Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 2.1oz (60g) good quality dark chocolate (72% cacao recommended)
- 1 ½ cups milk of choice (almond milk or soy milk preferred for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons milk of choice (for cornstarch mixture)
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch
- Small pinch of salt
- Optional: Additional sugar to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Cornstarch Mixture: Add 2 tablespoons of milk to a small bowl and whisk in the cornstarch until smooth with no lumps. Set aside.
- Heat Milk and Melt Chocolate: Pour the remaining 1 ½ cups of milk into a small saucepan. Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and add to the saucepan. Heat over the lowest stovetop heat for a few minutes, stirring continuously with a whisk to melt the chocolate completely.
- Add Cocoa Powder and Salt: Once the milk has warmed and the chocolate is fully melted, whisk in the cocoa powder and a small pinch of salt. Taste the mixture and add sugar if you prefer a sweeter hot chocolate.
- Incorporate Cornstarch Mixture and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously to avoid clumps. Continue whisking over low heat until the mixture thickens to a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Serve: Pour the thickened hot chocolate into your favorite cups and enjoy immediately for the ultimate decadent experience.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for the richest flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, almond milk or soy milk works best and keeps the texture creamy.
- The cornstarch is key to achieving the traditional thick consistency of Italian hot chocolate.
- Adjust sweetness by adding sugar according to your taste.
- Serve immediately as the drink will thicken more as it cools.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
