Hot Chocolate
Indulge in the ultimate comfort drink with this rich and creamy Hot Chocolate. Every sip is a luxurious experience, thanks to the perfect blend of bittersweet chocolate and creamy milk. Whether you're cozying up by the fire or sharing with friends, this easy recipe is a must-try tonight!
Equipment
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Frying Pan
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ? teaspoon sea salt
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Instructions
- Start by pouring 4 cups of whole milk into a medium-sized saucepan. Add ¼ cup of brown sugar and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Use a whisk to combine the ingredients. As you do this, enjoy the creamy mixture starting to form.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and warm the mixture for about 3 minutes. You want it to be hot, but not boiling. You’ll see little bubbles starting to form at the edges when it’s ready. Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling, which can alter the texture.
- Once the milk is hot, it’s time to add the chocolate. Toss in 6 ounces of chopped bittersweet chocolate. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. The combination of milk and chocolate should be creamy and inviting.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside. The aroma of your hot chocolate is going to be heavenly, so take a moment to enjoy it!
- Now let’s make the whipped cream. In a large bowl, add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla. You can use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a hand mixer.
- Start mixing on low speed, gradually increasing it to medium, then medium-high as the cream thickens. Keep whipping until you reach soft peaks. This should be fluffy and thick, and it won’t take long!
- For serving, pour the hot chocolate into two mugs. Don’t be shy about filling them up!
- Top each mug with a generous dollop of your homemade whipped cream. Feel free to sprinkle some sifted cocoa powder or grated chocolate on top for that finishing touch.
- Take a moment to admire your creation before diving into that first sip. Let the flavors warm you all the way through!
Notes
- Tip for Mixing: Ensure your milk is at the right temperature to help the chocolate melt easily. If it’s too hot, it can burn; too cool, and it won’t melt properly.
- Flavor Variations: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick. This can elevate the drink to a whole new level.
- Whisking Technique: When combining the chocolate, whisk vigorously to incorporate air and enhance the creaminess of the mixture.
- Presentation Matters: Serve your hot chocolate in clear mugs for a lovely presentation and to showcase the rich color and topped cream.