Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate is the kind of cozy treat I reach for on chilly evenings when I want something indulgent but simple. The first time I made this, I was craving that nostalgic campfire flavor, but I only had a jar of Nutella and a spoonful of peanut butter in the pantry. I whisked them into warm milk and was instantly transported to childhood desserts, with a grown up twist that balanced nutty depth and chocolate warmth.

Over the years I’ve adjusted the balance of peanut butter and Nutella depending on my mood, sometimes dialing up the cocoa for richness, sometimes adding a touch more sweetener when I want a decadent treat. I like how the drink feels between my hands, steaming and slightly fragrant, and how small toppings like marshmallows or crushed graham crackers add a playful crunch. I often make a double batch for guests because it disappears faster than you’d expect.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Difficulty:
Easy
Calories:
350 kcal
Cuisine:
American
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Course:
Desserts
Tools Used:
Saucepan, Whisk, Mugs

Why This Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate Hits Different

Irresistible flavor contrast

I love how Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate marries the roasted warmth of peanut butter with the silky, hazelnut chocolate notes of Nutella. That combo creates an immediate craveable mouthfeel, a creamy sip that tastes both familiar and pleasantly unexpected.

Quick and fuss free

One of the reasons I keep this recipe in my repertoire is how fast it comes together. With just a handful of pantry staples like milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a sweetener, you can have a steaming mug in minutes. When I need a pick me up between errands, this is my go to for an instant comfort boost.

Customizable for every palate

We can easily tweak the sweetness, the intensity of chocolate, or the nuttiness by adjusting the amounts of Nutella, peanut butter, and cocoa powder. I often give guests options for toppings like marshmallows or chocolate chips, and everyone ends up tailoring their glass to their own ideal treat.

Fun nostalgic twist

This recipe scratches that S’more itch without a campfire. The addition of crushed graham crackers and marshmallows turns a simple hot chocolate into a playful dessert, and I find it sparks conversation and smiles at any small gathering.

Comfort food with a lighter edge

Using low fat or skim milk keeps the drink lighter while still delivering creamy texture. If you want a slightly less rich version, I recommend powdered peanut butter as an option to tone down calories, while still keeping that nutty backbone.

Ingredients to Make Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

These ingredients work together to create a layered, comforting beverage. The base of milk gives body and creaminess, while Nutella and peanut butter add nutty, chocolate complexity. Unsweetened cocoa powder deepens the chocolate profile, and a bit of natural sweetener lifts the flavors. Toppings like marshmallows and crushed graham crackers introduce texture and that S’more sensation.

  • 4 cups low fat/skim milk: Heat-providing liquid that forms the base of the hot chocolate, adding creaminess and light dairy flavor; choose low fat or skim milk to reduce calories while maintaining smooth texture when warmed.
  • 2 tablespoons Nutella, a chocolate hazelnut spread (or any hazelnut cacao spread): Flavor-enhancing spread that contributes rich chocolatehazelnut depth and velvety body; melt slowly into the warm milk for even distribution and a glossy finish.
  • 1 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter OR powdered (dry) peanut butter to cut calories (adjust to suit your tastes): Protein- and fat-containing binder or low-calorie flavoring that adds nutty creaminess and mouthfeel; adjust quantity or use powdered peanut butter to control richness and calories.
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Bitter-sweet powder that intensifies chocolate flavor and deepens color; whisk into a small amount of milk to form a paste before combining to prevent lumps.
  • 2 tablespoons natural sweetener of choice/or raw sugar: Sweetness-providing ingredient that balances cocoa bitterness and adjusts overall sweetness level; choose natural sweeteners or raw sugar for a less processed profile.
  • Marshmallows: Texture-adding garnish that melts slightly on top, creating a pillowy contrast and a nostalgic finish; toast briefly or drop directly onto the hot drink for immediate softness.
  • Crushed graham crackers: Crunch-adding topping that provides a graham-like sweetness and crumbly contrast to the smooth hot chocolate; sprinkle around the mug rim or over whipped toppings for added presentation.
  • Chocolate chips: Intensifying chocolate bits that add pockets of melted chocolate and extra richness; sprinkle on top or stir in to achieve gooey chocolate bursts.
  • Extra Nutella: Extraspread garnish used for drizzling or creating decorative swirls that boost hazelnutchocolate flavor and visual appeal; warm slightly to achieve a pourable consistency.

