Description
Enjoy a rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate, perfect for cozy evenings. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and optional garnishes like chocolate shavings or marshmallows, this delightful drink offers warmth and indulgence in every sip.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)
- Marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, pour in the 2 cups of whole milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Warm the milk gently, keeping an eye on it to prevent boiling.
- In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- Once the milk is warm (but not boiling), whisk in the cocoa and sugar mixture until fully dissolved and smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the hot chocolate mixture and stir well.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside while you prepare the whipped cream.
- In a mixing bowl, pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Chill the bowl in the freezer for about 10 minutes for better whipping.
- Add 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the heavy cream.
- Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
- Once you have soft peaks, stop mixing. The whipped cream should be fluffy and hold its shape.
- Pour the hot chocolate base into your favorite mugs, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Dollop or pipe the whipped cream generously on top of the hot chocolate.
- Optionally, sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder over the whipped cream.
- For an indulgent treat, add a few marshmallows on top of the whipped cream.
- Serve immediately while warm, and consider adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra sweetness.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with half-and-half or use a combination of milk and cream.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste, and experiment with flavored syrups for a fun twist.
- For a mocha flavor, add a splash of coffee or espresso to the hot chocolate base.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping.
- Store leftover whipped cream in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; whisk before using again.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes