If you are searching for that magical holiday drink to brighten up your chilly evenings, look no further than the Grinch Hot Chocolate. This festive twist on a classic treat combines rich, creamy cocoa with a burst of cheerful green color that instantly lifts your spirits. Its perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, with a playful peppermint crunch on top, makes this drink a true crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Once you try the Grinch Hot Chocolate, it might just become your new seasonal favorite you look forward to every winter.

Grinch Hot Chocolate Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating a delightful cup of Grinch Hot Chocolate is surprisingly simple when you have the basics on hand. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the perfect harmony of flavor, creaminess, and festive flair that makes this drink unforgettable.

Milk (2 cups): Whether you prefer whole, almond, or oat, milk adds the creamy base essential for smooth, comforting hot chocolate.

Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): This brings the rich, chocolatey depth without overpowering sweetness.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cocoa just enough to make each sip satisfyingly indulgent.

Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle aromatic warmth that enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the cocoa’s richness.

Green food coloring (optional): A few drops lend the iconic Grinch green hue that makes this hot chocolate a showstopper.
Whipped cream: For that fluffy, creamy topping that turns every sip into a luxurious treat.
Crushed peppermint candies or green sprinkles: These add a festive, crunchy finish bringing both texture and seasonal cheer.

How to Make Grinch Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Heat the Milk

Start by warming your milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to avoid any scorching on the bottom. The goal is to get the milk nice and warm, but not boiling, so it’s the perfect temperature to blend with your cocoa mixture.

Step 2: Mix Cocoa and Sugar

While the milk warms, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl. Combining these dry ingredients first is a neat little trick to make sure your Grinch Hot Chocolate stays wonderfully smooth, avoiding any pesky lumps in your cup.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the milk is heated through, slowly add your cocoa mixture, stirring continuously. This gradual whisking helps everything dissolve evenly and creates that rich, velvety chocolate texture we’re aiming for. Keep stirring until the whole mixture is smooth and perfectly hot.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Color

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, fragrant note. This is also when the magic happens if you’re going for the festive look — add a few drops of green food coloring and stir well until your hot chocolate is an eye-popping, cheerful shade of Grinch green.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Pour the luscious Grinch Hot Chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top generously with whipped cream, then sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or green sprinkles on top. This final touch isn’t just pretty — the peppermint adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the creamy chocolate flavor.

How to Serve Grinch Hot Chocolate

Garnishes

Whipped cream is a must-have to crown the Grinch Hot Chocolate, creating a fluffy cloud that melts slightly into the warm drink. Crushed peppermint candies offer a cool peppermint punch and festive crunch, while green sprinkles pump up the holiday charm. Experiment with mini marshmallows or even a candy cane stirring stick for extra fun!

Side Dishes

Pair this rich and vibrant hot chocolate with buttery sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or even a slice of pumpkin bread. These comforting sides complement the sweetness and add delightful textures to your cozy treat time.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving Grinch Hot Chocolate in clear glass mugs shows off the stunning green color you worked so hard to achieve — and layers of whipped cream look irresistible piled on top. For parties, consider festive mugs with holiday designs or adding a cinnamon stick stirrer for a spicy note and elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some Grinch Hot Chocolate leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before reheating, as the cocoa may settle a bit.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t the best option for this drink since milk-based hot chocolate can sometimes separate when thawed. However, if you want to freeze, transfer it into a freezer-safe container and consume within a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Grinch Hot Chocolate gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently. This careful warming ensures the creamy, smooth texture stays intact and prevents scorching or curdling.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy milk for Grinch Hot Chocolate?

Absolutely! Almond, oat, or any plant-based milk works wonderfully and can even add a subtle nutty or creamy flavor that complements the chocolate.

How do I make the green color more vibrant?

Start with a few drops of green food coloring and gradually add more until you achieve your desired shade. Gel food coloring can provide a deeper color without thinning your hot chocolate.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a non-dairy milk and top with coconut whipped cream or any plant-based whipped topping. Just double-check that your sugar and cocoa powder are vegan-friendly.

Is there a way to make this Grinch Hot Chocolate less sweet?

Feel free to reduce the sugar to suit your taste. You can also try using a dark cocoa powder for a richer, less sweet flavor profile.

Can I add alcohol to this recipe for adults?

Definitely! A splash of peppermint schnapps, Irish cream, or even a dash of bourbon can turn this festive drink into a grown-up delight.

Final Thoughts

The Grinch Hot Chocolate is more than just a drink — it’s a hug in a mug, bursting with warmth, color, and holiday cheer. Once you whip up this delightfully creamy, joyfully green treat, you’ll find it hard to settle for plain old hot cocoa again. So gather your ingredients, embrace the festive spirit, and pour yourself a cup of pure happiness with this charming recipe.

Grinch Hot Chocolate Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 20 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Celebrate the holiday season with this festive Grinch Hot Chocolate recipe, featuring creamy milk, rich cocoa, and a splash of green food coloring for a fun twist. Topped with whipped cream and peppermint candies, this cozy drink is perfect for warming up on chilly winter days.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups milk (whole, almond, or oat)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Green food coloring (optional, for that Grinchy touch)

Toppings

Whipped cream (for topping)
Crushed peppermint candies or green sprinkles (for garnish)

Instructions

Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching and ensure it warms evenly without boiling.

Mix Cocoa and Sugar: In a separate bowl, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first avoids clumps in the hot chocolate.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually whisk the cocoa mixture into the warm milk until fully dissolved. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
Add Flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Add a few drops of green food coloring for that classic Grinchy green color, mixing well.

Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into festive mugs. Top generously with whipped cream, then sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or green sprinkles on top for a fun, festive finish.

Notes

Use any kind of milk based on preference or dietary needs: whole, almond, or oat.
Adjust the sugar quantity to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet hot chocolate.

Green food coloring is optional but enhances the Grinch-themed presentation.
For a vegan version, choose plant-based milk and whipped cream alternatives.
Crushed peppermint candies add a refreshing minty flavor, but green sprinkles are great for a purely decorative touch.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage

Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup

Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 130 mg

Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g

Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fiber: 3 g

Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg

Keywords: Grinch Hot Chocolate, holiday drink, festive hot chocolate, peppermint hot chocolate, green hot chocolate, Christmas drink