Hot Chocolate Recipe
Make Hot Chocolate Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Hot Chocolate Base
Optional Toppings & Add-ins
Method
Hot Chocolate Base
Warm the milk and cream
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles form around the edge and the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 5–7 minutes).
Bloom the cocoa
Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar until fully incorporated and smooth, about 30–45 seconds. This helps disperse the cocoa and dissolve the sugar.
Add chocolate
Reduce heat to low. Add the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate to the warm milk mixture. Let sit for 30 seconds, then whisk gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and slightly glossy (about 1–2 minutes).
Season and finish
Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of fine sea salt. Taste and adjust sweetness, adding up to 1 additional teaspoon of sugar if desired. Keep the mixture on low heat until hot but do not boil (another 1–2 minutes).
Serve and Garnish
Divide the hot chocolate between two heatproof mugs (approximately 1 cup each).
Top each mug with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of mini marshmallows, if using.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg and add chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for garnish.
If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of flavored liqueur per mug for an adult version. Serve immediately.