Delicious Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
This homemade hot chocolate is creamy, thick, and flavorful, made with both melted chocolate and cocoa powder. It’s a perfect cozy treat for a cold day!
Why This Hot Chocolate Recipe is Special
This hot chocolate recipe is so much better than a powdered mix! Made with two types of chocolate—a chopped bar and cocoa powder—it’s deliciously rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s super easy to make too—it comes together with 5 simple ingredients in under 10 minutes.
We’ve already made this homemade hot chocolate a few times this December, and it will surely stay on repeat all month long. It’s the perfect warming treat for chilly winter nights, especially for those who love cozying up under the Christmas tree with a mug to sip.
Enjoy it plain, or top it with whipped cream, marshmallows, and/or shaved chocolate. We hope you love this hot chocolate recipe as much as we do!
Homemade Hot Chocolate Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 2 cups (any type, whole milk recommended for creaminess) |
| Chopped dark chocolate | 4 oz (70% cacao for rich flavor) |
| Cocoa powder | 2 tbsp |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp (or 2 tbsp maple syrup for natural sweetening) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make Hot Chocolate
This recipe is super easy to make!
- Dissolve the sugar and cocoa powder. Combine all three in a medium saucepan, cooking over medium heat until smooth and heated through, around 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the chopped chocolate. Reduce the heat to low and whisk until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Add vanilla and season to taste. Stir in more sugar for sweetness or a pinch of salt to balance flavors.
That’s it!
Recipe Tips
- Don’t let it come to a boil. Avoid boiling the chocolate; otherwise, it could separate and become grainy.
- Variations are welcome. Add a drop of peppermint extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a shot of espresso for a richer flavor!
Ways to Serve Hot Chocolate
You don’t need to serve this cozy drink with anything extra—it’s decadent and delicious on its own. However, here are some toppings that make it even more fun, especially around the holidays:
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows or mini marshmallows
- Mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
- Candy canes
- Cinnamon sticks
How do you like to serve homemade hot chocolate? Share in the comments!
More Cozy Drinks
If you love this recipe, try one of these cozy drinks next:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes homemade hot chocolate different from a mix?
Homemade hot chocolate uses real chocolate and cocoa powder, creating a richer flavor and creamier texture compared to store-bought mixes that often contain preservatives and artificial flavors.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes! Almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk works perfectly in this recipe. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
How can I customize my hot chocolate?
You can customize your hot chocolate by adding flavors like peppermint or cinnamon, and by adding toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.