During the holidays, I like to make things extra special for my family and any guests that we might be hosting for a dinner or even a long weekend. I happened to serve this hot chocolate dip when my kids had some neighborhood friends over to the house and this delicious dessert was quickly devoured. Right then, I knew I had to share this delicious hot chocolate dip with you!

This super easy recipe is one of my favorite things and reminds me so much of a cup of hot chocolate. The best part is that it only takes a few minutes to come together and is actually a no bake dessert dip. While this recipe is absolutely perfect to serve anytime during the holiday season at any of your holiday parties or holiday gatherings, it’s also fun to surprise your family and serve this yummy dip on one of your family movie nights.

Cleaner Ingredients

I saw several variations of this easy hot chocolate dip recipe that were loaded with corn syrup and heavy whipping cream. As you know, all of my recipes are gluten free and I try to make them dairy free when solid alternatives are available. By swapping out the heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free version of Cool Whip, this creamy dip still delivers all the flavors of hot cocoa and the end result is a tasty dessert dip your friends and family are sure to love!

Topping Suggestions

My favorite way to serve this easy hot chocolate dip recipe is by adding chocolate sprinkles, chocolate shavings or white chocolate chips, adding in mini marshmallows or marshmallow bits, and sprinkling on crushed peppermint candies. I always think it’s nice when the topping to any recipe tells you what is actually inside, and I believe those toppings do just that. Or mix it up and top the finished dip with toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or a swirl of dairy-free whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

The serving options are limitless, so get as creative as you like. I think the best way to serve this yummy dip is with a combo of fresh fruit like strawberries or grapes, gluten-free graham crackers and pretzels. However, because there are so many fun serving options, I’ve provided a few more personal favorites for inspiration: Oreos, gingerbread men, sugar cookies, vanilla wafers, animal crackers, chocolate chip cookies or any of your favorite cookies. Just be sure to choose the gluten-free varieties, if needed. Whatever you decide to serve on the side, you are going to love the hot chocolate flavor in this easy dessert. You can serve this dip straight out of the refrigerator, if you are making it in advance. Or you can serve at room temperature.

Storage

If you have any leftover dip, the best way to store it is in an airtight container, or any kind of sealed container. It will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also store any leftover hot chocolate dip by simply wrapping it in plastic wrap.

Customize this Hot Cocoa Recipe

With just 3 simple ingredients, it’s so fun to use this as a blank canvas to customize flavors. Mix in 1/2 cup of peanut butter for that classic chocolate and peanut butter combo. You can even mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate hazelnut spread. For a mint-flavored hot cocoa dip, a little bit of peppermint extract would be a great addition. Just a teaspoon or two is all you need.

What you need to make hot cocoa dip

Whipped Topping – I used So Delicious whipped topping in this recipe to keep it dairy free, but you can use Cool whip or whipped topping your family enjoys.
Marshmallow cream – Toonie Moonies is my go-to marshmallow cream for this recipe. Many similar recipes call for cream cheese, but I use the marshmallow creme instead to make this sweet dip taste more like hot cocoa.
Hot Cocoa Mix – You can use any type of hot cocoa to suit your dietary needs. For this recipe, I used a Swiss Miss dairy-free hot chocolate packet.

Optional Toppings:

Mini Marshmallows – I used Dandies vegan marshmallows, but you can use any kind of marshmallows to suit your dietary needs.
Crushed Candy Canes – I used Yum Earth brand as they are dye-free. Traders Joes, Sprouts and Whole Foods usually sell dye-free candy canes this time of year.
Mini Chocolate Chips – My favorite brand is Enjoy Life, but you can use any type of chocolate chips to suit your dietary needs. Dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips are great options.