The best Hot Chocolate
A rich, creamy, and indulgent homemade hot chocolate recipe that balances deep chocolate flavor with a smooth texture. Quick and easy to make in under 10 minutes, this comforting drink uses simple everyday ingredients and can be customized to suit dietary preferences or flavor variations. Perfect for cozy afternoons, family gatherings, or satisfying a sweet craving any time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
Flavor Enhancers
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chunks or chips (at least 60% cocoa)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm the Milk: Pour milk into a medium saucepan and gently heat over medium-low heat. Warm until hot but not boiling to avoid scalding and preserve flavor.
- Mix Cocoa and Sugar: In a small bowl, combine unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add a few tablespoons of the warm milk to create a smooth paste, preventing lumps in the final drink.
- Combine and Heat: Whisk the cocoa paste back into the warm milk in the saucepan. Stir consistently while heating to your desired temperature without boiling.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in dark chocolate chunks or chips until fully melted and combined. Finish by adding vanilla extract to enhance the deep chocolate notes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pour the luscious hot chocolate into your favorite mug and enjoy the comforting, creamy drink.
Notes
- Choose quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for richer flavor.
- Heat milk gradually to avoid burning or curdling.
- Use whole milk or milk alternatives with fat for best creaminess.
- Experiment with sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar.
- Whisk continuously to ensure smooth texture without lumps.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250ml)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: hot chocolate, homemade hot cocoa, creamy hot chocolate, warm drink, cozy beverage, winter drink, chocolate recipe, vegan hot chocolate
Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/the-best-hot-chocolate/