Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian-style hot chocolate is thick, creamy, and intensely chocolatey. The combination of whole milk, dark chocolate, and cocoa powder creates a rich base that is further thickened with cornstarch, making it almost pudding-like in consistency. It’s perfect for those who crave a decadent, dessert-like drink that satisfies your chocolate cravings. Whether you’re snuggling up by the fire or simply treating yourself to a luxurious beverage, this hot chocolate will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, broken into pieces
- Pinch kosher salt
- Shortbread cookies, for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Whisk well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it begins to steam and thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
- Once the mixture starts to thicken, add the dark chocolate pieces and continue to whisk until the chocolate has melted and the drink becomes rich and smooth.
- Once the hot chocolate has reached your desired thickness, remove it from the heat.
- Pour the thick hot chocolate into cups and serve immediately with shortbread cookies on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes
Variations
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of chili powder for a spicy twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the whole milk for a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk, and use dairy-free dark chocolate.
- Minty Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a holiday-inspired mint chocolate flavor.
- White Chocolate Version: Substitute the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a creamier, sweeter version of the hot chocolate.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Reheat the hot chocolate on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. If the hot chocolate becomes too thick after refrigeration, simply add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I make this hot chocolate without cornstarch?
The cornstarch is what gives this recipe its signature thick texture. If you skip it, the hot chocolate will be thinner, but you can still make a delicious drink.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate, but it will make the drink sweeter and less rich.
3. Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative?
Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk in place of whole milk for a dairy-free version of this hot chocolate.
4. How thick should the hot chocolate be?
This hot chocolate is traditionally thick and creamy, almost like a dessert drink. If it’s too thick for your liking, simply add a little more milk to thin it out.
5. Can I make this hot chocolate in advance?
Yes, you can make the hot chocolate ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve it, just reheat it gently on the stove.
6. How can I make this hot chocolate even richer?
To make the hot chocolate extra indulgent, add a dollop of whipped cream or marshmallows on top when serving.
7. Can I make this hot chocolate less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
8. Can I freeze this hot chocolate?
While it’s not ideal to freeze hot chocolate, you can freeze leftover hot chocolate into ice cube trays and use the cubes to make iced hot chocolate later.
9. What’s the best way to serve this hot chocolate?
Traditionally, this thick hot chocolate is served with a side of shortbread cookies, but it also pairs wonderfully with biscotti or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
Thick Italian Hot Chocolate is the perfect treat for those who enjoy rich, decadent beverages. With its smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor, this drink transforms any ordinary day into a cozy indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying it as an afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet dessert drink, this recipe will definitely hit the spot. Don’t forget to pair it with buttery shortbread cookies for the ultimate experience!
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Thick Italian Hot Chocolate
Thick Italian Hot Chocolate is a rich, creamy, and decadent drink made with dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and cornstarch, creating a velvety texture that’s perfect for a cozy treat on chilly evenings.
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
4 teaspoons cornstarch
4 ounces dark chocolate, broken into pieces
Pinch kosher salt
Shortbread cookies, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Whisk well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it begins to steam and thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
- Once the mixture starts to thicken, add the dark chocolate pieces and continue to whisk until the chocolate has melted and the drink becomes rich and smooth.
- Once the hot chocolate has reached your desired thickness, remove it from the heat.
- Pour the thick hot chocolate into cups and serve immediately with shortbread cookies on the side.
Notes
Store leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
If the hot chocolate becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a little milk to reach your desired consistency when reheating.
For extra richness, top the hot chocolate with whipped cream or marshmallows.
For a dairy-free version, swap whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free dark chocolate.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Category: Beverage, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
