Indulge in the Velvety Pink Delight: The Ultimate Ruby Hot Chocolate Recipe for a Luxurious Treat

Move over, traditional cocoa; a more unique and visually stunning flavor has arrived. Prepare to meet Ruby Hot Chocolate, arguably the prettiest drink you’ll ever encounter. With its captivating pink hue, naturally derived from ruby cocoa beans, and its irresistibly intriguing fruity notes, this luxurious beverage is an absolute dream for cozy evenings by the fire, elegant brunches, or simply as a delightful pick-me-up.

While originally planning to unveil this vibrant pink hot chocolate closer to the colder months, the pop culture sensation of the 2023 “Barbie” movie provided the perfect inspiration. It became clear that there was no better time to embrace the current pink obsession and share this whimsical, yet sophisticated, drink with everyone seeking a touch of magic in their mug. It’s a delightful departure from the ordinary, promising both visual charm and an exciting flavor profile that will surely impress.

Ruby hot chocolate transcends the realm of ordinary hot cocoa; it’s an experience designed to delight the senses. Don’t misunderstand – a rich, deeply chocolatey hot chocolate is always welcome. However, this unique ruby variation offers something distinctly different: it’s a little dainty, a touch sassy, and absolutely perfect for a celebratory “Galentine’s” gathering, a romantic date night, or simply to treat yourself to something truly special.

What is Ruby Chocolate? Unveiling the Fourth Type of Chocolate

Ruby chocolate is an extraordinary and relatively new type of chocolate, often hailed as the “fourth type” alongside dark, milk, and white chocolate. Its distinctiveness comes from the specific processing of ruby cocoa beans, which are naturally found in various regions around the world, including Brazil, Ecuador, and the Ivory Coast. These special beans inherently possess a vibrant pink color and a unique, slightly fruity and tart flavor profile.

Unlike other pink confections, ruby chocolate is 100% real chocolate and famously contains no artificial flavors or pink coloring. Its appealing hue and taste are purely derived from the cocoa bean itself, through a specialized, natural fermentation and processing method developed by Barry Callebaut, a Belgian-Swiss cocoa company, and introduced to the world in 2017. The beans undergo a unique treatment, which often includes a citric acid process, to unlock and preserve their distinctive color and flavor. The taste is often described as sweet, with noticeable berry-like or sour fruit notes, and a creamy texture reminiscent of white chocolate, yet with a refreshing, tangy finish. It’s a truly captivating ingredient that adds both visual and gustatory intrigue to any dish or drink, making it a favorite for pastry chefs and home cooks looking to create something truly memorable.

Why You Will Absolutely Love This Ruby Hot Chocolate Recipe

This ruby hot chocolate recipe isn’t just a drink; it’s an invitation to a delightful experience. Here’s why it’s bound to become one of your new favorites:

• Effortlessly Simple to Make: Forget complicated steps or lengthy ingredient lists. This recipe is designed for ease, allowing you to whip up a gourmet beverage in minutes.
• Minimal Ingredients: You’ll only need two core ingredients to create this magical drink, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require extensive effort.
• Stunningly Pink: The naturally vibrant pink color of ruby chocolate makes this hot chocolate an absolute showstopper, perfect for captivating guests or brightening a dull day.
• Date Night Approved: Impress your special someone with this unique and romantic beverage. Its sophisticated flavor and alluring appearance make it ideal for a cozy night in.
• Perfect for Festive Occasions: Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a fun “Galentine’s” celebration with friends, a charming Mother’s Day brunch, or a festive holiday gathering, this drink fits every special moment.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: Enjoy this delicious treat without worry, as it’s naturally free from gluten, making it accessible for many dietary preferences.
• Kid-Friendly Charm: Kids will adore the fun pink color and sweet, fruity taste, making it a delightful option for family treats (just ensure no added alcohol).
• A Unique Flavor Journey: Step beyond traditional chocolate. The unique tart and fruity notes of ruby chocolate offer a refreshing twist that will awaken your palate.
• Luxurious Indulgence: Every sip feels like a luxurious treat, a moment of pure bliss and indulgence that transforms an ordinary day into something extraordinary.

What You Will Need: Just Two Core Ingredients and Simple Tools

You might be surprised by the simplicity of this recipe. You genuinely only need two primary ingredients to create this beautiful and delicious ruby hot chocolate! Gather your ingredients and equipment, and let’s get started.

• Ruby Chocolate: To my pleasant surprise, I was able to find high-quality ruby chocolate at my local specialty grocery store. My preferred brand is Chocolove, which offers a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness. However, if your local stores don’t stock it, you might have better luck purchasing ruby chocolate online in various forms, such as bars, callets, or chips. Opt for a good quality ruby chocolate as it significantly impacts the final flavor and texture of your drink.
• Milk: I typically use 2% cow’s milk for a creamy consistency that isn’t too heavy, but this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to use any type of milk you prefer. Whole milk will yield a richer, more decadent hot chocolate, while skim milk will result in a lighter version. For dairy-free options, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work wonderfully, each adding its own subtle flavor nuance.
• Whipped Cream and Marshmallows: (Optional, for topping) While the ruby hot chocolate is fantastic on its own, a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream or a handful of soft marshmallows elevate it to an even more indulgent level.

