Description
This creamy Homemade Hot Chocolate combines cocoa powder and real chocolate chips for a rich, velvety drink ready in minutes. Perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday gatherings, this recipe delivers indulgent flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. Easily customizable for vegan or dairy-free versions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups milk (preferably whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Place milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat and warm gently without boiling.
- Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add chocolate chips or chopped chocolate and continue whisking until melted and evenly blended.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if desired.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, or shaved chocolate.
Notes
- Use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Adjust sweetness by using dark chocolate or reducing sugar.
- Reheat leftovers over low heat; avoid boiling.
- Add flavors like cinnamon, peppermint, or caramel for variety.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 323 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 121 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 27 mg
Keywords: Homemade Hot Chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, winter drink, easy hot cocoa, hot chocolate recipe, chocolate beverage, rich cocoa drink