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
Finishing & Garnish
Method
Hot Chocolate Base
- 1
Combine dry ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder until uniform and lump-free. This helps prevent clumps when added to the milk.
- 2
Warm milk and cream
Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Place over medium-low heat and warm gently until steam begins to rise and small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil), about 4–6 minutes.
- 3
- 4
Add chocolate
Add the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate to the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the hot chocolate is glossy and homogenous, about 2–3 minutes.
- 5
Season and finish
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired by adding up to 1 additional tablespoon of sugar, stirring to dissolve.
Finishing & Garnish
- 6
Serve
Divide the hot chocolate among four mugs (about 1 cup each).
- 7
Top and garnish
Top each mug with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of mini marshmallows. If using, dust lightly with ground cinnamon and/or chocolate shavings or a pinch of cocoa powder.
- 8
Optional variations
For a spiced version: add 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne with the cocoa. For mint: stir in 1/4 tsp peppermint extract instead of vanilla. For extra richness: use all heavy cream (reduce quantity to 2 cups cream) and follow the same method, warming more gently to avoid scalding.