Description
This rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe combines high-quality cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and sweetened condensed milk for a decadent treat that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days. Made on the stovetop with simple ingredients, it can be customized to your taste with extra chocolate or a pinch of salt, and topped with whipped cream or mini marshmallows for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons high quality cocoa powder
- 2 & 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (about 2 ounces)
- 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Bloom the cocoa: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons cocoa powder. Place over medium-high heat and whisk to incorporate the powder into the water. Bring the mixture to a boil, whisking occasionally to prevent clumping.
- Add remaining ingredients: Reduce heat to medium, then add 2 1/2 cups whole milk, 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips, and start with 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt. Carefully whisk all ingredients together.
- Simmer the hot chocolate: Allow the mixture to come to a low simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally to melt the chocolate and fully combine all elements. Once you reach a low boil, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes to deepen flavors.
- Adjust seasoning and richness: Taste a spoonful and add additional salt (up to 1/8 teaspoon more) if desired. If you prefer a richer and thicker hot chocolate, add more dark chocolate chips and whisk until fully melted and integrated.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into 4 mugs and top with whipped cream or mini marshmallows as desired. Enjoy warm, but be careful not to burn your tongue!
Notes
- You can make this hot chocolate in a slow cooker by blooming cocoa in water on high heat for 30 minutes, then adding all ingredients and cooking on low for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to break up chocolate chips.
- Store leftover hot chocolate in glass jars with lids in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave at 50% power, stirring frequently to prevent scorching or separation.
- Adjust sweetness and saltiness to your personal preference for the perfect balance.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot chocolate, cocoa recipe, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate, winter drinks, warm beverage
