Description
This homemade hot chocolate recipe offers a rich and creamy treat made with real chocolate and a perfect balance of sweetness and cocoa flavor. Ideal for cozy evenings or festive holiday gatherings, it combines cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and whole milk to create a comforting beverage topped with optional delicious garnishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate shavings
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Prep cocoa powder: Whisk together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 pinch salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually add 1/2 cup cold milk, whisking constantly, until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved in the milk.
- Cook cocoa: Add the remaining 3 1/2 cups milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, whisking constantly. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add chocolate: Stir in 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips until melted. If the chocolate is not melting completely, gently warm over low heat without boiling to avoid seizing.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve at desired temperature. Garnish with optional toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, marshmallows, or sprinkles as preferred.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a rich and creamy texture, but you can substitute with a milk alternative for a lighter version.
- Adjust the sugar quantity to your taste for sweetness preferences.
- Do not boil the mixture after adding chocolate to prevent it from seizing.
- For an extra indulgent drink, add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract.
- Leftover hot chocolate can be refrigerated and gently reheated, stirring well before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 246 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 71 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.01 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
