Save to Pinterest Last summer during a brutal heatwave, my Australian roommate showed me this brilliant trick. She took chocolate malt powder meant for hot cocoa and turned it into the most refreshing iced drink I had ever tasted. Now it is my go-to when I need chocolate comfort without the heaviness of hot chocolate. The secret is dissolving the powder in a tiny bit of hot water first, which creates this concentrated chocolate syrup that mixes perfectly with cold milk.
I made these for my book club meeting on a sweltering Tuesday evening and everyone demanded the recipe. One friend admitted she drank three in a row because they were so perfectly balanced between chocolatey and refreshing. Now they request them every time we meet, regardless of the weather.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Milo powder: This chocolate malt powder is the heart of the drink and dissolves beautifully when prepared correctly
- 60 ml hot water: Just enough hot water to create a smooth concentrated chocolate base
- 120 ml cold milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest results but any milk works perfectly fine
- Ice cubes: As many as you like to make it refreshingly cold
- Sugar or sweetener: Only if you prefer it sweeter since Milo is already lightly sweetened
Instructions
- Make the chocolate base:
- Whisk the Milo powder with hot water in a small bowl until completely smooth and dissolved, about 30 seconds.
- Sweeten if desired:
- Taste the mixture and add sugar or sweetener now if you like, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Prep your glass:
- Fill a tall glass with plenty of ice cubes, filling it about halfway to two-thirds full.
- Add the chocolate:
- Pour the Milo mixture over the ice and watch it swirl and create beautiful patterns.
- Finish with milk:
- Pour in the cold milk slowly and give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
- Serve immediately:
- Pop in a straw and enjoy while it is still ice cold.
Save to Pinterest This drink became such a ritual during finals week that my roommates and I would take turns making batches for each other. There was something so comforting about that chocolate aroma wafting through the apartment, even in the middle of summer. It felt like a tiny act of self-care during a stressful time.
Making It Extra Creamy
Whole milk naturally gives the richest results, but I have discovered that adding a splash of coconut cream creates the most velvety texture imaginable. Another trick is using sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk, though this makes it quite sweet so you can skip the extra sugar.
Flavor Variations
Sometimes I add a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor, especially on days when I want something more sophisticated. A drop of vanilla extract transforms it into something reminiscent of a chocolate milkshake. You can also experiment with different milk alternatives, though oat milk tends to give the creamiest plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
This drink looks beautiful in a clear glass so you can see the chocolate and milk swirling together. For a special occasion, top it with whipped cream and an extra dusting of Milo powder. It also pairs wonderfully with buttery cookies or a slice of banana bread for an afternoon snack.
- Chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before assembling
- Use a straw to sip from the bottom for the most balanced flavor
- Double the recipe and store the chocolate base in the fridge for up to two days
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about a chocolate drink that cools you down instead of warming you up. Hope this brings you as many refreshing moments as it has brought me.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this with plant-based milk?
Absolutely. Oat, almond, and soy milk all work beautifully in this preparation. Plant-based options create a slightly lighter texture while maintaining the chocolate flavor profile.
- → Why dissolve Milo in hot water first?
The hot water helps break down the Milo powder completely, preventing clumps when combined with cold milk. This ensures a smooth, consistent texture throughout your beverage.
- → How can I make this creamier?
Use whole milk instead of low-fat options, or add a splash of condensed milk for extra richness. A dollop of whipped cream on top also adds luxurious texture.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
The Milo mixture can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add ice and cold milk when ready to serve for the freshest taste experience.
- → Is this suitable for children?
Yes, this is family-friendly. Adjust sweetness by reducing or omitting added sugar, as Milo itself contains natural sweetness from malt and chocolate.
- → What's the best glass size?
A tall 12-16 ounce glass works perfectly, allowing room for ice, the Milo mixture, and milk while leaving space for stirring without overflow.