Description
This Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe is a rich and creamy cocoa drink made from whole milk, cocoa powder, and bittersweet chocolate. It provides a perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor, enhanced with vanilla extract, making it a comforting beverage to enjoy on cold days. Serve topped with homemade whipped cream for an indulgent treat that is easy to prepare in under 10 minutes.
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, or alternative chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Serving
- Homemade whipped cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder to a medium saucepan to prepare the base for your hot chocolate.
- Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk occasionally. Heat until the mixture just begins to bubble, ensuring it does not reach a full boil. This step is crucial for proper dissolution and flavor development.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in the bittersweet chocolate and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate evenly into 4 small mugs. Top each serving with homemade whipped cream for an added creamy texture and richness.
Notes
- 6 oz of chocolate is approximately equal to 1 cup in volume.
- Ingredient Substitutions: For milk, any dairy or non-dairy milk can be used, though whole milk or 2% milk provides a creamier texture. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk is recommended.
- Use pure unsweetened cocoa powder; dark cocoa powder will yield a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Granulated sugar alternatives include white sugar, organic cane sugar, or coconut sugar.
- For chocolate, semi-sweet or bittersweet varieties are best. Milk or white chocolate will result in a sweeter drink. Dairy-free chocolate can be used for vegan versions.
- Pure vanilla extract gives the best flavor, but other extracts like peppermint can be added for variation.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg