Description
This Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe creates a rich and creamy hot cocoa using whole milk, cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate, and vanilla extract. It’s a cozy, indulgent drink perfect for warming up on chilly days, served with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 oz bittersweet chocolate (or semisweet, milk, etc.)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For Serving
- Homemade whipped cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder to a medium saucepan, preparing the base for your hot chocolate.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk occasionally. Heat gently until the mixture just begins to bubble but avoid boiling to prevent scorching and preserve smoothness.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in the bittersweet chocolate and pure vanilla extract, whisking continuously until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into four small mugs and top each with homemade whipped cream for a creamy finishing touch. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- 6 oz of chocolate is equivalent to approximately 1 cup of chocolate pieces or chopped chocolate.
- Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) can be used; whole or 2% milk provide the creamiest results.
- For a richer texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate are recommended.
- Use pure, unsweetened cocoa powder; dark cocoa powder will produce a more intense flavor.
- Granulated sugar alternatives such as organic cane sugar or coconut sugar can be used.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate is suggested; milk or white chocolate will make the drink sweeter.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240 ml)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
