Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar, to taste
- ¾ cup dark chocolate (50% cocoa), chopped
Topping
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Pour 2 cups of milk into a medium saucepan and warm it over medium heat until it starts to steam but not boil, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
- Add Cocoa and Sugar: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and 1–2 teaspoons of sugar into the hot milk until fully dissolved, adjusting sweetness to your preference.
- Melt Dark Chocolate: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Flavor with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract if using, to enhance the flavor depth.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream for a creamy finish.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate with at least 50% cocoa for a rich, intense flavor.
- Adjust the sugar amount depending on how sweet you like your hot chocolate.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Whisking continuously ensures the chocolate melts evenly without burning.
- This recipe is perfect for making in small batches and can be doubled easily for larger groups.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
