As the winter freeze settles in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate to warm your soul. Whether you’re snuggling under a blanket with a good book, hosting a Winter dinner with friends, or just looking to treat yourself, this ultimate hot chocolate recipe is your go-to for a luxurious and heartwarming drink.
Here’s how…
The Ultimate Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup good quality dark chocolate, chopped (at least 70% cocoa)
1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, a pinch of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce
Instructions:
Heat the Milk and Cream:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
Prepare the Chocolate Mixture:
While the milk and cream are heating, combine the chopped dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and sugar in a heatproof bowl.
Combine the Mixtures:
Once the milk and cream mixture is hot, pour about 1/2 cup of it over the chocolate mixture. Let it sit for a minute to allow the chocolate to melt.
Whisk the mixture until smooth and the chocolate is fully melted and combined.
Combine Everything:
Pour the chocolate mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream. Whisk continuously until everything is well combined and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
Add Flavour:
Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar.
Serve:
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
Add your favourite toppings such as whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy this rich and decadent hot chocolate.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Chocolate:
For a richer hot chocolate, you can use half-and-half or even replace some of the milk with more heavy cream.
To make it extra special, consider adding a splash of your favourite flavoured liqueur, such as peppermint schnapps, Baileys, or Kahlúa, for an adult version.
If you prefer a thicker hot chocolate, let it simmer on low heat for a few extra minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Why This Hot Chocolate Stands Out
What makes this hot chocolate recipe truly exceptional is the combination of high-quality dark chocolate and the perfect balance of creaminess and sweetness. The addition of a pinch of salt enhances the chocolate flavour, while the vanilla extract adds a comforting aroma. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customise it with your favourite toppings and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
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