Recipe Steps for Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

This is an approachable, two part process that focuses on gentle warming and careful blending. I like to take it slow so the textures stay creamy, and toppings are added just before serving for the best contrast. Keep your whisk handy and taste as you adjust the nut and chocolate balance.

  1. 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.: You will notice a thin veil of steam rising and small bubbles forming at the edges of the pan, a visual cue that the milk is warm enough to melt the spreads without scorching. The aroma will become lightly sweeter as the milk heats, and the surface will start to ripple softly. Heating too quickly causes a skin to form or the milk to scald, which gives a cooked flavor, so keep the heat steady, and stir gently to distribute warmth. If you see a rolling boil, reduce the heat immediately. One common mistake is walking away and letting it boil over, which creates a sticky mess and wastes flavor.
  2. Serve with your desired toppings.: As you add Nutella , peanut butter , unsweetened cocoa powder , and natural sweetener , the aroma deepens into rich, nutty chocolate. Use a whisk to break up any clumps and achieve a glossy, homogenous mixture. You will feel the mixture thicken slightly on the whisk, and visually it should become uniform and shiny. Stirring continually helps the fats from the spreads emulsify into the milk , creating a silky mouthfeel. A typical error is adding the powders all at once and not whisking aggressively, which results in lumps. If lumps form, pour a small amount of warm milk into a separate bowl with the cocoa to make a paste, then whisk it back in.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring, and take off heat: When the surface shows tiny, steady bubbles and a faint steam, you are at a gentle simmer, which helps intensify flavor without boiling off delicate aromatics. The steam will carry a comforting scent of toasted hazelnut and cocoa. Remove the pan from the heat at this point to preserve the creamy texture, as boiling can separate the fats and make the drink greasy. Listen for a soft pop of small bubbles rather than loud crackling. A frequent pitfall is letting the mixture boil vigorously, which changes the texture and can cause the fats to split.
  4. Serve with your desired toppings: Pour the hot chocolate into warm mugs so it stays hot longer and the toppings melt just right. Add marshmallows , crushed graham crackers , chocolate chips , or an extra drizzle of Nutella for texture and visual appeal. The melted chips will create glossy rivulets and the marshmallows will puff slightly as they soften. A helpful tip is to add crunchy toppings last to preserve contrast, since adding them too early will make them soggy.

Make It Your Own

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

I like to treat this hot chocolate as a base canvas for personal touches, whether that is more hazelnut depth or a lighter nutty note. These tips will help you customize texture, sweetness, and toppings so every cup feels made for whoever is holding it.

  • Adjust the nut ratio by starting with one tablespoon of peanut butter and one tablespoon of Nutella, then increase cautiously so the nut flavors remain balanced rather than dominant.
  • Mind your sweetener, add the natural sweetener little by little, tasting as you go, since Nutella already contributes significant sweetness and different brands vary.
  • Smooth the cocoa by making a paste with unsweetened cocoa powder and a small amount of warm milk before adding it to the pan to avoid gritty bits in the final drink.
  • Save a spoonful of Nutella warmed slightly for a glossy drizzle on top rather than stirring it all in, this gives an attractive finish and extra flavor bursts.
  • Go lighter with powdered peanut if you want the peanut character without extra fat, it blends differently so rehydrate with a touch of warm milk before adding to the full pot.
  • Garnish strategically by placing marshmallows atop the drink and sprinkling crushed graham crackers last to retain crunch and evoke S’more flavors.
  • Temper chocolate chips by stirring them in off heat for a silky swirl that melts gently without becoming grainy as it cools.

What Goes Well With This Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

This drink pairs well with cozy snacks and relaxed occasions, and it works beautifully as a dessert beverage. Serve it at small gatherings, during winter evenings, or for a special treat after a relaxed meal. Consider warm cookies or simple toasted bread to accompany the decadent mug.

