Homemade Hot Chocolate
This homemade hot chocolate recipe offers a rich, creamy, and deeply chocolatey drink made from simple ingredients, perfect for cozy, comforting moments on chilly days.
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk or any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy for a dairy-free option
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder choose a good-quality cocoa for best flavor
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar adjust to taste; you can substitute with honey or maple syrup if preferred
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- a pinch salt to enhance the chocolate flavor
- Optional toppings whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
Instructions
- Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top. Heat until the milk is hot but not boiling—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
- While the milk is warming, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps prevent clumps and ensures an even chocolate flavor.
- Add about 2 tablespoons of the warm milk to the cocoa mixture and whisk until you get a smooth, thick paste. This step dissolves the cocoa powder and sugar, avoiding lumps in your hot chocolate.
- Pour the chocolate paste back into the saucepan with the rest of the warm milk. Whisk continuously until everything is fully combined and heated through, about 2 more minutes. Do not let the mixture boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely aromatic touch.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with your favorite garnishes like whipped cream or marshmallows. Sip slowly and savor the warmth!
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan
- Small Bowl
- Whisk
Notes
Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, or try coconut milk for a tropical twist. For an extra rich hot chocolate, substitute half the milk with heavy cream or evaporated milk. Whisk vigorously when mixing the cocoa paste to eliminate lumps and create a smooth drink. Adjust sweetness gradually—start with less sugar and add more if needed. Heat gently to avoid scorching the milk or boiling off the vanilla aroma. For a deeper chocolate flavor, add a small piece of dark chocolate while heating and stir until melted. Variations include spiced hot chocolate with cinnamon or chili powder, mint hot chocolate with peppermint extract, mocha hot chocolate with espresso, vegan hot chocolate with plant-based milk and maple syrup, white hot chocolate with white chocolate chips, and protein boost by adding protein powder. Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently without boiling.