Description
This rich and luscious European Hot Chocolate recipe delivers the ultimate indulgent treat with its thick, creamy texture and intense dark chocolate flavor. Made from whole milk, heavy cream, Dutch-process cocoa powder, and premium dark chocolate, this hot chocolate is perfect for cozy moments. Topped with homemade whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s a luxurious beverage that elevates the traditional cup of hot cocoa.
Ingredients
Scale
European-style Hot Chocolate
- 1 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder (such as Dutch-process cocoa powder)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (to taste; see notes)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional; see notes)
- 3 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- 1 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa) shavings
- Whipped cream for serving, optional (recipe below)
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar or more, to taste (see notes)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Heat the Milk and Cream: Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a saucepan and place it over medium-low heat. Warm slowly until the mixture is hot but not boiling, ensuring it does not scorch.
- Prepare Cocoa Mixture: While heating the milk, sift together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and optional cornstarch through a sieve into a small bowl to eliminate any lumps for a smooth texture.
- Combine and Thicken: When the milk is hot, whisk the cocoa mixture into the saucepan. Continue heating and whisking constantly for about 5 minutes, until the hot chocolate thickens slightly. Be cautious not to overcook if using cornstarch as it can become overly thick.
- Add Dark Chocolate: Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and whisk until fully melted and integrated into the hot chocolate to achieve a rich, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness with extra powdered sugar if desired. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs. Top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
- Make Whipped Cream: Chill the mixer bowl and whisk in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before starting. Add chilled heavy cream to the bowl, whisk at high speed until peaks begin to form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing until soft peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- For a thicker hot chocolate, add cornstarch, but avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming too gelatinous.
- Adjust powdered sugar to taste depending on your sweetness preference.
- Whipped cream can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor and richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
