Name: Decadent Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1¼ cups Whole Milk; 1/3 cup Heavy Cream (or same amount of milk); 3.5 oz Dark Chocolate, chopped (use high-quality); ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract; Pinch of Salt

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Introduction

This classic hot chocolate recipe, known as Chocolat Chaud, is rich, silky, and deeply chocolatey. It’s the perfect comforting drink for chilly days or whenever you need a sweet treat that warms you from the inside out.

The image shows a close-up of a small ornate white cup with gold trim and floral designs in red and yellow, filled with smooth, thick chocolate pudding. A woman's hand holds a silver spoon above the cup, allowing some pudding to drip back into it. The cup sits on a matching white saucer with the same floral pattern. In the background, there is another similar cup with chocolate pudding and a white bowl topped with whipped cream, all placed on a white marbled surface. A white cloth with black stripes is also partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1¼ cups whole milk
1/3 cup heavy cream (or same amount of milk)

3.5 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.

Step 2: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the hot milk mixture. Whisk gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk well to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and let the hot chocolate simmer gently for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly and becomes silky.

Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into small cups or mugs and serve immediately. Optionally, top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with almond or oat milk, but expect a different texture.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
If you like, stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee to deepen the chocolate flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain the smooth texture. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.

How to Serve

A white tea cup with a floral pattern of red and yellow roses and green leaves, trimmed with gold on the handle, base, and rim, is filled with thick, rich brown chocolate. A woman's hand holds a silver spoon above the cup, lifting smooth chocolate that drips back into the cup. The cup sits on a matching white saucer with the same floral design, all placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. In the background, another matching teacup and saucer filled with similar chocolate and a cup topped with white whipped cream are softly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the hot chocolate will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust the amount of sugar accordingly if you prefer less sweetness.

How can I make the hot chocolate thicker?

Simmer the mixture for a bit longer to allow it to reduce and thicken, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a little cold milk) at the simmering stage while whisking constantly.