Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Hot Chocolate Base
Optional Garnishes
Method
Hot Chocolate Base
Combine dairy
In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Place over medium-low heat.
Whisk in dry ingredients
Whisk in 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar until dissolved and there are no dry lumps.
Heat gently
Heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles form around the edges and steam rises — do not boil (about 5–7 minutes).
Melt chocolate
Reduce heat to low. Add 4 ounces chopped semisweet chocolate and the pinch of salt. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, about 2–3 minutes.
Finish and flavor
Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired — add up to 1 tablespoon extra sugar if you prefer sweeter hot chocolate.
Serve
Ladle the hot chocolate into 4 warmed mugs (about 1¼ cups each).
Optional Garnishes
Top each mug with a spoonful of whipped cream and a handful of mini marshmallows if desired.
Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or cocoa, and finish with 2 tablespoons chocolate shavings divided among the mugs.