This Grinch Hot Chocolate is a cozy and festive drink that captures the holiday spirit perfectly. As the weather gets cooler, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a mug of creamy hot chocolate, especially one that’s bright green and as fun as a Whoville celebration. Picture yourself snuggled up with a fluffy blanket, a holiday movie playing in the background, and a steaming cup of Grinch Hot Chocolate in your hands. With rich white chocolate, a hint of peppermint, and a splash of vanilla, this recipe is not just easy to make, but it also adds a playful twist to your usual hot cocoa. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat after a long day. So, gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and let’s make this delightful drink that’s sure to warm your heart!
Why This Recipe Works
This Grinch Hot Chocolate combines creamy white chocolate with delightful flavors of vanilla and peppermint, providing a festive twist that’s sure to impress. Our careful selection of ingredients ensures a rich, velvety texture, while the addition of green food coloring brings a playful, holiday spirit. Each sip envelops you in warmth, making it the perfect drink for cold, wintry nights.
Why You’ll Love This Grinch Hot Chocolate
Celebrate the season with this whimsical treat that’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Each mug is a vibrant splash of color and flavor, making it a joy to present to guests or share with family. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply seeking a sweet escape after a long day, this Grinch Hot Chocolate is a fun way to spread holiday cheer!

Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 10 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green gel food coloring
- Garnishes: whipped cream and small red hearts
How to Make Grinch Hot Chocolate

Heat the Milk
In a medium saucepan, pour in the whole milk and place over medium-low heat. It’s important to keep an eye on it as you want it warm without boiling.
Melt the Chocolate
As the milk heats, add the white chocolate chips. Stirring constantly helps them melt evenly into the milk. This step is crucial; you want a perfectly smooth blend, not a lumpy mess! Wait until the mixture approaches a gentle simmer.
Add Flavor Extracts
After the chocolate has melted fully, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts, blending them into the warm chocolate mixture. The aroma will be so inviting, you might find it hard to wait!
Color the Cocoa
Now comes the fun part! Add green gel food coloring into the mixture and stir until you achieve the perfect Grinch green hue. The vibrant color makes this drink so festive and fun; it almost feels magical.
Serve the Hot Chocolate
Pour the festive green hot chocolate into heat-proof mugs, ensuring each mug is filled generously. You want your guests to enjoy every last drop, as this drink is not just an appetizer; it’s a star on your holiday table.
Top with Whipped Cream
Finish off each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful touch, sprinkle on small red heart garnishes. These tiny pops of red contrast beautifully and make your Grinch Hot Chocolate even more cheerful.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your Grinch Hot Chocolate alongside holiday cookies or classic gingerbread for a perfect festive treat. You could even pair it with some tasty peppermint bark to amplify those holiday flavors. Whatever you choose, the combination will create a wonderful experience.
Tips for Success
- Stir continuously while heating to prevent the chocolate from burning. Taking the time for this step ensures your drink’s texture remains velvety.
- Adjust the amount of green food coloring to match your desired “Grinch” shade. A little goes a long way!
- For an added kick, consider adding a splash of peppermint schnapps if you’re crafting some adult-only cups.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a deeper flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, simply use almond milk and dairy-free chocolate chips. There are so many paths to a delicious cup.
Storage Tips
This Grinch Hot Chocolate is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat it on the stove or pop it in the microwave for a comforting treat.
Pairing Ideas
Pair with festive treats like peppermint bark, sugar cookies, or even a rich chocolate brownie for a complementary dessert experience. Each pairing brings extra joy, making your hot chocolate moment even more special.

FAQs
What type of chocolate chips work best for Grinch Hot Chocolate?
White chocolate chips are recommended for their creamy texture and sweet flavor; however, feel free to experiment with dark chocolate if you’re in the mood for something different!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, then reheat it gently when ready to serve. Just remember to stir while warming to maintain that creamy consistency.
Is there a way to make this hot chocolate healthier?
Consider using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of sugar by adjusting the white chocolate to your taste preferences. It’s a simple tweak for a slightly lighter version.
Can I freeze leftover Grinch Hot Chocolate?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy your festive drink again!
What if I don’t have green food coloring?
You can omit it, and the hot chocolate will still be delicious! Alternatively, natural food dyes or even spinach powder could be used for coloring without altering the taste.
The Grinch Hot Chocolate is not just a drink; it’s an experience filled with joy and warmth. Its rich flavors and festive colors make it the quintessential holiday beverage that invites everyone to gather ’round. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or just looking to brighten a chilly day, this delightful treat is sure to bring smiles and cheer. Embrace the whimsy of the season and share the joy of this enchanting drink with family and friends!
Print
Grinch Hot Chocolate
This Grinch Hot Chocolate is a festive treat that’s bright green and delicious, combining creamy white chocolate with peppermint for a delightful drink.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 10 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green gel food coloring
- Garnishes: whipped cream and small red hearts
Instructions
- Heat whole milk in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add white chocolate chips and stir constantly until melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Add green gel food coloring and mix well.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and red heart garnishes.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Stir constantly while heating to keep the texture smooth.
Adjust food coloring amount for desired shade.
Can add peppermint schnapps for an adult version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 60
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 65
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 50






