes this recipe special. I discovered this combination after visiting an apple orchard with my family where they were serving both hot chocolate and cider. My youngest daughter accidentally poured chocolate into her cider cup, and after tasting it, declared it the best mistake ever. We've been perfecting this recipe ever since.
Storage Tips
This beverage is best enjoyed immediately after preparation as the temperature and texture are optimal when fresh.
If you need to prepare components ahead of time, the spiced apple cider can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before assembling the drinks.
The hot chocolate base can be made a few hours ahead and kept warm in a thermos or slow cooker on the warm setting. Stir occasionally to prevent skin formation on top.
Seasonal Adaptations
Fall Harvest Version
Use freshly pressed apple cider from local orchards
Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the whipped cream
Garnish with caramel drizzle and a small cinnamon stick stirrer
Winter Holiday Version
Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the hot chocolate base
Use chocolate peppermint sticks as stirrers
Garnish with crushed candy canes instead of cinnamon
Spring Celebration Version
Use a lighter apple juice instead of cider
Add fresh berries as garnish alongside apple slices
Incorporate a splash of lemon juice for brightness
Ingredient Substitutions
For those who prefer a less sweet drink, use bittersweet chocolate chips instead of semisweet and reduce the sugar by half.
If apple cider isn't available, substitute with unsweetened apple juice simmered with additional spices (double the cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg).
For a dairy free version, substitute oat milk for whole milk and coconut cream for heavy cream. The coconut adds a complementary flavor that works well with the apple spices.
Serving Suggestions
This indulgent beverage pairs beautifully with a variety of treats:
Serve alongside cinnamon sugar donuts or apple fritters for a delightful weekend brunch
Offer with buttery shortbread cookies for an elegant afternoon treat
Create a dessert beverage bar with this drink as the centerpiece, accompanied by gingerbread cookies and maple candied nuts
Save Enjoy this delightful blend of chocolate and apple cider, perfect for cozy gatherings or a special treat.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use store-bought apple cider for this drink?
Yes, store-bought apple cider works well. Choose one with no added sugar or spices for best results.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Replace milk and cream with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version.
- → Can I prepare this drink ahead of time?
You can make both the hot chocolate and spiced cider in advance. Reheat gently before serving for best flavor.
- → What toppings work best?
Classic whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, chocolate shavings, or thin apple slices all add flair and flavor.
- → Is this beverage suitable for children?
Absolutely, it's a sweet and warming treat. Omit any alcohol additions to keep it kid-friendly.
- → What can I serve alongside this drink?
Cinnamon sugar donuts or gingerbread cookies pair deliciously, making for a festive combination.