Hot Chocolate Recipe

Chop chocolate

Finely chop the semi-sweet chocolate into small even pieces so it melts quickly and evenly. Set aside.

Combine dry ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar to remove lumps.

Warm milk and cream

In a medium saucepan, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat until small bubbles appear at the edges and steam rises (do not boil), about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

Add cocoa mixture

Whisk in the cocoa-sugar mixture into the warm milk until fully incorporated and smooth, about 30–45 seconds.

Melt chocolate

Reduce heat to low. Add the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and a pinch of sea salt. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula or whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is glossy and smooth, about 2–3 minutes. Keep temperature below simmer.

Finish and flavor

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding an extra 1/2 to 1 teaspoon sugar. If using peppermint or espresso add here (see Optional Add-ins).

Serve

Ladle the hot chocolate into warmed mugs and proceed to top as desired.

Whipped cream: Dollop or pipe whipped cream on top of each mug right before serving. If making homemade, whip cold heavy cream with a tablespoon of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla until soft peaks form.

Mini marshmallows: Sprinkle a handful on top of the whipped cream or directly into the hot chocolate so they melt slightly.

Chocolate shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to shave a chocolate bar and sprinkle shavings over the whipped cream for garnish.

Ground cinnamon: Dust a light sprinkle (about 1/8–1/4 tsp per mug) over the top to add warmth and aroma.

Peppermint: For a minty version, stir 1/2 teaspoon peppermint syrup or 1/4–1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract into the finished hot chocolate. Start with less—extract is potent.

Espresso: For a mocha-style drink, stir one hot espresso shot into a mug of hot chocolate before adding toppings.