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Ultimate Creamy Dreamy Hot Chocolate

Indulge in the ultimate comfort drink with this lusciously thick and creamy hot chocolate recipe. Made with rich ingredients like heavy cream and semi-sweet chocolate, this decadent treat is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips about 1 cup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: Whipped cream, for topping
  • Optional: Mini marshmallows, for topping
  • Optional: Chocolate shavings, for topping
  • Optional: Cinnamon stick, for garnish
  • Optional: Caramel sauce, for drizzling

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mugs
  • Optional: Immersion blender or regular blender

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined and no lumps of cocoa powder remain.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly until the mixture begins to simmer (but do not boil).
  3. Reduce the heat to low and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Continue to whisk until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Add more sugar or a touch of honey to taste.
  6. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
  7. Top with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

For an extra smooth hot chocolate, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture after the chocolate chips have melted. Be careful when blending hot liquids. Store leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a Mexican hot chocolate variation. Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, such as Baileys or Kahlua, for an adult version.