This Homemade Hot Chocolate is thick, creamy, and packed with rich chocolate flavor. Made with real cocoa and milk, it’s the perfect cozy drink for chilly days!
Author:Beth
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:2 servings 1x
Category:Drinks, Beverages
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American, European
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
½ cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped (optional, for richer flavor)
For Toppings (Optional):
Whipped cream
Mini marshmallows
Chocolate shavings
Cinnamon or cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions
Heat the milk & cream: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk and heavy cream until hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally.
Whisk in cocoa & sugar:Â Add cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk continuously until smooth and dissolved.
Melt the chocolate (optional):Â Stir in chopped chocolate and continue whisking until fully melted and creamy.
Add vanilla & serve:Â Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and pour into mugs.
Garnish & enjoy:Â Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent treat!
Notes
Dairy-free option:Â Use almond, oat, or coconut milk, and replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Spiced version:Â Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a Mexican hot chocolate twist.
Extra thick:Â Stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch while heating for a thicker, European-style hot chocolate.