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Homemade Hot Chocolate

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Homemade Hot Chocolate is a creamy, rich, and comforting drink made from scratch using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect to warm you up on chilly days, it offers a velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor that you can customize with various mix-ins and toppings. Ideal for cozy moments, gatherings, or as a delicious treat for all ages throughout the winter season.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (brown or white, adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk (or any milk/dairy alternative)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins & Toppings

  • Cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder (for spiced hot chocolate)
  • 1 shot espresso (for mocha style)
  • Almond, oat, or coconut milk (dairy-free versions)
  • Drops of peppermint extract (for minty flavor)
  • Dollop of cream or marshmallow fluff (for extra creaminess)
  • Marshmallows, whipped cream, cocoa or cinnamon powder, chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt thoroughly to ensure even sweetness and rich chocolate flavor in every sip.
  2. Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a saucepan and warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, preserving its creaminess.
  3. Whisk in Cocoa Mixture: Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the warm milk, stirring constantly until everything dissolves smoothly without lumps.
  4. Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse warmth and complexity into your hot chocolate.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Pour your homemade hot chocolate into mugs, add your favorite toppings, and savor every cozy, delicious sip.

Notes

  • Use premium quality cocoa powder to elevate the flavor.
  • Heat milk gently; avoid boiling to keep it smooth and creamy.
  • Whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually according to taste.
  • Experiment with different toppings like marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, or whipped cream for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot chocolate, homemade hot chocolate, cocoa drink, winter beverage, cozy drink, chocolate recipe, dairy-free hot chocolate, spiced hot chocolate, mocha hot chocolate