Description
This Rich Homemade Hot Chocolate recipe delivers a creamy, indulgent beverage perfect for chilly days or cozy nights in. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, and high-quality chocolate, it offers a luscious texture and deep chocolate flavor balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. Topped optionally with whipped cream or marshmallows, this classic American drink is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 to 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, adjusted to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat gently until the mixture is steaming hot but not boiling, creating a warm base for the chocolate.
- Mix Cocoa Powder and Sugar: In a small bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt to break up any lumps. This dry mixture helps ensure a smooth chocolate texture.
- Incorporate Cocoa Mixture: Whisk the cocoa, sugar, and salt mixture into the warm milk and cream, blending thoroughly until fully combined and smooth.
- Add the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously over low heat until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Simmer to Thicken: Continue heating the hot chocolate gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. This step thickens the drink and enhances the creamy texture.
- Finish with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if preferred, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a deeper, richer chocolate flavor, substitute bittersweet chocolate and slightly reduce the sugar to balance the bitterness.
- To make a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for serving more guests without losing its rich flavor and creamy texture.
