Decadent Homemade Hot Chocolate
A rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate recipe that is thick, velvety, and bursting with real chocolate flavor. Perfect for cozy evenings and special occasions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ounces (55 grams) dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, mini marshmallows, cinnamon, nutmeg, caramel syrup, peppermint syrup
Instructions
- Combine the milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Whisk together over medium heat.
- Heat gently until warm but not boiling, about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to dissolve cocoa powder and sugar.
- Add the finely chopped dark chocolate and stir gently until melted and mixture is smooth and glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more sugar and stirring to dissolve.
- Serve immediately in mugs, topped with optional whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes
Do not let the mixture boil to avoid splitting the cream. Whisk constantly to prevent lumps. Use good-quality dark chocolate for best flavor. For dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut milk and cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 280320
- Fat: 1822
- Carbohydrates: 2530
- Protein: 68
Keywords: hot chocolate, homemade hot chocolate, rich hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, winter drink, cozy beverage