Cozy Pink Velvet Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow Hearts
A rich, velvety pink hot chocolate made with real white chocolate and a splash of beet juice for natural color, topped with adorable homemade marshmallow hearts. Ready in under 15 minutes, this cozy drink is perfect for Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or any day that needs a little extra warmth and whimsy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces good-quality white chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 teaspoons beet juice
- Pinch of salt
- 12 large marshmallows
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Red or pink sanding sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Pink sprinkles (optional)
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
- Freeze-dried strawberry powder (optional)
Instructions
- Make the marshmallow hearts first. Dust kitchen scissors or a sharp knife with powdered sugar. Cut each large marshmallow diagonally from the top center to the bottom edge, then repeat on the other side to create a heart shape. You’ll get two hearts per marshmallow. If using sanding sugar, dip cut edges in water then into sugar. Set aside on parchment paper.
- Pour milk and cream into a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-low until warm but not simmering, with tiny wisps of steam rising.
- Add chopped white chocolate and whisk constantly until completely smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Do not walk away.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk to combine.
- Add 1 teaspoon beet juice and whisk. For deeper color, add more ½ teaspoon at a time until desired shade is reached. Remember color will look slightly lighter in the mug.
- Continue warming over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally, until steaming and hot throughout. Do not let it boil.
- Taste and adjust: add more vanilla, salt, or beet juice if needed.
- Ladle into mugs. Top with whipped cream if desired, then float 2-3 marshmallow hearts on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use real white chocolate with cocoa butter for best texture. If white chocolate seizes, remove from heat and whisk in 1 tablespoon warm cream. For dairy-free, use full-fat oat milk and canned coconut cream. Can be kept warm in a slow cooker on low for up to 1 hour. Marshmallow hearts can be made up to a week ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (about 12 ounc
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 34
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 17
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Protein: 8
Keywords: pink hot chocolate, velvet hot chocolate, Valentine's Day, white chocolate, beet juice, marshmallow hearts, cozy drink, Galentine's Day