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Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 66 reviews
  • Author: Bertha
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 7 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add the whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder to a medium saucepan to prepare the base for your hot chocolate.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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