Ingredients
Hot Chocolate
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 oz bittersweet chocolate (or semisweet, milk chocolate, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping
- Homemade whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium (3-quart) saucepan, add the whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk gently to combine the dry ingredients into the milk to ensure an even mixture.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and heat the mixture, whisking occasionally, until it just begins to bubble along the edges but does not reach a boil. This careful heating helps develop flavor without scorching the milk.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and add the bittersweet chocolate pieces and pure vanilla extract. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate evenly into 4 small mugs. Top each mug with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- If you prefer a sweeter hot chocolate, you can increase the sugar slightly to taste.
- Bittersweet chocolate offers a deep rich flavor, but you can substitute semisweet or milk chocolate to suit your preference.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk, though the texture will vary slightly.
- To create homemade whipped cream, simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Heating milk slowly and stirring frequently prevents scorching and ensures smoothness.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
