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Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

Homemade hot chocolate recipe uses milk, dark chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla for a rich, creamy drink that tastes better than any café version.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Course Beverage / Drink
Cuisine American / European
Servings 2
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Heatproof Mug
  • Rubber Spatula (Optional)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • Whole milk gives the drink a creamy texture. You can also use oat milk almond milk, or coconut milk.
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

Adjust to your liking.

  • 60 grams about 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Small pinch of salt
  • This enhances the chocolate flavor.

Optional Toppings

  • These toppings take the drink to the next level.
  • Fresh whipped cream
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Cocoa powder dusting
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Cinnamon sprinkle

Instructions
 

Step 1: Heat the Milk

  • Pour the milk into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat.
  • Warm it gently until it’s hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t form a skin on top.
  • Heating the milk slowly helps create a smoother texture.

Step 2: Add Cocoa Powder and Sugar

  • Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar.
  • At first, the cocoa powder may float on top, but keep whisking and it will blend into the milk. This step builds the base flavor of the drink.
  • The aroma of chocolate will already start filling your kitchen.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

  • Add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan.
  • Continue whisking as it melts into the hot milk. The chocolate will slowly dissolve and create a smooth, glossy mixture.
  • This is what transforms the drink from simple cocoa into a true homemade hot chocolate recipe.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Salt

  • Stir in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt.
  • The salt may seem like a tiny ingredient, but it really enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • Give everything one last whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Pour and Serve

  • Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug.
  • Top it with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings. I personally love a big swirl of whipped cream with a light dusting of cocoa powder.
  • Take a moment to enjoy the warm chocolate aroma before that first sip.
Keyword Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe