Description
This Homemade Hot Chocolate recipe is a rich, creamy, and comforting beverage made with whole milk, cocoa powder, and bittersweet chocolate. Perfect for cozy evenings or as a delightful treat, this hot cocoa is enhanced with pure vanilla extract and topped with homemade whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 oz bittersweet chocolate (or semisweet, milk, white chocolate as alternatives)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For Serving
- Homemade whipped cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder to a medium saucepan, preparing the base for your hot chocolate.
- Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk occasionally. Heat the mixture until it just begins to bubble, making sure it does not boil to prevent scorching or separation.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in the bittersweet chocolate and pure vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate evenly into 4 small mugs and top each with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- 6 oz of chocolate is equivalent to 1 cup chopped or broken pieces.
- Whole milk can be substituted with any dairy or non-dairy milk; higher fat content like whole milk or cream will result in a creamier hot chocolate.
- Use pure unsweetened cocoa powder; dark cocoa powder is ideal for a richer flavor.
- Granulated sugar can be replaced with organic cane sugar or coconut sugar as preferred.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate is recommended. Milk or white chocolate will produce a sweeter drink.
- For a dairy-free or vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate and full-fat coconut milk.
- Pure vanilla extract is preferred, but you may add other extracts such as peppermint for variation.
- Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
