If hot chocolate and sugar cookies had a baby, this would be it.
It’s rich, creamy vanilla hot cocoa topped with buttery sugar cookie crumbles and fun sprinkles.
It’s like sipping dessert.
I love making this when I want something warm and cozy but just a little extra.
Perfect for a night in with a movie or when you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 sugar cookie (baked, cooled, and crumbled)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Sprinkles (any kind you like)
Why I Love This Recipe
This one hits all the right spots. I first made it on a chilly December night when I was out of cocoa powder but had white chocolate chips in the pantry. The combo of vanilla and sugar cookie was so good I wrote it down right away.
- It’s a sweet change from classic cocoa
- You only need a few ingredients
- It’s perfect for cozy nights
- The cookie crumbles take it over the top
- Great for entertaining or just treating yourself
Makes: 2 servings
Total Time: 10 minutes
Macros (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 380
Protein: 6g
Fat: 23g
Carbs: 38g
Sugar: 32g
Fiber: 0g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
White chocolate melts into the milk and cream, giving this hot chocolate its smooth and velvety texture. The fat from the cream helps carry flavor and gives that rich mouthfeel. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, making it taste like a cookie in a mug.
Common Mistakes
- Boiling the milk – You want it hot, not bubbling. Boiling can burn the milk and ruin the texture.
- Skipping the salt – A pinch makes all the flavors pop.
- Using low-fat milk – You’ll miss out on creaminess. Whole milk really makes a difference.
- Overheating the white chocolate – It can seize up. Melt it low and slow in the hot milk.
What to Serve With
- A warm sugar cookie (of course)
- Shortbread or vanilla wafers
- A slice of vanilla pound cake
- Fresh berries for a light side
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mug
- Small bowl (for crumbling the cookie)
- Piping bag or spoon for whipped cream
Substitutions & Variations
- Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy
- Swap white chocolate for vanilla chips or chopped baking bar
- Add a drop of almond extract for a sugar cookie twist
- Use crushed shortbread or graham crackers if you don’t have a sugar cookie
- Top with mini marshmallows instead of whipped cream
Make Ahead Tips
You can make the hot chocolate up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving. Keep cookie crumbles separate until serving.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Heat the milk and cream
In a small saucepan, add 2 cups whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Turn the heat to medium and let it warm up until hot but not boiling.
Step 2: Melt in the white chocolate
Add 1/3 cup white chocolate chips to the hot milk mixture. Whisk gently until completely melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add vanilla and salt
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk until fully mixed in.
Step 4: Pour and top
Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs. Top each with whipped cream, then sprinkle with sugar cookie crumbles and sprinkles.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve right away while it’s hot and cozy.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftover hot chocolate (without toppings) in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Always add whipped cream and cookie crumbles fresh.
FAQ
Can I make this without white chocolate?
It won’t be the same, but you could try sweetened condensed milk with vanilla for a similar vibe.
Can I use a microwave instead?
Yes, heat milk and cream in 30-second bursts until hot, then stir in white chocolate, vanilla, and salt.
What kind of sugar cookie should I use?
Any baked sugar cookie works—store-bought or homemade!
Time to Try It
This is one of those treats that feels a little fancy but is so easy to make. I hope you give it a try next time you want something sweet and warm. If you do, come back and leave a comment! I’d love to hear how it turned out or help with any questions.
