Description
This homemade hot chocolate recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and indulgent treat made with real chocolate and simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for cozy winter nights or festive gatherings, it combines cocoa powder, milk, and melted chocolate chips to create a velvety, satisfying drink topped with your favorite extras like whipped cream or marshmallows.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate shavings
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Prep Cocoa Powder: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 pinch salt. Gradually add 1/2 cup cold milk while continuously whisking until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Cook Cocoa: Add the remaining 3 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat, whisking constantly until it comes to a simmer. Allow it to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add Chocolate: Stir in 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips until completely melted. If necessary, gently warm the mixture over low heat to help melt the chocolate, taking care not to boil as this may cause the chocolate to seize.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately with desired toppings such as whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with milk alternatives if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste for a sweeter or less sweet drink.
- To prevent the chocolate from seizing, avoid boiling the mixture once the chocolate has been added.
- Optional toppings like whipped cream or marshmallows add texture and flavor, making the drink feel extra special.
- This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings or cozy evenings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 246 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 71 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.01 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
