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
Scale
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
