Description
This creamy and comforting hot cocoa recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering. Made with rich cocoa powder, sugar, and milk, this classic drink can be customized with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred; alternatives like almond or oat milk work too)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste; brown sugar or honey optional)
- 1 ounce dark chocolate (finely chopped, optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend Dry Mixture Into Milk: Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in the chopped dark chocolate until fully melted, then add the vanilla extract.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your hot cocoa and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Serve: Pour into your favorite mug, garnish with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For extra richness, replace ