Hot Chocolate Dip is a rich, creamy, no-bake dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of hot cocoa in a chilled and dippable form. With just a few ingredients, this sweet treat comes together quickly and is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only four main ingredients
- No baking or stovetop required
- Ready in 10 minutes
- Kid-friendly and festive
- Perfect for dipping cookies, fruit, or graham crackers
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow crème (fluff)
- ½ cup hot cocoa mix (powdered)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, crushed peppermint
Directions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the marshmallow crème and hot cocoa mix; beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or other desired toppings.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 10–12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate Dip: Add a drop of peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Spicy Mexican Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon and a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Mocha Dip: Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the mix.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and hot cocoa mix.
- Nutella Hot Chocolate Dip: Replace part of the cream cheese with Nutella for a hazelnut-chocolate flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid heating as it may alter the texture.
- Make Ahead: Can be prepared a day in advance and stored chilled.
FAQs
Can I make this dip without cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or use whipped topping for a fluffier texture.
Is hot cocoa mix the same as chocolate pudding mix?
No. Hot cocoa mix contains sugar and cocoa powder. Pudding mix has thickeners and will change the texture.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipping cream?
Yes, you can substitute 2 cups of Cool Whip if preferred.
Is this dip safe to leave out at a party?
It’s best served chilled, but can be left out for 1–2 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers.
Can I use flavored hot cocoa mix?
Absolutely. Try peppermint, salted caramel, or dark chocolate flavors for variety.
Can I freeze Hot Chocolate Dip?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the creamy texture when thawed.
What can I serve with this dip?
Serve with graham crackers, strawberries, vanilla wafers, pretzels, cookies, or apple slices.
Can I make this dip lighter?
Use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping to reduce calories and fat.
Will this dip thicken as it chills?
Yes, chilling the dip helps it firm up slightly for a better consistency.
How long can I keep it in the fridge?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Hot Chocolate Dip is a fun and festive dessert that turns the beloved winter drink into a shareable treat. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s ideal for parties, potlucks, or family nights. Creamy, chocolatey, and endlessly dippable, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite.
Print
Hot Chocolate Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy Hot Chocolate Dip that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday parties. This no-bake dessert dip tastes just like hot cocoa and pairs perfectly with cookies, fruit, or pretzels.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1/2 cup hot chocolate mix (sweetened)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add marshmallow fluff, hot chocolate mix, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until light and fluffy.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings if desired.
- Serve with cookies, graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit.
Notes
- Use a high-quality hot chocolate mix for the best flavor.
- Chill before serving if you prefer a firmer texture.
- Great for dipping strawberries, shortbread, or even biscotti.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg