Introduction

This Hot Cocoa Dip is a deliciously creamy and festive treat that’s perfect for chilly nights or holiday gatherings. Combining the flavors of classic hot cocoa with marshmallows and chocolate chips, it’s ideal for dipping cookies, fruit, or pretzels.

A white bowl filled with a thick, creamy light brown mousse, spread evenly to the edges with a smooth texture on top. The mousse is decorated with small white mini marshmallows around the rim and scattered throughout. There are red, green, and white thin sprinkles spread on the mousse along with tiny dark brown chocolate chips. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, surrounded by fresh strawberries and yellow wafer sticks in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup dry hot cocoa mix (any brand, any flavor)
½ cup cold heavy whipping cream
1 7-ounce jar marshmallow creme
1 8-ounce tub Cool Whip (defrosted)
1 cup mini marshmallows
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Holiday sprinkles of choice
Belgian butter waffle cookies, graham crackers, rolled wafers, fresh strawberries, pretzel crisps (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup dry hot cocoa mix and ½ cup cold heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, mix on low speed for 15 to 20 seconds, then increase to medium speed. Continue until fully combined, then set the mixer aside.
Step 2: Add 1 jar (7 ounces) of marshmallow creme to the bowl. Gently fold it into the cocoa mixture using a silicone spatula until just incorporated.
Step 3: Add 1 tub (8 ounces) of defrosted Cool Whip. Gently fold the Cool Whip into the mixture until just combined.
Step 4: Fold in 1 cup mini marshmallows and ¼ cup mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dip.
Step 5: If serving immediately, transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top with holiday sprinkles, extra mini marshmallows, and mini chocolate chips as desired.
Step 6: To make in advance, place the dip mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, remove from the fridge and let soften at room temperature. Transfer to a serving bowl and add toppings as desired.
Step 7: Serve immediately with Belgian butter waffle cookies, graham crackers, rolled wafers, fresh strawberries, and pretzel crisps for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use a chocolate-flavored hot cocoa mix or add a pinch of cinnamon to the base mixture.
Try swapping mini marshmallows for regular-sized ones chopped into smaller pieces if mini marshmallows aren’t available.
You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
Add a splash of peppermint extract for a festive twist during the holidays.

Storage

Store the Hot Cocoa Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before serving, allow the dip to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften, then give it a gentle stir. Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with thick, light brown chocolate dip that has a creamy texture. The dip is topped with small white mini marshmallows, tiny dark chocolate chips scattered around, and colorful sprinkles in red, green, and white spread evenly on top. A golden waffle cookie is dipped into the creamy mixture with a woman's hand holding it at the top left corner of the bowl. Around the bowl on a white marbled surface are fresh red strawberries and some green pine leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream. Just make sure it’s well chilled and lightly whipped before folding into the mixture for best results.

What can I use if I don’t have mini marshmallows or mini chocolate chips?

If mini marshmallows aren’t available, chop larger marshmallows into small pieces. For chocolate chips, you can chop regular chocolate bars into small chunks or use chocolate sprinkles as a substitute.