Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake Recipe – Secret Steps Revealed

Whataburger is a well-known fast-food restaurant chain in the United States. Their iconic Mexican hot chocolate shake is one of my favorite spicy chocolate milkshakes ever.

So, today I made this Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake recipe at home, and it turned out amazing.

 

How to Make Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake

Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake is that sweet and spicy chocolate milkshake that will give you a deep chocolate taste with little heat from chili powder.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk: I personally like Whole milk as its best for richness, you can also use other vegan milk for the dairy-free version like the almond milk and oat milk.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: I recommend you use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for the best result, but you can also use others if available.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: It will bring warmth and enhance the flavor of your Mexican hot chocolate shake.
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder: This is what makes Mexican chocolate shakes different from others.
• Whipped cream (for topping): It will give classic finish to your Whataburger shake.
• Extra cinnamon (for garnish): This final dusting of cinnamon will tie all flavors together.

Pro Tip: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Especially Cocoa powder, spicy, and vanilla ice cream will play a role.

Instructions:

1. Blend the Base: In a high-speed blender, combine 2 cups of vanilla ice cream or chocolate ice cream with 1 cup of milk. Then, blend it at medium speed until you achieve a properly smooth mixture. 
2. Add the Flavors: Once the mixture is ready, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder. Then, blend it again to mix all these ingredients.
3. Adjust the Consistency: If you see it’s thick, then add some milk and blend it again. If it is thin, then add one more scoop of vanilla ice cream until you get the thickness you want. 
4. Serve and Garnish: Take a tall glass, pour your Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate shake into it, and top it with the whipped cream. And garnish it with cinnamon dusting for visual appeal. And enjoy.

Pro Tip: For extra thicknesses, you can freeze milk into ice cubes and then use them instead of liquid milk. 

Ingredient Substitutes

• Dairy-Free Alternatives: You can swap whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. And replace vanilla ice cream with dairy-free coconut or cashew-based ice cream to keep the shake plant-based.
• Sugar-Free or Lower-Sugar Options: Use unsweetened cocoa powder to avoid extra sugar. Instead of using sugar-laden vanilla ice cream, use sugar-free ice cream and natural sweeteners like monk fruit and stevia.
• Adjusting the Spice Level: Reduce chili powder, and for an extra kick, add cayenne pepper or even smoked paprika. They will give your drink a spicy but more complex flavor.

Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to try different combinations. Maybe you will discover a new variation, .

 

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 8g

Pro Tip: If you want to reduce calories and make a healthy Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake, then instead of using whole milk, use low-fat milk and sugar-free cocoa powder.

Besides this, you can also reduce the portion size, especially when you are serving it with something else.

 

What to Serve with Whataburger Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake

Sweet Treats:

• Mexican chocolate dipping sauce for an authentic combo.
• Bakery-Style Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Strawberry Banana Chocolate Protein Smoothie to enjoy a complete chocolate treat experience.

Savory Snacks:

If you want to have a sweet and salty combination, then you need to try Spicy Nachos loaded with Melted Cheese, Jalapenos, and Salsa. 

Besides this, you can also try Mini Beef, Bean Tacos, Loaded Potato Skins, or Chicken Empanadas, as it’s a delicious, flaky, and savory option.

Breakfast or Brunch Pairings:

• Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
• French Toast Sticks
• Breakfast Burritos (It’s made with eggs, sausage, and cheese, so it is a healthy breakfast).
• Chocolate-filled croissants
• Banana Bread Slices.

 

How to Customize Your Shake

Here are some variations that you can try with Whataburger’s Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake Recipe.

• Mocha Twist: You just have to add some espresso for a caffeinated kick.
• Rich and Dark: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a deeper flavor.
• Extra Spice: Add some cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Nutty Flavor: You can blend a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter.

 

Why This Recipe Beats Whataburger’s Version

There are four reasons why I consider that a homemade version of this hot chocolate shake is better than what you get at the shop.

• Control: You can adjust the sweetness and spice level to suit your taste.
• Freshness: When you make shakes at home, it’ll be fresh and free from preservatives.
• Customization: You can add your favorite ingredients, like plant-based milk or natural sugar.
• No Seasonal Limits: Enjoy this treat anytime, not just when Whataburger has it on its menu.

 

Final Thoughts

It was easy to make Copycat Whataburger’s Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake recipe.

This homemade Mexican hot chocolate shake recipe is more customizable and healthy than what you get at the restaurant. Plus, it’s cheaper. 

You can make this sweet treat when you want to impress guests, friends, or family members.

Plus, you can also serve it with cinnamon roll pancakes, bean tacos, chocolate chip cookies, brownies, etc., or try any other things that you personally like.

However, whatever you try, just don’t forget to share your experience with me in the comment section.

 

Can I make this shake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. But I recommend you make it when you want to drink. 

Because Whataburger Mexican hot chocolate tastes better when it is fresh.

How do I store leftovers?

You can pour leftovers into an air-tight container or glass jar and keep them in the freezer. 

When you are ready, then blend it again. Once it brings back its creamy texture, you can enjoy it.

Can I use a blender instead of a milkshake machine?

Yes, you can use a blender, but make sure it’s a high-speed blender, as it works well to create a thick, creamy hot chocolate shake.

Is this recipe gluten-free or vegan-friendly?

Yes, Whataburger’s Mexican Hot Chocolate Drink is gluten-free if you make sure that all ingredients that you are using are labeled gluten-free. 

You can use dairy-free ice cream or plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut.