Description
Homemade Hot Chocolate is the ultimate comfort drink to warm you up on chilly days. Made with rich whole milk, heavy cream, and melted semi-sweet chocolate, this creamy and decadent beverage is easy to prepare on the stovetop. Topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, it’s a perfect cozy treat to enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Heat the Mixture: Continue stirring frequently as you heat the mixture until it starts to steam gently but does not come to a boil. This ensures the flavors meld without burning the milk.
- Add Chocolate: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, stirring constantly until the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Finish with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile of the hot chocolate.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best comforting experience.
Notes
- For a richer and creamier hot chocolate, substitute half or all of the milk with half-and-half or additional heavy cream.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar to taste or switch to dark chocolate for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a seasonal twist.
