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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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