If you love a good mug of hot chocolate and you’re also a peanut butter fan, this recipe is going to be your new favorite.
It’s creamy, rich, and gives you that perfect swirl of sweet cocoa and nutty peanut butter in every sip.
I’ve made this one so many times on chilly afternoons—it hits the spot every single time.
Plus, it takes just a few minutes to whip up and makes you feel like you’re sipping something special from a fancy café…without even leaving the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Optional: chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish
Why I Love This Recipe
I grew up on classic hot cocoa, but one winter I stirred in a spoonful of peanut butter just to try something new—and wow. It’s now a cozy-day must for me. Here’s why I keep making it:
- It’s ready in 10 minutes flat
- Uses pantry staples I already have
- It’s rich, cozy, and so satisfying
- Perfect for those nights you want something sweet but not a full dessert
Servings and Time
Servings: 2 mugs
Total Time: 10 minutes
Macros (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 17g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fat in the peanut butter blends beautifully with the milk, creating a velvety texture that feels extra creamy. Cocoa powder needs both heat and fat to fully bloom, which deepens the chocolate flavor. The little pinch of salt balances the sweet and enhances both the chocolate and peanut butter.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the milk: Can make it taste scorched. Keep the heat medium-low.
- Not whisking enough: Cocoa powder clumps easily. Whisk constantly until smooth.
- Using natural peanut butter: It can separate. Use creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for best texture.
What to Serve With
- Toasted peanut butter sandwiches
- Chocolate chip cookies
- A slice of banana bread
- Cinnamon rolls for a sweet brunch
Tools Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Mug for serving
- Spoon or spatula
Substitutions and Variations
- Use almond or oat milk to make it dairy-free
- Swap sugar with maple syrup or honey
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of espresso for flavor twists
- Make it extra rich with a splash of heavy cream
Make Ahead Tips
You can make the hot chocolate base (everything except the whipped cream topping) and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove and stir well before serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Milk
Pour 2 cups of whole milk into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Let it warm up until just steaming—don’t let it boil.
Step 2: Whisk in Cocoa and Sugar
Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of sugar into the warm milk. Whisk constantly until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter
Stir in 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter. Whisk until it melts completely and blends into the hot cocoa.
Step 4: Add Vanilla & Salt
Turn off the heat. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk gently to finish blending.
Step 5: Serve and Top
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with a swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder if you like.
Leftovers & Storage
Store any leftover hot chocolate (without whipped cream) in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove while whisking. Add fresh whipped cream when ready to serve.
FAQ
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, but it will change the flavor a bit. Stick with creamy nut butters for the best texture.
What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk makes it creamy, but any milk (even non-dairy) will work.
Can I microwave instead of stove?
Yes. Warm the milk in a microwave-safe bowl, then whisk in the rest.
Is this very sweet?
It’s moderately sweet. Adjust the sugar up or down to your taste.
Wrap-Up
This Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate is the coziest drink you didn’t know you needed. It’s rich, creamy, and just a little extra thanks to that swirl of peanut butter. Perfect for slow mornings or chilly nights. Give it a try, and if you do, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out or if you have any questions!
