Savor the richness of Hot Chocolate, a creamy blend of dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and warm milk. It's topped with whipped cream or marshmallows for a delightful treat. Perfect for warming up on cold days or satisfying chocolate cravings!
Begin by heating milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cocoa powder to the warm milk.
Give it a good whisk until the cocoa powder is completely blended with the milk.
Next, pour in the maple syrup and stir to combine all the flavors.
Add the chopped dark chocolate and continue to whisk until the chocolate is entirely melted into the mixture.
Now, using a spatula, gently stir the mixture on and off until it thickens slightly. Stirring intermittently helps prevent the drink from burning. Once it reaches your desired thickness, remove the Hot Chocolate from the stove and let it cool for a bit to reach the perfect drinking temperature.
Finally, pour your homemade Hot Chocolate into a serving glass and top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a handful of marshmallows.
To Serve
Indulge in this luscious Homemade Hot Chocolate on chilly winter days or whenever those chocolate cravings strike.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Hot Chocolate:
Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and cocoa powder is key to achieving that deeply satisfying, rich taste in your hot chocolate.
Texture: For a luxuriously thick and creamy texture, full-fat cow's milk is my go-to choice. However, if you're aiming for an even richer consistency, half-and-half or heavy cream are excellent alternatives.
Vegan-Friendly: Don't worry if you're vegan or prefer plant-based options; almond, oat, coconut, or cashew milk are all fantastic substitutes that still deliver great flavor.
Cinnamon Twist: For an extra layer of warmth and flavor, consider sprinkling in some cinnamon powder. This not only enhances the taste but adds a subtle, spicy aroma that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Store-Bought Cocoa Mix: While homemade Hot Chocolate holds a special charm, you can certainly opt for a store-bought cocoa mix powder for convenience. Just remember to omit additional sweeteners, as these mixes typically already contain sugar.