Description
This Rich Homemade Hot Chocolate recipe offers a creamy, indulgent chocolate beverage perfect for cozy winter days. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and melted chocolate, it delivers a perfectly smooth and velvety texture that is easy to prepare on the stovetop. Garnish with whipped cream or marshmallows for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly mixed to ensure no lumps and balanced flavor throughout.
- Add milk and cream: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to create a smooth, lump-free mixture that forms the base of the hot chocolate.
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently, heating the mixture until it is hot but not boiling to avoid scorching or separation.
- Melt the chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the hot mixture and continue stirring until the chocolate completely melts, resulting in a silky smooth texture.
- Finish with vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and aroma.
- Serve warm: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with optional whipped cream or marshmallows for an extra indulgent treat. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to create a lighter version of this hot chocolate.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract to customize for seasonal variations.
