Description
A rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate made with real chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and whole milk, perfect for cozying up during the holidays or any chilly day.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Mix
- 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: Whisk together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 pinch salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually add 1/2 cup cold milk, whisking constantly until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved into the milk.
- Cook cocoa: Add the remaining 3 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 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 the chocolate does not fully melt, gently warm the mixture over low heat, being careful not to boil it, as boiling may cause the chocolate to seize.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately with your choice of optional toppings such as chocolate shavings, whipped cream, marshmallows, or sprinkles.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but milk alternatives can be substituted if needed.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Be careful not to boil the mixture after adding chocolate to prevent grainy texture.
- For an extra rich version, add a splash of heavy cream when simmering the milk.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop before serving.
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
