Introduction

This rich and creamy hot chocolate is perfect for chilly days when you need a comforting treat. Made with high-quality cocoa, dark chocolate, and sweetened condensed milk, it offers a deliciously smooth and indulgent experience. Whether served with whipped cream or marshmallows, it’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.

A close-up image shows a cup being filled with smooth, creamy hot chocolate. The mug is white with a subtle raised diamond pattern, and the chocolate is a rich light brown color pouring in a thick stream from a glass container above. Around the mug base, small white marshmallows are scattered, adding to the cozy feel. In the background on a white marbled texture, blurry dark chocolate chips and warm glowing lights can be seen, creating a snug atmosphere. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (high quality, please)
2 ½ cups whole milk
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (about 2 ounces dark chocolate)
1/8 or 1/4 teaspoon salt
Whipped cream or mini marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons of high-quality cocoa powder. Place over medium-high heat and whisk to fully incorporate the cocoa powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking occasionally.
Step 2: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining ingredients: 2 ½ cups whole milk, 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/3 cup chocolate chips (be careful when adding as it may splash), and start with 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt.
Step 3: Whisk the mixture well and allow it to come to a low simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it reaches a low boil, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Carefully taste a spoonful and adjust seasoning by adding another 1/8 teaspoon salt if desired. For a richer and thicker hot chocolate, add more dark chocolate and continue whisking until melted and fully combined.
Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and optionally top with whipped cream or mini marshmallows. Enjoy while warm—but be careful not to burn your tongue!
Step 6 (Slow Cooker Option): To prepare in a slow cooker, start by blooming the cocoa powder in water by combining them in the crockpot on high for about 30 minutes until bubbly. Then add the remaining ingredients.
Step 7 (Slow Cooker Option): Alternatively, add all ingredients to the crockpot at once, set to low, cover, and cook for about 2 hours. Stir every 30 minutes with a whisk to break up any chocolate clumps.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for the best flavor.
Adjust the salt and chocolate amount to find your perfect balance of richness and flavor.
Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra indulgence.
For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and sweetened condensed milk with plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover hot chocolate in glass jars with lids in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, shake well, then warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent separation or scorching.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of smooth, rich chocolate milk being poured from a glass container into a white mug with small, raised dotted diamond patterns. The chocolate milk is thick and creamy, cascading in two streams and slightly spilling over the mug's edge. The mug sits on a white marble surface with small marshmallows scattered beside it. In the softly focused background, there are dark chocolate pieces and hints of greenery and warm lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can substitute with 2% or skim milk, but whole milk provides a creamier texture and richer flavor.

What’s the difference between sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is thick and very sweet, containing added sugar, while evaporated milk is unsweetened and more liquid. This recipe specifically calls for sweetened condensed milk to add sweetness and creaminess.