Hot Chocolate For One Recipe
Introduction
This cozy hot chocolate recipe is perfect for one and guarantees a rich, creamy treat. With a hint of cinnamon and smooth vanilla, it’s an easy way to warm up on chilly days.
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: whipped cream and/or marshmallows for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan, warm the milk and cream over medium heat. For a lighter version, use 1 cup of milk instead.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon.
- Step 3: When the milk mixture is hot but not boiling, slowly whisk in the cocoa mixture. Stir continuously for about 4 minutes until the drink thickens slightly and darkens in color.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegan option, substitute dairy milk and cream with almond, oat, or soy milk and use a plant-based cream.
- Adjust the sugar to taste, or use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
- Add a pinch of chili powder or a splash of peppermint extract for a unique twist.
Storage
Hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Yes, you can use all milk for a lighter version, but the drink will be less rich and creamy.
How can I make this hot chocolate thicker?
Stirring the cocoa mixture into the hot milk slowly and cooking for a few minutes will thicken it slightly. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in milk if you want it thicker.
Print
Hot Chocolate For One Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
A rich and comforting hot chocolate recipe perfect for one serving, combining milk, heavy cream, cocoa, and a hint of cinnamon for a cozy treat. Optionally topped with whipped cream or marshmallows for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
Instructions
- Warm the Milk and Cream: In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until hot but not boiling. For a lighter version, replace the mixture with 1 cup of milk instead.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Mix Cocoa into Milk Mixture: Once the milk mixture is hot, slowly whisk in the cocoa mixture. Stir continuously for about 4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and the color deepens to a rich chocolate tone.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and create a smooth, rich taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with whipped cream and/or marshmallows if desired for an extra special touch.
Notes
- Do not boil the milk mixture to avoid a burnt taste and maintain creaminess.
- Adjust the sugar amount to taste if you prefer more or less sweetness.
- Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut cream.
- This recipe serves one but can be easily doubled or tripled.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot chocolate, cocoa, warm drink, single serving, comfort drink, winter beverage
