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Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 9 reviews
  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This homemade hot chocolate recipe delivers a rich and creamy beverage made with real chocolate, perfect for cozying up during the holidays or any chilly evening. Combining cocoa powder, both semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, with whole milk and vanilla extract, this comforting drink offers a decadent and smooth texture that can be customized with your favorite toppings.


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

Chocolate Chips

  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips

Optional Toppings

  • Chocolate shavings
  • Whipped cream
  • Marshmallows
  • Sprinkles


Instructions

  1. Prep cocoa powder: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 pinch salt. Gradually add 1/2 cup cold milk while whisking constantly until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
  2. Cook cocoa: Add the remaining 3 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, whisking constantly to prevent scorching. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat.
  3. Add chocolate: Stir in 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips until melted completely. If the chocolate doesn’t fully melt, warm gently over low heat without boiling to avoid chocolate seizing.
  4. Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately topped with your choice of optional toppings such as chocolate shavings, whipped cream, marshmallows, or sprinkles for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with any milk alternative if desired.
  • Adjust the sugar quantity to taste depending on your preferred sweetness level.
  • Whisking constantly during heating prevents lumps and burning for a smooth drink.
  • Do not let the chocolate boil after adding it to avoid grainy or seized chocolate.
  • Optional toppings add extra flavor and festive presentation to your hot chocolate.

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