ULTIMATE Hot Chocolate Recipe
Indulge in a cup of pure comfort with this ultimate hot chocolate recipe. This recipe uses a combination of cocoa powder and real chocolate to create a rich, decadent, and velvety smooth hot chocolate that's easy to make and customizable to your liking.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mugs
- Optional: Ladle
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk or milk alternative
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 4 ounces bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Whipped cream, for topping
- Optional: Marshmallows, for topping
- Optional: Chocolate shavings, for topping
- Optional: Sprinkles, for topping
- Optional: Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and cornstarch until well combined and there are no lumps.
- Slowly pour in about 1/2 cup of the milk, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste.
- Pour in the rest of the milk and whisk until everything is well combined.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cornstarch to thicken the mixture slightly.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute or two to soften, then whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and glossy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For an even richer flavor, consider using heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preferred level of sweetness. Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to find your favorite flavor profile. Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well before serving. For a dairy-free option, use your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a spicy twist.