Matcha White Hot Cocoa
Imagine the creamiest white hot cocoa infused with a strong shot of matcha—this drink is like a cozy hug in a mug! The balance of sweet white chocolate and earthy matcha is pure magic, with every sip bringing warmth and comfort. Top it with cream foam or toasted marshmallows for a little extra flair, and you’ve got yourself the perfect treat for chilly days.
Making the White Hot Cocoa Base
Start by heating your milk gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat. White chocolate is the secret to a rich and velvety cocoa base, so add pieces of white chocolate and stir as it melts slowly into the milk. Keep stirring, and make sure the heat stays low—too much heat can cause the milk to scald or the chocolate to separate. For that perfect hint of extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract, and don’t forget a pinch of salt, which will balance the sweetness and bring out all the subtle flavors of the chocolate.
To keep the cocoa base smooth and luscious, avoid bringing it to a full boil. White chocolate is delicate, so just keep it warm enough to fully melt and blend. If you’d like a thicker consistency, you could add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the milk.
Preparing the Matcha Shots
Matcha is a special addition here, and the key to a perfect shot is getting a smooth, clump-free blend. Begin by sifting the matcha powder into a small bowl. Each drink calls for about 4 to 5 grams of matcha powder, whisked with roughly 40 to 50 grams of warm water. It’s essential to use water that’s warm but not too hot (around 150°F is ideal); using boiling water can make matcha taste bitter or metallic.
Whisk the sifted matcha with warm water, using a bamboo whisk if you have one, or a small electric frother for the perfect texture. Whisk in a “W” motion until you see a smooth, foamy layer on top of the matcha. This frothy shot adds a beautiful layer of flavor when poured into the cocoa base, giving a delicate, earthy undertone along with a caffeine kick to the sweet, creamy drink.
Assembling Your Matcha White Hot Cocoa
Now that you have your white hot cocoa and matcha shot ready, it’s time to bring the two together! Start by filling each mug about two-thirds of the way with the white-hot cocoa base. Then, slowly pour the matcha shot on top. For a gorgeous presentation, let the drink sit with the matcha and white chocolate layers, or give it a gentle stir to create a soft swirl of green and white.
If you want a more intense matcha flavor, you can add another half-shot, whisked separately, on top.
Topping Ideas: Cream Foam or Toasted Marshmallows
To add even more indulgence, try topping your drink with a soft, luscious cream foam. Simply whisk some heavy cream with a splash of milk, vanilla extract, and white sugar until it’s thick but not fully whipped. You’re aiming for a thick foam that will sit on top of the cocoa without sinking or becoming too stiff.
If marshmallows are more your style, top the drink with a handful of mini marshmallows and carefully toast them with a kitchen torch until they’re golden brown and just a little gooey. Toasted marshmallows add a hint of smokey caramel-like flavor, which pairs perfectly with the white chocolate’s sweetness.
Tips for Leftovers, Making Ahead & Variations
While this Matcha White Hot Cocoa is best enjoyed fresh, you can save any extra cocoa base and matcha separately in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the cocoa base over low heat, stirring to keep it smooth. The matcha shot may settle in the fridge, so give it a quick whisk before adding it to the warmed cocoa.
If you’re making a larger batch for guests, prepare the white-hot cocoa base in advance and keep it warm on the stovetop over very low heat. Prepare the matcha shots just before serving to keep their flavor fresh and vibrant.
Cozy, rich, and with that beautiful balance of sweet and earthy, this Matcha White Hot Cocoa is the ultimate drink to warm you up on a chilly day. Each sip brings you the soft richness of white chocolate and the comforting flavor of matcha, all topped off with your favorite toppings for an extra treat.
Craving More Drinks? Try These Recipes Out!
If you tried this recipe and loved it, drop by down below and let me know how you liked it with a rating and comment! Feel free to also leave a question there about this recipe and I’ll get right back to it.
To see more recipes and behind-the-scenes, follow along on Instagram and Youtube! I’m also now on Pinterest pinning away so stop by and see what’s up.
Drinks
Matcha White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
WHITE HOT COCOA- 4 1/2 cups whole or 2% milk
- 1 cup white chocolate
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- 120 grams warm water
- 12 grams premium matcha powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 to 3 tablespoons whole or 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- mini marshmallows
- matcha powder, to sprinkle on top
Instructions
- Prepare the White Hot Cocoa: In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, combine the milk, white chocolate, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and hot, but avoid boiling. Set aside.
- Make the Matcha: Add warm water into a mixing bowl. Sift the matcha powder on top to avoid clumps. Whisk all together until smooth and frothy, using a bamboo whisk or small electric whisk in an M or W motion.
- Assemble: Pour the white hot cocoa into serving cups, filling each about two-thirds of the way. Add a matcha shot on top, gently stirring to create a beautiful swirl.
- Top with Cream Foam or Marshmallows (Optional): For the cream foam, whisk heavy cream with a splash of milk, vanilla extract, and sugar until thick but not stiff; avoid overwhipping. Spoon a dollop of this soft foam over each drink and sift matcha powder on top. Alternatively, top with mini marshmallows and carefully toast them with a kitchen torch until golden brown for a toasty finish.
You Might Also Like
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS RECIPE?
HI, I’M HAJAR
Welcome to Moribyan! This is my blog where I love to share all my favorite recipes and lifestyle tips with you all. If I’m not cooking here, I’m either at Trader Joe’s, the gym, or eating a bagel.
LET’S CONNECT
Pin This Recipe
Wow!!! This was SO good!! Thank you. I saw your video on tik tok and had to try it. So happy I found your website and I will be making many more dishes you share!!! 🩷 much love to you!