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Rich Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This rich homemade hot chocolate recipe delivers a creamy, indulgent beverage perfect for warming up on chilly days. Using a blend of whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate, and cocoa powder, it produces a thick, smooth, and deeply chocolaty drink. Topped optionally with whipped cream or marshmallows, this easy stovetop recipe is a cozy treat for two.


Ingredients

Scale

Milk Mixture

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Chocolate Base

  • 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

Toppings (Optional)

  • Whipped cream
  • Marshmallows


Instructions

  1. Warm Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat until the mixture is steaming but not boiling, ensuring gentle warmth to prevent scalding.
  2. Mix Cocoa Powder and Sugar: In a small bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. This step helps remove any lumps and blends the dry ingredients smoothly.
  3. Incorporate Cocoa Mixture: Gradually whisk the cocoa, sugar, and salt mixture into the warm milk and cream. Stir continuously to fully combine.
  4. Melt Chocolate Chips: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
  5. Thicken Hot Chocolate: Continue heating gently for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently. The hot chocolate will thicken and develop a creamy texture.
  6. Add Flavoring: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and taste the hot chocolate, adjusting the sweetness if necessary.
  7. Serve: Pour the rich hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • For a darker chocolate flavor, use bittersweet chocolate and reduce the sugar slightly to balance sweetness.
  • To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or oat milk and use dairy-free chocolate.
  • This recipe can be easily doubled or adjusted to serve larger crowds.