Judy’s Hot Cocoa Recipe from The Santa Clause

How to Make Judy’s Famous Hot Cocoa from The Santa Clause

If you grew up watching the 1994 holiday classic The Santa Clause, you’ve probably spent decades wondering what Judy the Elf’s hot cocoa actually tastes like. It looked so rich, so velvety, and so incredibly comforting that a standard packet of Swiss Miss just never seemed to measure up.

As Judy tells Scott Calvin, the secret took her 1,200 years to get right. Luckily, it’ll only take you about 25 minutes. The key to this “perfected” recipe is that it’s not too hot, has extra chocolate, and is shaken, not stirred.

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Judy’s “Perfected” Hot Chocolate

• Prep time: 10 mins
• Cook time: 15 mins
• Yields: 2–4 servings

The Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Whole Milk
• ½ cup Heavy Cream (Essential for that rich, magical texture!)
• ½ cup High-quality Chocolate Chips (Milk chocolate for the classic sweetness, or semi-sweet for more depth)
• 1 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (For extra chocolatey richness)
• ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 pinch Salt (This makes the chocolate flavor pop!)
• Optional: Whipped cream, marshmallows, or shaved chocolate for garnish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Simmer: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture until it is just beginning to steam, but do not let it boil.
2. Melt: Whisk in your chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and the pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is perfectly smooth.
3. Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract for that final touch of warmth.
4. The Judy Secret (Cool & Shake): Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Remember the rule: “Not too hot!” Pour the mixture into a thermos or a cocktail shaker. Safety Note: If using a shaker, be careful of the pressure that builds up with warm liquids—hold the lid down tight!
5. Shake It: Shake vigorously for about 30–60 seconds. This aerates the chocolate, making it frothy, light, and velvety—exactly like the movie version.
6. Serve: Pour into your favorite mug. If you really want to be authentic, serve it in a silver cup!

If you want to replicate the exact vibe of the North Pole, offer the mug to a friend or family member and say: “I think you’re gonna like this. I perfected it!” It pairs perfectly with a viewing of the movie and a warm blanket. Just don’t forget to put on your pajamas—the ones with the little feet in them!

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