Hot Chocolate Recipe
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This simple hot chocolate recipe is our go-to every winter, and trust me, it blows the store-bought mix out of the water. Creamy, rich, and ridiculously easy to make, this is the cozy cup of comfort you’ll want all season long!
This classic hot chocolate is the base for all of my other cocoa recipes! Be sure to check out my Mexican Hot Chocolate, Spiked Cocoa Recipe, Nutella Hot Chocolate, Whipped Hot Chocolate and Christmas Cocoa!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 5 Ingredients: You’ll be shocked when I tell you that you will only need five basic ingredients to make this belly warming drink.
- Better Than Starbucks: My teenager proclaims that this is a Starbucks Copycat Hot Chocolate, only better.
- Easy to Customize: Check out a few of the ways we like to customize this easy drink below.
There are three drinks I live on in the cooler winter months. You won’t see me going a day without caramel apple cider, chai latte, or homemade hot cocoa.
Homemade hot chocolate checks every box. It is creamy with rich chocolate flavor and perfect for curling up on a chilly winter night. It also happens to be the easiest to make, taking a whopping five minutes. Once you try this recipe you’ll be tossing out any leftover powder packets you have cluttering your pantry!
hot chocolate drink
homemade hot chocolate recipe
Ingredient You’ll Need
This hot chocolate recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together for a rich, indulgent treat. It starts with cocoa powder, sugar, and milk as the base, but the secret to its velvety texture is a splash of half and half. That one addition takes it from good to absolutely amazing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cocoa Powder: I love using Hershey’s classic cocoa powder, which is easy to find and works great. Feel free to use your favorite brand.
- Sugar: Adjust the sweetness to your liking. I like mine balanced, but if you prefer a sweeter sip, just add a bit more sugar.
- Milk: Go for at least 2% milk, or whole milk if you want that rich, creamy texture. The half and half at the end is optional but really elevates the drink.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is key to avoid any off flavors. It gives a warm, subtle note to the cocoa.
- Toppings: While this hot chocolate is amazing on its own, fun toppings like whipped cream or homemade marshmallows can take it to the next level!
Variations and Substitutions
For this hot chocolate recipe, there are plenty of fun ways to customize it to suit your taste! Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
- Milk Alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, swap out the regular milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly, but it still makes a creamy, delicious drink.
- Sugar Substitutes: If you want a lower-sugar version, try using a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute such as Stevia. Adjust the amount to taste, as some sweeteners are stronger than others.
- Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm, spiced kick to your cocoa. This brings an extra layer of flavor and coziness.
- Peppermint Twist: Stir in a drop of peppermint extract or crush some peppermint candies for a festive touch, especially around the holidays.
- Rich Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a richer, darker chocolate taste, swap the regular cocoa powder for a dark or Dutch-processed version.
- Marshmallow Heaven: Instead of regular toppings, try topping your hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows, flavored whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent treat!
These options allow you to mix and match, making this hot chocolate recipe perfect for any occasion or dietary preference.
Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
This simple hot chocolate recipe comes together in just a few easy steps, making it the ultimate cozy treat. Here’s a quick overview to guide you through the process:
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out the sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and water into a medium saucepan.
- Simmer: Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking occasionally. Gradually stir in the milk, ensuring it’s fully mixed. Heat until it just begins to simmer, avoiding a full boil.
- Add the Half and Half: Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and half and half for a rich, creamy finish.
- Enjoy: Pour into your favorite mugs and indulge in this warm, comforting drink!
Like this post? Be sure the check out my 15 Must Make Christmas Brunch Recipes!
Helpful Tools
- Pot: I love this pot with a pour spout (affiliate) for all of my drink recipes. It makes it super simple to pour into your glasses without any spilling. I also use it for reheating soups and stews.
- Silicone Whisk: If you are using a coated pot you want to avoid using abrasive utensils. A silicone lined whisk (affiliate) is going to be a game changer in your kitchen.
- Mugs: I used these glass mugs (affiliate) for these photos.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This hot chocolate recipe is easy to prepare in advance, making it perfect for those cozy winter days when you want something warm and ready to go.
- Prep the Dry Ingredients: You can combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in an airtight container and store it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to make a batch, simply add the dry mix to a saucepan with water and follow the rest of the recipe.
- Refrigerate the Liquid Mix: You can also prepare the hot chocolate fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.
- Freezing Option: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the hot chocolate in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove for best results.
Expert Recipe Tips:
Don’t Boil the Milk: Heating the milk slowly to a simmer will give the hot chocolate a creamy texture. Boiling can cause the milk to scorch, changing the flavor.
Whisk Continuously: While heating the mixture, whisk frequently to prevent the cocoa and sugar from settling at the bottom and to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
Use High-Quality Cocoa: For the richest flavor, opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Classic Hershey’s works great, but using premium cocoa can elevate the flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the hot chocolate after adding the sugar. If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add a little more sugar to your taste.
Serve with Fun Toppings: Try marshmallows, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or shaved chocolate for an extra special touch.
Recipe FAQs
Yes! While 2% or whole milk will give the creamiest results, you can substitute almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk. Just note that it may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor.
Boiling the milk can cause it to scorch or curdle, which may affect the flavor and texture of your hot chocolate. Heat it slowly to a simmer for the best results.
Simply reduce the amount of sugar. You can also use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor with less sweetness.
For a richer drink, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of shaved chocolate on top.
Yes! You can heat the ingredients in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently, until hot. Be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl.
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Perfect Hot Cocoa
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- pinch salt
- 1/3 cup hot water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup half and half (or cream)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and hot water until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally.
- Slowly pour in the milk while stirring to combine. Continue heating until the milk is warmed through, but don’t let it boil.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla and cream.
- Pour the hot chocolate into 4 cups. Top with marshmallows or whipped cream, if you like, and enjoy!
Notes
Equipment
Nutrition
The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
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Categories:
5-Ingredient or Less Recipes, Breakfast, Copycat Restaurant Recipes, Desserts, Drink Recipes, Holiday, Starbucks,
