Description
This homemade hot chocolate recipe creates a rich and creamy beverage perfect for warming up on chilly days. Made with whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and bittersweet chocolate, it offers a deeply chocolatey flavor balanced with a hint of vanilla. Topped optionally with marshmallows or whipped cream, this cozy drink is simple to prepare in just 10 minutes on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 ounces finely chopped bittersweet chocolate
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- 4 large marshmallows
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Combine milk and dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, place 3 cups of whole milk along with 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Whisk continuously over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- Melt the chocolate: Add 3 ounces of finely chopped bittersweet chocolate to the warm milk mixture. Continue whisking until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate evenly into two mugs. If desired, garnish each mug with large marshmallows on cocktail picks or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to taste.
- Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the richest flavor.
- Marshmallows can be toasted lightly for an extra special touch.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved easily to suit your needs.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk.