  • Sweet baked goods, like plain cookies or shortbread, provide a neutral bite that complements the rich drink without competing with its flavors.
  • Family gatherings, especially winter celebrations, are ideal for serving this as a communal treat that feels indulgent and comforting.
  • Late night dessert pairing, enjoy a mug in place of a heavy dessert when you want something warm and satisfying after dinner.
  • Storage tips, keep any leftover prepared base refrigerated for up to two days and rewarm gently over low heat, whisking to recombine before serving.
  • Seasonal pairing, this is perfect for cold weather months like winter, when warm, nutty, chocolatey flavors feel most welcome.

FAQ

Absolutely, you can substitute a non dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk for the low fat or skim milk listed in the recipe. Oat milk gives the creamiest, most analogous texture to dairy, lending body that helps the Nutella and peanut butter emulsify nicely. Almond milk will be a bit thinner and slightly nutty on its own, which can complement the spreads, but you may want to reduce added natural sweetener depending on its sweetness. Warm the non dairy milk gently and whisk thoroughly to avoid graininess, and taste as you go to adjust sweetness and nut balance.

To avoid lumps, warm the milk until it is steaming and then whisk in a small slurry of unsweetened cocoa powder with a little warm liquid first, making a smooth paste before adding the rest. Add spreads like Nutella and peanut butter in increments and whisk vigorously to help them emulsify. Another trick is to remove the pan briefly from heat while whisking in thicker components, which prevents overheating and the formation of greasy bits. If lumps do form, a fine mesh sieve or an immersion blender works wonders to smooth the drink quickly.

Yes, you can prepare the hot chocolate base ahead by combining the warmed milk, Nutella, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and natural sweetener, then cooling and refrigerating it for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat, whisking to recombine fats and avoid separation. Keep toppings like marshmallows and crushed graham crackers separate and add them just before serving to preserve texture. This approach saves time during gatherings and still delivers a fresh tasting cup.

You can lighten the recipe by using skim or low fat milk as suggested, and swapping smooth peanut butter for powdered peanut butter that is rehydrated, which reduces fat while keeping peanut flavor. Use a calorie conscious natural sweetener or reduce the amount used, and consider fewer chocolate chips or skipping the extra Nutella drizzle on top. These changes maintain the essential flavors while trimming calories, though the drink will be slightly less rich and creamy.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate shines because it brings together two beloved nutty spreads into a single, comforting mug. The balance of creamy milk, glossy Nutella, and roasted peanut butter makes each sip feel indulgent yet approachable. I encourage you to give it a try on a cold evening, experiment with the nut ratios, and finish with your favorite topping to make the drink truly yours. It is an easy way to lift spirits and share something warm with friends or family.

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate

Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate is a creamy, nutty, and chocolatey drink that blends Nutella with peanut butter in warm milk. This easy, cozy beverage is perfect for a quick indulgent treat on cold nights, offering rich texture and playful S'more style toppings. Make it for guests or a solo comfort moment, it disappears fast.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mugs

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups low fat/skim milk Heat-providing liquid that forms the base of the hot chocolate, adding creaminess and light dairy flavor; choose low fat or skim milk to reduce calories while maintaining smooth texture when warmed.
  • 2 tablespoons Nutella, a chocolate hazelnut spread (or any hazelnut cacao spread) Flavor-enhancing spread that contributes rich chocolate-hazelnut depth and velvety body; melt slowly into the warm milk for even distribution and a glossy finish.
  • 1 -2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter OR powdered (dry) peanut butter to cut calories (adjust to suit your tastes) Protein- and fat-containing binder or low-calorie flavoring that adds nutty creaminess and mouthfeel; adjust quantity or use powdered peanut butter to control richness and calories.
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder Bitter-sweet powder that intensifies chocolate flavor and deepens color; whisk into a small amount of milk to form a paste before combining to prevent lumps.
  • 2 tablespoons natural sweetener of choice/or raw sugar Sweetness-providing ingredient that balances cocoa bitterness and adjusts overall sweetness level; choose natural sweeteners or raw sugar for a less processed profile.
  • Marshmallows Texture-adding garnish that melts slightly on top, creating a pillowy contrast and a nostalgic finish; toast briefly or drop directly onto the hot drink for immediate softness.
  • Crushed graham crackers Crunch-adding topping that provides a graham-like sweetness and crumbly contrast to the smooth hot chocolate; sprinkle around the mug rim or over whipped toppings for added presentation.
  • Chocolate chips Intensifying chocolate bits that add pockets of melted chocolate and extra richness; sprinkle on top or stir in to achieve gooey chocolate bursts.
  • Extra Nutella Extra-spread garnish used for drizzling or creating decorative swirls that boost hazelnut-chocolate flavor and visual appeal; warm slightly to achieve a pourable consistency.

