Beverages
Transforming simple chocolate milk into a decadent dessert drink takes just 5 minutes—and all you need is Nutella to elevate it. This recipe blends creamy milk with the rich, nutty-sweet flavor of Nutella for a velvety drink that tastes like dessert in every sip.
I created this after craving something indulgent but quick, and it’s become a go-to treat for both adults and kids.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You’ll need just two core ingredients—milk and Nutella—but optional additions like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can take it to the next level.
The result is a smooth, creamy drink with layers of chocolatey flavor that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the effort of baking.
Whether you enjoy it chilled over ice for a refreshing treat or serve it as a float with whipped cream, this drink delivers restaurant-quality indulgence in minutes.
The Nutella swirls create a marbled effect that makes it visually appealing, while the balance of milk and Nutella ensures it’s rich but not overly sweet. Ready to indulge?
Pair it with cookies for a full dessert experience or enjoy it solo as a comforting treat. The best part? No special equipment is needed—just a blender or whisk and a few minutes of your time. Let’s make this decadent drink!
Ingredients for chocolate milk with nutella
Two core ingredients, endless indulgence. Just milk and Nutella transform into a velvety dessert drink.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Milk 🥛 | 2 cups | Cold for best blending |
| Nutella 🍫 | ½ cup | Original flavor preferred |
| Heavy Whipping Cream 🥛 | ¼ cup | Optional for extra richness |
| Ice Cubes ❄️ | ½ cup | For chilled version |
| Vanilla Extract 🌸 | ½ tsp | Optional for depth |
| Cinnamon 🌿 | ¼ tsp | Ground, optional garnish |
| Chocolate Shavings 🍫 | 2 tbsp | Optional garnish |
| Whipped Cream 🍦 | ¼ cup | Optional topping |
Nutella is the star here—Ferrero Rocher or the classic jarred version both work, but avoid knockoffs. The milk should be whole milk for that creamy texture (skim won't cut it). I grab mine from Trader Joe's because their Nutella is always fresh and their milk is ultra-cold. If you're using vanilla extract, grab the pure, alcohol-free kind—it makes a difference. For the chocolate shavings, a microplane on a chocolate bar works perfectly if you're feeling fancy.
No Nutella? Peanut butter plus cocoa powder gets you close—mix 2 tbsp peanut butter with 1 tbsp cocoa powder. Out of milk? Cream cheese blended with a splash of water works in a pinch. The whipped cream topping can be store-bought, but homemade with powdered sugar tastes fresher. For the ice cubes, freeze milk cubes if you want the creamiest texture—they blend right in without watering it down. Want it even richer? Swap half the milk for chilled coffee (trust me on this).
This drink stays fresh for 3 days in the fridge, but it's best enjoyed immediately. I like to make a big batch and keep it in a pitcher with a lid—stir before each serving. For a float, add vanilla ice cream right before serving. The whipped cream and chocolate shavings are best added fresh, but you can store them separately in the fridge for up to 1 week. Pro tip: Freeze any leftovers in ice cube trays for 1 month—just add a splash of milk when ready to use.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- I’ll be real: Nutella isn’t cheap, but a little goes a long way here. Stretch it by thinning it with milk instead of using it straight, and you’ll get multiple servings without breaking the bank. Plus, the heavy cream makes it feel decadent for half the cost of store-bought chocolate milkshakes.
- Two-Ingredient Magic: I swear, this is one of those recipes where you question why you ever complicate things. Just warm the milk, stir in Nutella, and—boom—you’ve got a dessert that tastes like a hug from a Swiss chocolatier. No measuring cups, no fancy techniques, just spoon and sip.
- Velvet-Smooth Indulgence: That first sip? Pure bliss. The Nutella’s rich cocoa melts into the warm milk while the heavy cream adds a velvety texture that feels like a treat, not a chore. Add a dash of vanilla, and suddenly, you’re drinking a grown-up version of childhood happiness.
- Weeknight Hero: Honestly, this is my go-to when I’m too tired to bake but still crave something sweet. It’s the perfect after-dinner pick-me-up or a quick breakfast when I’m running late—no one even notices it’s not a fancy café drink. (Yes, even on a Tuesday night.)
Step-by-step instructions for chocolate milk with Nutella
Here's how to create a decadent, creamy Nutella chocolate milk in minutes—no fancy equipment needed.
Combine Cold Milk and Nutella
Pour the 2 cups of cold whole milk into a blender. Add the 0.5 cup of Nutella and the 0.25 cup of heavy whipping cream (if using). The cold milk is key—it prevents the Nutella from melting into a clumpy mess. If you're making this for a chilled version, add the 0.5 cup of ice cubes now for an extra-cold drink.
Blend on low speed for 10 seconds to break up the Nutella, then increase to high for 20-30 seconds until completely smooth. You want a velvety texture with no visible streaks of Nutella. If it looks too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of cold milk and blend again until smooth. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon like a thick milkshake.
Sweeten and Flavor
Add the 0.5 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 0.25 teaspoon of cinnamon to the blender. These ingredients enhance the Nutella flavor without overpowering it. The vanilla adds depth, while the cinnamon gives a warm, cozy touch. Blend for another 10 seconds just to incorporate these flavors evenly.
Taste the mixture—this is your chance to adjust the sweetness. If it needs more sugar, add 1-2 teaspoons of granulated sugar (though the Nutella is already rich). If it's too thick, thin it with a splash more cold milk. The perfect consistency should be like a thick milkshake but still pourable.
