The Ultimate Indulgence: Peanut Butter Nutella S’mores Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prepare to elevate your cozy winter nights with a drink that is nothing short of spectacular: the Peanut Butter Nutella S’mores Hot Chocolate. Imagine a rich, creamy hot chocolate infused with the irresistible blend of sweet Nutella and savory peanut butter, then crowned with perfectly toasted marshmallows and a sprinkle of crunchy graham cracker crumble. This isn’t just a beverage; it’s a dessert experience in a mug, designed to warm you from the inside out and satisfy every craving.
While its cousin, the classic Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate, is undeniably delicious, this S’mores iteration truly deserves its own pedestal. The addition of sticky, gooey marshmallows and the textural delight of crushed graham crackers transforms a great drink into an extraordinary one. It taps into that nostalgic campfire feeling, bringing the joy of s’mores right into your home without needing a bonfire.
Why This S’mores Hot Chocolate is a Must-Try
There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, and when you blend it with the creamy texture of hot chocolate, you’ve already hit a home run. But then, enter the S’mores element! The toasted marshmallows create a wonderfully gooey cap, adding a delightful chewiness and a hint of caramelized sweetness. The graham cracker crumble isn’t just for show; it provides that essential crunchy contrast, completing the iconic s’mores flavor profile. This drink is a symphony of textures and tastes: sweet, salty, creamy, crunchy, and utterly comforting.
This recipe isn’t merely an upgrade; it’s a celebration of comfort food. It takes familiar, beloved flavors and brings them together in a way that feels fresh and exciting. It’s perfect for a chilly evening, a special treat after a long day, or a delightful addition to any festive gathering. Imagine serving this on a snowy afternoon – pure bliss!
The Enduring Appeal of Nutella and Peanut Butter
It’s no secret that Nutella holds a special place in many hearts, including mine! My blog has seen its fair share of Nutella-inspired creations, starting with that incredible Nutella Hot Chocolate, closely followed by the indulgent Nutella Stuffed Churro French Toast, and most recently, those delightful Nutella S’mores Crepes. Perhaps it’s the hazelnut chocolate spread’s undeniable versatility or maybe it’s the fact that it’s often on sale at the supermarket – either way, my pantry seems to have a permanent stock.
The beauty of Nutella lies in its ability to transform simple dishes into extraordinary treats. When paired with peanut butter, another pantry staple, it creates a flavor dynamic that is both harmonious and exciting. The nutty richness of peanut butter beautifully balances the sweet, chocolatey hazelnut notes of Nutella, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. This hot chocolate leverages that classic pairing to its fullest potential, promising a truly satisfying experience with every sip.
Transforming Hot Chocolate into a S’mores Masterpiece
The transition from a delicious Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate to this S’mores variant is surprisingly simple, yet profoundly impactful. The core hot chocolate base remains the same: a velvety blend of milk, Nutella, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and a touch of sweetener, all whisked together to perfection. The magic truly happens with the final touches. By simply sprinkling crushed graham crackers over the top and toasting the marshmallows with a kitchen torch (or even under a broiler for a quick moment), you unlock a whole new dimension of flavor and fun.
This idea sparked from the recent creation of those amazing Nutella S’mores Crepes. The instant realization was that if those flavors work so beautifully in a crepe, they would be absolutely divine in a hot chocolate. And indeed, the result is nothing short of a revelation. The difference is minimal in effort but maximal in sensory delight. It’s a testament to how small additions can make a huge difference, transforming a comforting drink into a truly celebratory one.
And ladies and gentlemen… with those simple additions, we have lift off into a world of pure hot chocolate euphoria!
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Peanut Butter Nutella S’mores Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 4 cups low fat/skim milk
- 2 tablespoons Nutella , a chocolate hazelnut spread (or any hazelnut cacao spread)
- 1-2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter OR powdered (dry) peanut butter to cut calories (adjust to suit your tastes)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons natural sweetener of choice/or raw sugar
- Marshmallows
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed graham crackers
- Chocolate chips
- Extra Nutella
Instructions
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Heat milk in a medium sized saucepan on medium – high heat until beginning to warm and steam. Add the spread, peanut butter, cocoa powder and sugar, and whisk until dissolved and combined. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring, and take off heat.
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Serve with your desired toppings.
Notes
- Crush graham crackers on top and add marshmallows for those addictive S’more flavours!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect S’mores Hot Chocolate
- Milk Choice Matters: While the recipe suggests low-fat/skim milk, feel free to experiment. Whole milk will yield an even richer, creamier texture, while a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can offer a delightful twist for those with dietary preferences.
- Peanut Butter Preference: Smooth peanut butter is recommended for a silky texture, but a crunchy variety could add an extra layer of nutty crunch. Adjust the amount (1-2 tablespoons) to find your perfect balance of sweet and salty peanut flavor. Powdered peanut butter is a great option for cutting calories without sacrificing taste.
- Sweetener Adjustment: The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of natural sweetener or raw sugar, but always taste and adjust. Hot chocolate is highly personal, so tailor the sweetness to your palate.
- Toasting Marshmallows Like a Pro: A kitchen torch is ideal for achieving that perfectly browned, gooey marshmallow top. If you don’t have one, a quick trip under the broiler (watch carefully, they brown fast!) or even simply letting them melt on top of the hot chocolate can work.
- Graham Cracker Crunch: For the best texture, crush your graham crackers just before serving so they retain their crispness. A food processor makes quick work of this, or you can place them in a bag and crush with a rolling pin.
Customization and Variations
This Peanut Butter Nutella S’mores Hot Chocolate is already a star, but there’s always room for personal touches!
- Add More Chocolate: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate into the hot milk for an even deeper chocolate flavor.
- Whipped Cream Wonderland: For an extra decadent layer, top your toasted marshmallows with a dollop of fresh whipped cream before adding the graham cracker crumble.
- Spicy Kick: A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder can add an unexpected and delightful warmth, complementing the chocolate beautifully.
- Adult Version: For a grown-up treat, consider adding a splash of rum, Kahlúa, or a hazelnut liqueur (like Frangelico) to your mug.
- Different Nut Butters: While peanut butter is classic, you could try almond butter or cashew butter for a slightly different nutty profile.
When to Enjoy This Dreamy Beverage
This hot chocolate is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s perfect for:
- Cozy Nights In: Snuggle up on the couch with a good book or movie.
- After-Dinner Treat: A satisfying dessert that’s also a comforting drink.
- Holiday Gatherings: Impress your guests with this unique and delicious beverage.
- Cold Weather Comfort: The ultimate antidote to a chilly day.
Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this Peanut Butter Nutella S’mores Hot Chocolate promises to be a memorable addition to your winter repertoire. It’s simple to make, incredibly delicious, and packed with layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Dive into this delightful indulgence today!