Description
Indulge in a rich and creamy Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate that’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. This decadent beverage combines smooth milk, intense dark chocolate, and a hint of vanilla to create a luscious treat topped with fluffy whipped cream.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 tsp sugar (to taste)
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate (50% cocoa, chopped)
Topping
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Warm the Milk: In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, pour in 2 cups of milk and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract if using. Heat gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the milk steams but does not reach a simmer. This careful warming prevents scalding and prepares the milk for mixing.
- Add Cocoa Powder: Whisk in 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder thoroughly until fully dissolved into the warm milk, ensuring a smooth chocolate base.
- Sweeten: Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar, adjusting the sweetness to your taste preference. Mix well so the sugar dissolves completely.
- Melt Dark Chocolate: Add the 3/4 cup of chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Increase the heat to medium and whisk continuously for 5 to 10 minutes as the chocolate melts and the mixture thickens into a rich hot chocolate.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with whipped cream. Enjoy immediately while warm and velvety.
Notes
- Use 50% or higher cocoa content dark chocolate for a rich, bittersweet flavor.
- Adjust sugar to your preference depending on your sweetness tolerance and the bitterness of the chocolate.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.
- Use a low heat to avoid burning the milk or chocolate during melting.
- Optional vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
