Description
Indulge in the ultimate creamy and rich hot chocolate made with whole milk, heavy cream, and dark chocolate. This easy stovetop recipe yields a silky smooth drink, perfectly balanced with sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, topped with luscious whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 4 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Warm the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. This gentle heating prevents scalding and creates a smooth, creamy base for the hot chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the simmering milk mixture and whisk continuously until the chocolate melts completely, forming a silky and smooth texture.
- Add flavoring: Whisk in the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until the sugar has fully dissolved. These enhance the richness of the chocolate and balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Simmer and thicken: Continue to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes while whisking frequently, allowing the hot chocolate to thicken and the flavors to meld into a luxurious consistency.
- Cool slightly: Remove the pot from heat and let the hot chocolate cool for a few minutes. This makes it safer and more pleasant to drink while allowing the flavors to settle.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and optionally top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and a richer texture.
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on the sweetness of the chocolate and personal preference.
- For dairy-free variation, substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk, but the texture will be different.
- Whisk continuously when adding chocolate to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth finish.
- Serve immediately for best taste; hot chocolate can thicken as it cools.
