How to make an orange hot chocolate?

Start by warming your choice of milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate, followed by freshly grated orange zest or a drop of orange extract. Sweeten to taste with sugar, maple syrup, or honey. Let the mixture gently simmer to infuse the orange flavor fully, then strain (optional) and serve hot. You can customize the base with plant-based milk or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for depth.

How to make a chocolate orange drink?

A chocolate orange drink is usually made by combining a rich cocoa base with orange flavor, either from zest, orange extract, or citrus oil. This can be a hot drink like an orange hot chocolate recipe or a cold one like an iced chocolate-orange latte. The key is to balance the richness of chocolate with the bright acidity of the orange for a drink that’s smooth, flavorful, and slightly aromatic.

Can you add orange juice to hot chocolate?

Technically yes, but it’s not the best method. Orange juice can curdle milk and affect the texture of your drink. If you really want to try it, mix orange juice with water and add it after the cocoa has been fully combined, but avoid boiling it with milk. For best results, stick with orange zest or a small drop of food-grade orange essential oil to infuse the flavor safely and smoothly.

Can you mix orange and chocolate?

Absolutely. Orange and chocolate are a classic culinary pairing known for their complementary flavors. The bitterness of dark chocolate is mellowed by the sweetness and acidity of orange, making the duo ideal for drinks, cakes, cookies, and candy. This is why the orange hot chocolate recipe works so well—it combines that timeless pairing into one cozy mug.

Does orange pair with chocolate?

Yes, and it's one of the most popular flavor pairings in desserts worldwide. The citrus notes lift the richness of chocolate, providing a refreshing contrast. In hot drinks, orange adds aroma and depth, especially when infused into milk or cream. For anyone who enjoys gourmet truffles or orange-infused dark chocolate bars, this combo in a drinkable form is irresistible.

How to mix orange and milk?

Orange and milk can be tricky because the acid in citrus can curdle dairy. The trick is to use zest or extract, which provide flavor without acid. If using juice, add it only after milk has been heated and removed from direct heat, and keep the amounts minimal. The safest and most flavorful way to mix orange and milk is by using orange zest in recipes like our orange hot chocolate recipe.

Orange Hot Chocolate Recipe | 5 Cozy Variations You’ll Love

Description

This rich and creamy orange hot chocolate recipe is the perfect cozy drink for chilly days. Made with real dark chocolate and fresh orange zest, it’s a citrusy twist on a classic cocoa that’s both comforting and refreshing. Easily adaptable for vegan or festive variations!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups whole milk (or oat milk for vegan option)
⅓ cup chopped dark chocolate (or 2 tbsp cocoa powder + 2 tbsp sugar)
1–2 tsp orange zest (or ¼ tsp food-grade orange extract)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
1–2 tsp maple syrup or honey (to taste)
Pinch of sea salt
Whipped cream or shaved dark chocolate (for topping, optional)

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Add the chopped dark chocolate (or cocoa and sugar) and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in orange zest (or extract), vanilla, and maple syrup. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to infuse flavor.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance richness. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Optional: strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve for a silky texture.
Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, and serve hot.

Notes

Orange zest adds natural citrus flavor—avoid using juice to prevent curdling.

For a festive touch, add 1 oz Grand Marnier or espresso.

Vegan version: use oat or almond milk and dairy-free chocolate.

Make ahead and reheat gently; do not boil.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Beverage, Wellness
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American-European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 65mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg