Description

This Homemade Hot Chocolate recipe is a creamy, rich, and comforting drink perfect for cozy evenings. Made from scratch with cocoa powder, a blend of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, and whole milk, it delivers deep chocolate flavor with a smooth texture. Enhanced by vanilla extract and customizable with optional toppings like whipped cream or marshmallows, this hot chocolate is an indulgent treat that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale

Hot Chocolate Base

2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or more to taste)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 pinch salt
4 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Add-ins

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup milk chocolate chips

Optional Toppings

Chocolate shavings
Whipped cream
Marshmallows
Sprinkles

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Instructions

Prep cocoa powder: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add 1/2 cup cold milk while whisking constantly until the cocoa mixture is fully dissolved and smooth.
Cook cocoa: Add the remaining 3 1/2 cups of whole milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, whisking constantly until it comes to a gentle simmer. Maintain the simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Add chocolate: Stir in 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips until fully melted. If the chocolate does not melt completely, gently warm the mixture over low heat without boiling to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and add optional toppings such as chocolate shavings, whipped cream, marshmallows, or sprinkles to taste. Serve warm at your desired temperature.

Notes

Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with any milk alternative if preferred.
Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar according to your taste.
Stir constantly while heating to prevent milk from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
Do not boil the mixture after adding chocolate to avoid seizing or grainy texture.
For a richer version, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.