Refer to the recipe card below for precise quantities and measurements.

Essential Equipment for Making Ruby Hot Chocolate

You won’t need any fancy gadgets for this simple yet elegant recipe. The basic kitchen tools required are:

• A Small Pot or Saucepan: Essential for gently heating the milk without boiling it, ensuring even temperature distribution.
• A Whisk: Crucial for thoroughly melting the ruby chocolate into the milk, preventing lumps and creating a smooth, velvety consistency.
• A Mug: Of course, a beautiful mug to serve your magnificent ruby hot chocolate in!

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Ruby Pink Hot Chocolate

Creating this beautiful ruby pink hot chocolate is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a flawless and delicious result. Below is a quick visual guide to help you along the way.

Step 1: Prepare the Ruby Chocolate. If you are using a bar of ruby chocolate, begin by chopping it into small, uniform chunks. Smaller pieces will melt more quickly and evenly into the hot milk. If you are using convenient ruby chocolate wafers or chips, you can leave them as they are, as they are already designed for easy melting.

Step 2: Heat the Milk and Melt the Chocolate. In a small saucepan, gently heat your chosen milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Continue heating until the milk is hot and steaming, but critically, do not allow it to boil. Boiling milk can cause the chocolate to seize or burn. Once the milk is hot, remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the prepared ruby chocolate. Whisk continuously and vigorously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, creamy, and beautifully pink. Ensure there are no lumps remaining for a truly velvety finish.

Step 3: Serve and Garnish. Carefully pour the freshly made ruby hot chocolate into your chosen mug. Its vibrant pink color will immediately catch your eye. This is where you can get creative with your garnishes!

Step 4: Enjoy Immediately. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a handful of fluffy marshmallows, or even a sprinkle of additional ruby chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately while it’s wonderfully warm and aromatic. Every sip is a pure delight!

📝Tester’s Notes for Optimal Sweetness: Ruby chocolate, much like semisweet chocolate, contains sugar. Because of this natural sweetness, I generally found that this hot chocolate recipe didn’t require any additional sugar. The tartness of the ruby chocolate beautifully balances its sweetness. However, if you have a preference for a super sweet cocoa, or if you’re using a particularly tart ruby chocolate, feel free to add a little sugar to taste, or simply increase the amount of ruby chocolate used. A small drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add a delightful complexity to the sweetness.

Substitutions and Creative Variations for Your Pink Hot Chocolate

While the classic ruby hot chocolate is exquisite on its own, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or explore new flavor combinations. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Classic Hot Chocolate Experience: If you’re craving the comforting taste of a traditional hot chocolate, simply swap the ruby chocolate for good quality cocoa powder or high-percentage dark chocolate. Adjust sweetness to your liking for a rich and creamy classic.
• Decadent White Hot Chocolate: For a creamy, sweet, and mild alternative, create white hot chocolate using white chocolate chips or a chopped white chocolate bar. While it won’t have the signature pink color, it offers a wonderfully smooth and vanilla-infused flavor.
• Naturally Pink Alternatives (without Ruby Chocolate): If ruby chocolate is hard to find, or you want to experiment, you can achieve a natural pink hue by adding a small amount of beetroot juice or beetroot powder to your regular hot chocolate base. Start with a tiny amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired color and a subtle earthy flavor. Freeze-dried raspberry or strawberry powder can also lend a pink color and complementary fruity notes.
• Dairy and Non-Dairy Milk Options: As mentioned, any type of milk works here. Experiment with whole milk for maximum richness, skim milk for a lighter version, or plant-based milks like almond, oat, soy, or even coconut milk for different flavor undertones and creamy textures.
• Infused Flavors: Add a dash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a few drops of rose water to enhance the aroma and taste. For a spiced twist, a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a tiny amount of chili powder can add depth.
• Boozy Adult Version: For an indulgent adult beverage, consider adding a splash of raspberry liqueur, strawberry cream liqueur, or even a touch of vodka for a sophisticated cocktail-like treat.
• Citrus Zest: A tiny bit of orange or lemon zest grated over the top can brighten the fruity notes of the ruby chocolate.

