Description
This Stovetop Hot Chocolate recipe offers a rich, creamy, and comforting drink perfect for chilly days. Made with milk, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and melted semi-sweet chocolate, it’s a simple yet decadent treat that comes together quickly on the stove. A hint of vanilla and a pinch of sea salt balance the sweetness, making every cup deliciously smooth and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 4 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped semi-sweet chocolate or chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Generous pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium sauce pot, combine the milk, cocoa powder, and brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to create an even mixture without lumps.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat. Whisk the mixture frequently as it heats up until it begins to steam and tiny bubbles appear around the edges, being careful not to let it boil.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Continue stirring until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a generous pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. Serve immediately, and optionally top with whipped cream or marshmallows for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with oat milk and use vegan chocolate chips.
- To make it sweeter, use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate and/or add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
- If the hot chocolate is too rich for children, you can dilute it with water to their preference.
- Single serving adaptation: 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon semi-sweet chocolate chips, drop of vanilla extract, pinch of salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250ml)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
