This Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is my favorite Starbucks copycat, that may even be better than the real thing, only because I can add an extra heaping amount of caramel if I want to.
If you’re struggling with this cold weather like I am, or just want to sit down and enjoy the fact that Christmas is just around the corner, I would suggest whipping up a quick batch of this chocolatey goodness.
Recipe Ingredient Notes
To make Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate, you will need the following ingredients:
- Cocoa
- Sugar
- Milk (preferrably 2% or whole)
- Water
- Vanilla
- Sea Salt
- Hazelnut Syrup
- Caramel Sauce
- Whipped Creaming (for topping)
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you only need a few simple kitchen tools. We recommend using the following equipment:
How to Make Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
- In a pot over medium heat, mix sugar, cocoa, and water and bring to a boil.
- Add in milk, vanilla, and salt and heat until warm.
- Mix in hazelnut and caramel sauce.
- Serve topped with whipped cream, caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Enjoy.
Serving Pairings
We love pairing this hot chocolate with a delicious snack, especially something we can dip into our hot chocolate. Here are a few of our favorite dippings and sides:
- Donuts: The ultimate holiday combo. This is also a fun date night or family night. Our favorite donut recipe, is our Puff Pastry Donuts.
- Graham Crackers: Graham crackers and milk are delicious, but have you ever had graham crackers and hot chocolate? Out of this world.
- Chocolate chip cookies: Okay does it get any better than this combination? The two ultimate comfort foods come together to create holiday magic. Try our favorite cookies, Sheet Pan Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.
- Oreos: Another cookie classic, but they are way better when dipped in hot chocolate, than in milk.
- Candy Canes: We love adding a taste of peppermint to our hot chocolate. It just tastes like Christmas in a cup.
Enjoy More Delicious Warm Beverages
Nothing complements a delicious meal quite like a thirst-quenching beverage. Check out our comprehensive list of non-alcoholic beverage recipes.
- Disneyland’s Hot Chocolate
- Grandma’s Warm Spiced Cider
- Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
- Warm Cranberry Citrus Drink

Starbucks Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup cocoa
- ½ cup sugar
- 4 cups milk
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 Tablespoon Hazelnut Syrup
- 3 Tablespoon caramel sauce + extra for topping
- whipped cream for topping
Equipment
Instructions
- In a pot over medium heat, mix sugar, cocoa, and water and bring to a boil.
- Add in milk, vanilla, and salt and heat until warm.
- Mix in hazelnut and caramel sauce.
- Serve topped with whipped cream, caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Enjoy.




















This looks so yummy. I live in MA and it is so much warmer here than usual. As a matter of fact, I just played in a Christmas concert in 60 degree weather. Although it was nice not having to drag timpani through the snow, I’m mourning my winter. Maybe I’ll save this recipe for the first time it snows.
Hmmm, I’ve never seen hazelnut syrup-is it common? Are 2 teaspoons of sea salt correct?
This looks so delicious and cozy. I can’t wait until “winter” finally hits here in Pittsburgh to give this recipe a try.
Thank you for the post!
Even though it is far warmer here in Germany this December, Salted Caramel Mocha is a must have so this will definitely be tried! Thank you!