Dalgona Cocoa {Whipped Hot Chocolate}
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This easy Dalgona Cocoa recipe is the perfect cold weather treat! With less caffeine than Dalgona coffee, your kids will LOVE joining in on this viral drink craze. Warm milk and whipped chocolate, what’s not to love?
After Dalgona Coffee took the world by storm this past year, I had a light bulb moment and wondered if I could make a cocoa version. Not everyone loves coffee and of course kids don’t need to start that habit too early.

We’re sharing tips to help you get the best results with this recipe. If you don’t need the tips, scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and a printable recipe card.
So I went for it. And I must say I love Dalgona cocoa more than the coffee version!
Dalgona Cocoa is the perfect treat on cold winter nights, especially when paired with a plate of gingerbread blondies. It’s easy enough to make during the week. And it looks fancy enough to serve to guests.
By the way, if you are a coffee lover, you have to try my Homemade Cold Brew Recipe. It’s SO good and convenient, too.
What is Dalgona Cocoa?
It’s a whipped chocolate version of the Dalgona coffee recipe that went viral after a Korean actor showed how to make it on social media. It’s been featured everywhere! Restaurants are serving it, it has gone viral on Tik-Tok, and has become the latest craze.
What You Need To Make the BEST Dalgona Cocoa Recipe
Chocolate mix – We are using hot cocoa mix but you can also use cocoa powder or Nesquick powder. You’ll want to add an equal amount of sugar if you use cocoa powder.
Heavy Cream – You can find this by the half and half in the dairy section at your local grocery store
Milk – Feel free to use white or chocolate milk, both work well.
Kitchen Tools Needed:
Mixer – You’ll need a stand or hand mixer to make this recipe. There’s no way around it – it’s extremely difficult to stir long enough to get the “whipped” consistency. You may be able to, but it’s a workout that takes a long time. So just get your mixer out, ok?
Mixing bowl – medium size
Medium sauce pan – to heat the milk
Optional Toppings
Dress up your cocoa by adding festive toppings. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Mini Marshmallows
- Chocolate Jimmies
- Chocolate Shavings
- Mini Chocolate Chips
- Chopped chocolate mints
- Sprinkles
- Whipped Cream
Get the complete ingredients & directions in the recipe card below.
Variations of Dalgona Cocoa
Make a cold version by substituting chilled milk for the warm milk.
For an adults-only beverage, add a splash of Kahlua or Bailey’s Irish Cream for the perfect after dinner treat.
Make a knock-off mocha latte by substituting coffee for the milk.
Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal comfort flavor.
Can You Make This Ahead of Time?
I haven’t tried storing it but I assume the whipped chocolate would start to break down after being refrigerated. But if you decide to try it, let me know.
I’ve seen other dalgona recipes where they say it’s okay to store for later but those recipes use different ingredients than my version.
How To Use Coffee Instead
If you want more of a latte option and need that extra boost of caffeine (moms I’m talking to you!) swap out the milk for coffee. Hot or cold coffee will work so you can enjoy this treat year round.
Can You Serve Dalgona Cocoa Cold?
Actually, yes! Simply follow the instructions in the recipe card below but don’t heat the milk. This makes a tasty chilled chocolate milk version.
More Easy Festive and Kid Friendly Recipes:
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Dalgona Cocoa (Whipped Hot Chocolate)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dry hot chocolate mix
- 5 tablespoons heavy cream, cold
- 3 cups 2% milk, white or chocolate
Serving Options
- Mini Marshmallows
- Chocolate Jimmies
- Chocolate Shavings
- Mini Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the hot chocolate mix and heavy cream. Using a hand mixer, beat until stiff peaks and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Heat milk in a saucepan or in a microwave-safe container, until hot. Pour into mugs.
- Top with dollops of whipped chocolate.
- Garnish as desired.
Notes
- Make with chilled milk for a cold beverage.
- Substitute hot or cold coffee for milk to make a mocha latte.
- For an adults-only beverage, add a splash of Kahlua or Bailey’s Irish Cream.
- Optional toppings are not included in Nutritional Information calculation.
Nutritional Estimate
Nutritional information is provided as a reference, using an online calculator. We recommend verifying the information independently for accuracy.
Thank you so much for sharing this recipe! I really need this.
I do have a question though. Why do we need to use 2% milk instead of normal milk? Is it because of the heavy cream?
We prefer 2% milk when making hot chocolate but you can use whatever milk you prefer.