Christmas Scarlet Velvet Cocoa is a beautifully vibrant holiday drink that blends creamy white chocolate with the smooth sweetness of vanilla and a rich red velvet hue. It’s warm, cozy, and absolutely stunning in a clear mug—perfect for holiday gatherings or relaxing by the Christmas tree.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cocoa is visually breathtaking and incredibly delicious. It tastes like a creamy white hot chocolate with a hint of vanilla and the classic red velvet color we all love. It comes together in minutes and instantly adds holiday magic to your table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 7 minutes
• Servings: 2 mugs

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Red food coloring (to achieve a scarlet hue)
• Whipped cream
• Red sugar crystals
• Cranberries or cherries (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until hot but not boiling.
2. Add the white chocolate chips and sugar, whisking until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add red food coloring a few drops at a time until you reach a deep scarlet velvet shade.
5. Pour into a clear mug to show off the beautiful color.
6. Top generously with whipped cream.
7. Sprinkle with red sugar crystals and add cranberries or cherries for garnish.

How to Serve

Serve in a clear glass mug so the red color shines through. Add a tall swirl of whipped cream, festive sprinkles, and a garnish of cherries or sugared cranberries for the perfect Christmas-Eve aesthetic.

Additional Tips

• For extra richness, use half-and-half instead of milk.
• Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a “true red velvet cake” flavor.
• Stir constantly to avoid scorching the milk.

Recipe Variations

• Peppermint Scarlet Cocoa: Add 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract.
• Strawberry Red Velvet: Add 1 tablespoon strawberry syrup for fruity flavor.
• White Chocolate Only: Skip the food coloring for a snowy version.

Freezing and Storage

This cocoa tastes best fresh.
If storing, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then reheat gently on the stovetop.
Do not freeze—milk and white chocolate do not thaw well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use almond, oat, or coconut milk and dairy-free white chocolate.

Why isn’t my cocoa turning red?
White chocolate can mute colors. Add more coloring until the shade deepens.

Can I make a big batch?
Absolutely—multiply ingredients and keep warm in a slow cooker.

Christmas Scarlet Velvet Cocoa

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• Author: Sophia

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Ingredients

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• ¼ cup white chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Red food coloring (to achieve a rich scarlet hue)
• Whipped cream
• Red sugar crystals (for topping)
• Cranberries or cherries (optional garnish)

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Instructions

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until hot but not boiling.
2. Add the white chocolate chips and sugar, whisking until completely melted and smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add a few drops of red food coloring until you reach a deep scarlet velvet color.
5. Pour into a clear mug.
6. Top generously with whipped cream.
7. Sprinkle with red sugar crystals and garnish with cranberries/cherries.
8. Serve hot — perfect for cozy Christmas vibes.