Description
Indulge in a cozy, rich homemade hot chocolate made with creamy whole milk, heavy cream, and melted dark chocolate. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a luscious, smooth beverage perfect for warming up on chilly days. Top it with whipped cream or marshmallows for an extra special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Chocolate and Cocoa
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or to taste
- 1 pinch salt
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
Instructions
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, warm the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Prepare the Cocoa Mixture: While the milk heats, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl to evenly combine the dry ingredients.
- Combine Cocoa with Milk: Pour the cocoa powder mixture into the warmed milk and cream, whisking continuously until the cocoa and sugar are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and even in texture.
- Melt the Chocolate Chips: Reduce the heat to low and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the saucepan. Stir gently and whisk continuously until the chocolate fully melts into the liquid and the hot chocolate becomes rich and velvety.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and, if desired, top with whipped cream or marshmallows to create a classic cozy beverage experience. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a deeper and more intense chocolate flavor, use bittersweet chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a festive seasonal twist.
- To make a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
