Description
This rich homemade hot chocolate recipe transforms a classic childhood favorite into a luxuriously creamy and comforting drink. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, natural cocoa powder, and quality dark chocolate, it delivers a luscious, deeply chocolatey flavor that’s perfect for cozying up on chilly days. Simply simmer the ingredients on the stovetop, melt in dark chocolate, and serve with your choice of marshmallows, whipped cream, or other toppings for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1¾ cups (420 g) whole milk
- ½ cup (115 g) heavy cream
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract or essence
Dry Ingredients
- 2 tbsp natural cocoa powder
- 1½ tbsp soft light brown sugar (white sugar can be substituted)
- 1 small pinch salt
Chocolate
- ½ cup (85 g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, roughly chopped (or a heaping cup if measured by volume)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients in saucepan: Place a saucepan over medium heat and add the whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the milk and cocoa mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Once it starts to bubble gently around the edges, reduce the heat to low.
- Melt the chocolate: Add the roughly chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate to the simmering mixture. Stir continuously on low heat until the chocolate has fully melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate evenly into two mugs. Taste and add additional sugar if desired. Allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes, then top with your favorite additions such as marshmallows, whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
- Use gram measurements for accuracy when possible, as cup measurements are approximate.
- Natural cocoa powder gives the best flavor, but Dutch-processed can be used for a mellower taste.
- Adjust sugar amount to your preferred level of sweetness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and coconut cream.
- Stir continuously when adding chocolate to avoid burning or seizing.
