Description
This rich homemade hot chocolate recipe delivers a velvety, decadent drink perfect for cozy moments. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and high-quality dark chocolate, this indulgent beverage is easy to prepare on the stovetop and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1¾ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract/essence
Dry Ingredients
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (natural cocoa powder recommended)
- 1½ tbsp soft light brown sugar (white sugar can be substituted)
- 1 small pinch salt
Chocolate
- ½ cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate (roughly chopped; if using cups, a heaping cup of roughly chopped chocolate)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Place a saucepan over medium heat. Add the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the pan. Whisk continuously until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture begins to warm.
- Simmer and melt chocolate: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Add the roughly chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate to the saucepan. Stir gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate evenly into two mugs. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if desired. Allow it to cool slightly, then top with your favorite additions like marshmallows or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use natural cocoa powder for a richer, more authentic chocolate flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut cream.
- To intensify the chocolate flavor, opt for dark chocolate with higher cacao content (70% or more).
- Store any leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
