Description
This Best Hot Chocolate Recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and indulgent drink perfect for cold days or any time you crave a warm chocolate treat. With smooth melted dark chocolate combined with whole milk and cream, this hot chocolate is luxuriously thick, mildly sweetened, and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a classic, delightful experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Base
- 4 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
Chocolate and Flavorings
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Warm the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Heating slowly prevents scalding and creates a smooth base for the hot chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the warm milk and cream mixture. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture becomes silky and smooth from the residual heat.
- Add flavoring: Whisk in the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until the sugar fully dissolves, balancing the chocolate’s richness and enhancing the flavor.
- Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture back up to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, whisking frequently to prevent sticking and to help the hot chocolate thicken to a creamy, luscious texture.
- Cool slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the hot chocolate cool for a few minutes to a safe sipping temperature, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired, adding extra indulgence and texture to each serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate (around 60-70% cocoa) for the best flavor and richness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk, but note the flavor and texture differences.
- Adjust the sugar amount to your preference, adding more or less depending on how sweet you like your hot chocolate.
- If you prefer a spiced variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper during the simmering step.
- Serve immediately for the best creamy texture; reheating may cause slight separation.
