Move over, traditional cocoa - there's a more unique flavor in town. Meet Ruby Hot Chocolate, the prettiest drink you've ever laid eyes on. With its alluring pink hue and irresistible fruity notes, this luxurious drink is perfect for cozy evenings by the fire.
I was going to wait until colder days to post this pink hot chocolate, but I was inspired by the 2023 release of the movie "Barbie". I figured, why not jump on the pink bandwagon now, while everyone is pink-obsessed?
Ruby hot chocolate is more than just a beverage; it's an experience that transcends ordinary hot cocoa. Don't get me wrong, give me the most chocolately hot chocolate, and I will never complain, but this one is a little dainty, a little sassy, and perfect for a girl's night in!
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What is ruby chocolate?
Ruby chocolate is a unique type of chocolate made with ruby cocoa beans. These beans have a naturally pink color, a slightly fruity flavor profile, and a milder taste similar to white chocolate. It's 100% real chocolate and does not contain any artificial flavors or pink coloring.
Why you will love this recipe
- It's easy to make
- Only 2 ingredients
- It's pink
- Date night approved
- Perfect for Valentine's Day, "Galentines" Day, or a girls night in
- Lovely served at a Mother's Day brunch
- It's naturally gluten-free
- Kid-friendly
What you will need
Only 2 ingredients. No really-you only need milk and ruby chocolate!
- Ruby chocolate- To my surprise, I was able to find ruby chocolate in my local grocery store. My go-to brand is Chocolove. However, you might have better luck purchasing online.
- Milk- I use 2% cow's milk, but you can use any milk want.
- Whipped cream and marshmallows- for topping
See the recipe card for quantities.
Equipment
You will need a small pot, a whisk, and a mug to make this ruby hot chocolate.
Step by step
Below is a quick visual on how to make ruby pink hot chocolate.
Begin by chopping the chocolate in chunks (if using bar chocolate). If you are using ruby chocolate wafers or chips, you can leave them as is.
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until hot, but not boiling. Add the chocolate and whisk until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the hot chocolate into a mug.
Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or additional ruby chocolate shavings if using. Serve immediately.
📝Tester's notes: Ruby chocolate is similar to semisweet chocolate in that it contains sugar. Because of that, I didn't find that the hot chocolate needed additional sugar. If you like your cocoa super sweet, feel free to add sugar or additional ruby chocolate.
Substitutions and variations
- Traditional Hot Chocolate: If you're looking for a classic hot chocolate, you can use regular cocoa powder or high-quality dark chocolate to make a rich and creamy hot chocolate.
- White Hot Chocolate: For a creamy and sweet option, you can make white hot chocolate using white chocolate chips or bars. It won't have the same pink color, but it will still be delicious.
- While it won't exactly replicate the flavor of ruby chocolate, you can experiment with adding beetroot juice or beetroot powder to your hot chocolate for a natural pink hue and a slightly earthy flavor.
- You can substitute any milk you want.
Garnishes for ruby hot cocoa
- Whipped Cream: Top your drink with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
- Cocoa Powder Dusting: Dust a sprinkle of cocoa powder over the top for an elegant touch.
- Chocolate Shavings or Curls: Use a vegetable peeler to create delicate chocolate shavings or curls from a bar of high-quality dark, milk, or white chocolate to serve on top.
- Edible Flowers: Place a small edible flower, such as a pansy or a rose petal, on the surface of your hot chocolate for an elegant and natural touch.
- Fruit Slices: Thin slices of fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or citrus can add a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Marshmallows: Opt for mini marshmallows or flavored marshmallows that match the flavor profile of your ruby hot chocolate.
Top tip
When heating the milk, be sure not to boil it. Boiling the milk will cause the chocolate to seize up. You want it just hot enough to melt the chocolate.
FAQ
Ruby chocolate tastes sweet and tart. It has many similarities to white chocolate in terms of texture and creaminess. However, unlike white chocolate, it has a slightly sour and fruity taste. Some describe it as having strawberry or raspberry notes.
Ruby chocolate got its name after chocolate experts discovered that certain unfermented cacao beans from Brazil, Ecuador, and the Ivory Coast have a naturally occurring pink hue.
These unfermented cocoa beans are treated with citric acid to maintain their bright color.
Love pink food?
Me too! Give some of these pink colored favorites a try:
Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear about it! Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card. If you snap a photo of your creation, don't forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter.
📖Recipe
Ruby Hot Chocolate
Equipment
- small saucepan
- whisk
Ingredients
- 1 cup (8 oz.) milk
- ⅓ cup (1.6 oz.) chopped ruby chocolate, plus more for topping (optional) if using Chocolove, ½ full bar
- whipped cream, marshmallows for serving optional
Instructions
- Begin by chopping the chocolate in chunks (if using bar chocolate). If you are using ruby chocolate wafers or chips, you can leave them as is.⅓ cup (1.6 oz.) chopped ruby chocolate, plus more for topping (optional)
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until hot, but not boiling. Add the chocolate and whisk until completely melted and smooth.1 cup (8 oz.) milk
- Pour into a mug and garnish with additional ruby chocolate, fresh whipped cream, and marshmallows, if using. Serve immediately.whipped cream, marshmallows for serving
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.
Thanks for brunching! Let me know what you think: