Thick and Creamy Hot Chocolate Recipe

Don’t settle for just any hot cocoa recipe this winter! This thick and creamy hot chocolate is rich and hearty, and oh-so-decadent.

This thick and creamy hot chocolate recipe is the best thing since sliced bread, er, Swiss Miss. If you’re tired of the same-old watered down hot chocolate, then you’ve come to the right place.

Its ultra-rich taste and super smooth texture is similar to the luscious texture of the hot chocolate drinks that are served in cafes across Europe, like in Spain and Italy.

Ultimately, this ain’t your mama’s hot cocoa. It’s basically self care.

How to Make the Best Hot Chocolate

The most important part of this process is the ingredients. If you want to make hot cocoa with a super-thick texture, you’ll need good quality chocolate first and foremost.

This recipe calls for both chopped dark or bittersweet chocolate and cocoa powder. I recommend choosing chocolate that is at least 60% cacao for the best taste and texture.

You can use dark chocolate chips if you prefer, but I find that chopping your own chocolate (just like grating your own cheese) results in a much more velvety consistency.

As for the cocoa powder, you can feel free to use whichever brand that you like. I used Hershey’s dark cocoa powder in this recipe – it gives the hot chocolate the most intense flavor. So, so yummy.

To make a great cup of hot cocoa, you also need a liquid component, of course. I used evaporated milk for its creaminess. As you heat your hot chocolate on the stove, the evaporated milk helps to thicken the mixture, resulting in that super smooth texture that I keep mentioning.

Finally, vanilla extract, a little sugar, and a pinch of salt add flavor and sweetness to this dreamy cocoa concoction.

How do you make hot chocolate from scratch?

1. Place a medium sized saucepan on the stove and pour in the evaporated milk. Add the chopped chocolate and whisk gently until the chocolate starts to melt.
2. Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt until all of the ingredients have come together and incorporated into a chocolatey liquid.
3. Allow the hot chocolate to come to a simmer and heat for 5 minutes, whisking occasionally. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the hot cocoa to cool until palatable, around 5-10 minutes based on your preference.

Toppings for Hot Chocolate

While this mouthwatering hot cocoa is amazing all on its own, it’s even better when dressed up with a few enhancements. Try some of these options:

• Whipped cream – try my cinnamon whipped cream recipe for some extra flavor. You can also add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon while your hot chocolate is warming for a bit of Mexican-inspired warmth & spice!
• Mini marshmallows or homemade marshmallows in whatever flavor you like. Peppermint or raspberry flavored marshmallows make for a super festive display during the holidays.
• Chocolate chips or additional dark chocolate. I like to use mini chocolate chips to make it extra fun, but a sprinkling of freshly chopped chocolate or chocolate curls is so elegant!
• Dust some cocoa powder over top or sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top of your mug for some additional prettiness and holiday fun.

Did you try this recipe and love it? Don’t forget to come back and leave a review and star rating below!

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