Instructions
 

  • 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.: You will notice a thin veil of steam rising and small bubbles forming at the edges of the pan, a visual cue that the milk is warm enough to melt the spreads without scorching. The aroma will become lightly sweeter as the milk heats, and the surface will start to ripple softly. Heating too quickly causes a skin to form or the milk to scald, which gives a cooked flavor, so keep the heat steady, and stir gently to distribute warmth. If you see a rolling boil, reduce the heat immediately. One common mistake is walking away and letting it boil over, which creates a sticky mess and wastes flavor.
  • Serve with your desired toppings.: As you add Nutella , peanut butter , unsweetened cocoa powder , and natural sweetener , the aroma deepens into rich, nutty chocolate. Use a whisk to break up any clumps and achieve a glossy, homogenous mixture. You will feel the mixture thicken slightly on the whisk, and visually it should become uniform and shiny. Stirring continually helps the fats from the spreads emulsify into the milk , creating a silky mouthfeel. A typical error is adding the powders all at once and not whisking aggressively, which results in lumps. If lumps form, pour a small amount of warm milk into a separate bowl with the cocoa to make a paste, then whisk it back in.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring, and take off heat: When the surface shows tiny, steady bubbles and a faint steam, you are at a gentle simmer, which helps intensify flavor without boiling off delicate aromatics. The steam will carry a comforting scent of toasted hazelnut and cocoa. Remove the pan from the heat at this point to preserve the creamy texture, as boiling can separate the fats and make the drink greasy. Listen for a soft pop of small bubbles rather than loud crackling. A frequent pitfall is letting the mixture boil vigorously, which changes the texture and can cause the fats to split.
  • Serve with your desired toppings: Pour the hot chocolate into warm mugs so it stays hot longer and the toppings melt just right. Add marshmallows , crushed graham crackers , chocolate chips , or an extra drizzle of Nutella for texture and visual appeal. The melted chips will create glossy rivulets and the marshmallows will puff slightly as they soften. A helpful tip is to add crunchy toppings last to preserve contrast, since adding them too early will make them soggy.

Notes

  • Adjust the nut ratio by starting with one tablespoon of peanut butter and one tablespoon of Nutella, then increase cautiously so the nut flavors remain balanced rather than dominant.
  • Mind your sweetener, add the natural sweetener little by little, tasting as you go, since Nutella already contributes significant sweetness and different brands vary.
  • Smooth the cocoa by making a paste with unsweetened cocoa powder and a small amount of warm milk before adding it to the pan to avoid gritty bits in the final drink.
  • Save a spoonful of Nutella warmed slightly for a glossy drizzle on top rather than stirring it all in, this gives an attractive finish and extra flavor bursts.
  • Go lighter with powdered peanut if you want the peanut character without extra fat, it blends differently so rehydrate with a touch of warm milk before adding to the full pot.
  • Garnish strategically by placing marshmallows atop the drink and sprinkling crushed graham crackers last to retain crunch and evoke S'more flavors.
  • Temper chocolate chips by stirring them in off heat for a silky swirl that melts gently without becoming grainy as it cools.
Keyword easy winter hot chocolate, nutella hot chocolate with peanut butter, Peanut Butter Nutella Hot Chocolate recipe, s more hot chocolate drink

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