Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Best Hot Chocolate Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 47 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Indulge in the ultimate rich and creamy hot chocolate made with dark chocolate, whole milk, and heavy cream. This luxurious beverage is perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and a touch of salt, simmered to silky smooth perfection and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra decadence.

Ingredients

Liquid Ingredients

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate & Sweeteners

  • 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Toppings (Optional)

  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Heat Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. This gentle heating prevents scalding and creates a smooth base for your hot chocolate.
  2. Melting the Chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the pot and whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and silky.
  3. Add Sugar, Salt, and Vanilla: Whisk in the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until the sugar completely dissolves, enhancing and balancing the chocolate flavor.
  4. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, whisking frequently. This allows the hot chocolate to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the hot chocolate cool for a few minutes to make it safe and pleasant to drink while letting the flavors settle.
  6. Serve with Toppings: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired for an indulgent finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use good quality dark chocolate (around 60-70% cocoa) for the best rich flavor.
  • Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute almond or oat milk and coconut cream in place of whole milk and heavy cream.
  • To keep hot chocolate warm longer, prepare in a double boiler or slow cooker on warm setting.
  • Adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of peppermint extract can create delightful flavor variations.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/the-best-hot-chocolate-recipe/