Description
Rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate made with high-quality cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk. This cozy drink is perfect for warming up on chilly days and can be topped with whipped cream or mini marshmallows for an extra indulgent touch.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons high quality cocoa powder
Milk Mixture
- 2 & 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (about 2 ounces)
- 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Toppings (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Bloom the Cocoa: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons cocoa powder. Whisk thoroughly over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to incorporate the cocoa powder fully.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Reduce heat to medium and add 2 & 1/2 cups whole milk, 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips, and start with 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk well to combine.
- Simmer the Mixture: Allow the hot chocolate mixture to come to a low simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally. Once it reaches a low boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chocolate chips melt completely and flavors meld.
- Adjust to Taste: Carefully taste the hot chocolate. Add another 1/8 teaspoon salt if desired and/or more chocolate chips for a richer, thicker drink. Whisk and heat slightly longer until additional chocolate melts and incorporates fully.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chocolate into four mugs. Top with whipped cream or mini marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy while warm.
- Slow Cooker Method (Optional): To make in a slow cooker, first bloom the cocoa powder in water by combining them and heating on high for about 30 minutes until bubbly. Then add all remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes until smooth.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover hot chocolate in glass mason jars with lids in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, shake the jar, pour into a saucepan, and warm over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds to avoid separation or scorching.
Notes
- Use high quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- Adjust salt carefully to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
- More dark chocolate chips can be added for a richer texture and taste.
- Whisk often during simmering to prevent scorching and ensure smooth consistency.
- The slow cooker method is great for making hot chocolate in larger batches or while multitasking.
- Reheat gently to prevent separation or burning of the milk and chocolate mixture.
- This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a small group or family.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American