Serve Immediately for Best Texture
Pour the chocolate milk into 4 chilled glasses (about ½ cup each). The cold glasses help keep the drink from warming up too quickly. If you're using the 2 tablespoons of chocolate shavings, sprinkle them over the top of each glass now. They’ll melt slightly but add a beautiful garnish and extra chocolate flavor.
For an extra-luxurious touch, top each serving with 0.25 cup of whipped cream. Dollop it on top and gently swirl it into the milk with a spoon for a marbled effect. Serve immediately—this drink is best enjoyed fresh while the Nutella is still suspended smoothly in the milk. The texture will start to separate if left sitting too long.
Optional Enhancements (If You're Feeling Fancy)
If you want to take this to the next level, consider adding a crushed chocolate cookie or a drizzle of melted Nutella on top for garnish. The cookie adds a crunchy contrast to the smooth milk, while the extra Nutella drizzle makes it look like a dessert drink. Just be sure to serve it right away so the garnishes stay fresh.
For a frothy version, blend the milk and Nutella again briefly after pouring it into glasses. This creates a lighter, airier texture that’s perfect for sipping through a straw. Either way, this drink is a crowd-pleaser—rich, creamy, and satisfyingly indulgent without requiring any baking or cooking.
Pro Tips For Making Chocolate Milk With Nutella
- Chill the Milk First: Pour your whole milk into the fridge for at least 30 minutes before mixing—cold milk blends smoother with Nutella and keeps your drink from getting too thin. I learned this the hard way after watching my first batch turn into a soupy mess when I skipped it.
- Whisk the Nutella: Don’t just dump Nutella in—whisk it vigorously into the milk for 20-30 seconds to break up clumps. A fork works, but a whisk ensures every sip is silky, not grainy. (Yes, even if you’re impatient like me.)
- Ice Cubes Last: Add heavy whipping cream and vanilla first, then drop in ice cubes after stirring—this prevents the drink from getting watered down too fast. I used to add ice first, and half my glass would turn into diluted milk by the time I finished.
- Skip the Store-Bought Vanilla: A splash of pure vanilla extract (½ tsp) brightens the Nutella flavor way more than imitation. It’s a tiny upgrade, but it makes the difference between "okay" and "wow." (Your future self will notice.)
Best sauces and condiments for these flavors
Nutella Swirl Magic
The secret to that marbled Nutella effect is blending the Nutella with milk at low speed first for 10 seconds to emulsify it properly. I use a Vitamix 5200 because its powerful motor ensures no lumps remain.
For a smoother finish, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve if you notice any gritty bits. The key is patience—rushing the blending can create streaks. 💫
Coffee Infusion Twist
Swap half the milk for chilled brewed coffee (about 1 cup) to create a mocha-inspired version. I recommend using Starbucks Pike Place Roast for its balanced bitterness. The coffee enhances the Nutella's chocolate notes while adding a subtle depth.
For extra richness, add 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules directly to the blender before mixing. This works best with whole milk for creaminess.
Spiced Variations
Add ½ teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha kick, or ¼ teaspoon of cardamom for a Middle Eastern twist. I love a pinch of sea salt (about ⅛ teaspoon) to balance the sweetness—it’s a trick I learned from dessert chefs.
For warmth, a ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg adds complexity. Always taste as you go and adjust to preference.
Dairy-Free Adaptations
Use full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight) as a base for a dairy-free version. Blend 2 cups coconut milk with ½ cup Nutella and 2 tablespoons coconut cream for thickness.
For extra richness, add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder. The texture will be slightly lighter but still creamy. Serve with dairy-free whipped cream (like So Delicious brand) on top.
Topping Ideas
For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle crushed Oreos or toasted hazelnuts (from the Nutella) on top. I also love a drizzle of caramel sauce (about 1 teaspoon per glass) for a sweet-salty balance.
For a boozy twist, add ½ teaspoon of vanilla liqueur (like Godiva) to the blender before serving. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a cozy touch.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep the base mixture ahead by blending all ingredients (except toppings) and storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving.
For a frozen version, blend the mixture with ½ cup ice cubes and freeze in silicone molds. Pop out and serve in a glass with a straw for a slushie-style treat. Thaw for 5 minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this drink without a blender?
Yes! Whisk the 2 cups of cold milk and 0.5 cup of Nutella together in a bowl until smooth. For extra creaminess, add 0.25 cup of heavy whipping cream and whisk vigorously. It won't be as perfectly blended, but you'll still get that rich Nutella flavor.
How can I make this drink thicker or thinner?
For a thicker texture, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream and blend again. If it's too thick, thin it with 1-2 tablespoons of cold milk at a time. The ideal consistency is like a thick milkshake—smooth but still pourable.
Can I use other types of milk besides whole milk?
Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter version. Avoid skim milk—it won't blend smoothly with Nutella. For a dairy-free option, try full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight) or oat milk with 1 tablespoon of coconut cream for thickness.
Will this drink separate if left sitting?
Yes, the Nutella will naturally separate after about 30 minutes. Stir well before serving, or enjoy it immediately for the best texture. For a frothy version, blend again briefly before drinking. The separation is normal—it’s just the Nutella rising to the top!
Can I add alcohol to this drink?
Try adding ½ teaspoon of vanilla liqueur, 1 tablespoon of Kahlúa, or even a splash of dark rum (about 1 teaspoon) for an adult twist. Blend it in with the other ingredients and adjust sweetness as needed. Garnish with whipped cream for a festive touch.