Elegant Garnishes for Your Ruby Hot Cocoa

Elevate your ruby hot chocolate from simply delicious to truly magnificent with these appealing garnish ideas:

1. Fresh Whipped Cream: A classic for a reason! A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture and rich dairy flavor that beautifully complements the ruby chocolate.
2. Cocoa Powder Dusting: For an elegant and subtly contrasting touch, dust a light sprinkle of high-quality cocoa powder over the whipped cream or directly on the hot chocolate surface.
3. Chocolate Shavings or Curls: Use a vegetable peeler or grater to create delicate shavings or curls from a bar of ruby, white, dark, or milk chocolate. These add texture and an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
4. Edible Flowers: For a truly sophisticated and romantic presentation, place a small, food-safe edible flower, such as a pansy, viola, or a delicate rose petal, on top.
5. Fresh Fruit Slices or Berries: Thin slices of vibrant fruits like fresh strawberries, raspberries, or even a twist of citrus zest can add a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful pop of color that enhances the natural fruity notes of ruby chocolate.
6. Mini Marshmallows: A timeless favorite! Opt for mini marshmallows that melt delightfully into the warm drink, or try flavored marshmallows for an added layer of taste.
7. Sprinkles or Edible Glitter: For a festive or whimsical touch, especially if serving for a party or children, a sprinkle of pink or colorful edible glitter can make the drink sparkle.
8. Chocolate Syrup Drizzle: A swirl of white chocolate or dark chocolate syrup drizzled inside the mug before pouring, or over the whipped cream, adds an artistic touch and extra flavor.

Top Tip for the Perfect Ruby Hot Chocolate

When heating the milk, exercise caution and be sure not to bring it to a rolling boil. Boiling the milk can cause the delicate ruby chocolate to seize up, resulting in a grainy or clumpy texture. You want the milk to be just hot enough to melt the chocolate smoothly and evenly, typically when you see small bubbles forming around the edges of the saucepan and steam rising. Gentle heat is key to achieving a velvety, luxurious hot chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ruby Hot Chocolate

What does ruby chocolate taste like?

Ruby chocolate offers a wonderfully unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional chocolates. It is often described as having a sweet and tart taste, with distinct fruity notes reminiscent of berries like strawberries or raspberries, and sometimes a hint of sourness. In terms of texture and creaminess, it shares similarities with white chocolate, being smooth and melting beautifully on the tongue. However, its refreshing, tangy finish is unlike any other chocolate, making it a truly captivating experience for your taste buds.

Why is ruby chocolate pink?

The alluring pink color of ruby chocolate is entirely natural, a remarkable characteristic derived directly from specific ruby cocoa beans. These unfermented cocoa beans, primarily sourced from regions such as Brazil, Ecuador, and the Ivory Coast, possess naturally occurring pigments that give them their distinctive hue. Chocolate experts discovered a unique processing method that treats these beans with citric acid, which is crucial for unlocking and maintaining their bright, vibrant pink color without the need for any artificial dyes or colorings. This natural origin is a key factor in its appeal and sets it apart from other colored chocolates.

Is ruby chocolate healthy?

While ruby chocolate is a real chocolate and contains antioxidants from cocoa beans, it also contains sugar and fats, similar to other types of chocolate. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as a treat. The nutritional benefits are comparable to other chocolates, but it’s not considered a health food due to its sugar content. Always check the specific nutritional information on the packaging of the ruby chocolate you purchase.

Where can I buy ruby chocolate?

Ruby chocolate is becoming more widely available. You can often find it in specialty grocery stores, high-end chocolate shops, or gourmet food sections. Many brands also offer ruby chocolate bars, callets (small drops for melting), or chips online through major retailers or direct from chocolate manufacturers. Brands like Callebaut, Valrhona, and Chocolove are known for producing ruby chocolate products.

Love Pink Food and Drinks as Much as We Do?

Me too! The vibrant and cheerful color of pink adds a special touch to any culinary creation. If you’re enchanted by the charm of this ruby hot chocolate, you’ll definitely want to give some of these other pink-colored favorites a try from our collection:

• Whipped Strawberry Basil Butter
• Strawberry Mini Pies with Rose Glaze
• Plum Bellini Cocktail
• Sweet and Spicy Pickled Onions

Did you make this recipe? We would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card. If you capture a photo of your beautiful creation, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @brunchandbatter or use the hashtag #brunchandbatter. Your feedback and photos truly inspire us!

📖 Recipe: Ruby Hot Chocolate

Ruby Hot Chocolate

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 fireplace.

Average rating: 5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time: 2 mins

Cook Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 7 mins

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings: 1

Calories: 362 kcal

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Pour into a mug and garnish with additional ruby chocolate, fresh whipped cream, and marshmallows, if using. Serve immediately.

Nutrition*

Serving: 1 cup

Calories: 362 kcal

Carbohydrates: 34.5 g

Protein: 12 g

Fat: 20.5 g

Saturated Fat: 12.5 g

Cholesterol: 20 mg

Sodium: 160 mg

Potassium: 184 mg

Sugar: 32 g

Calcium: 400 mg

Iron: 0.5 mg

*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.

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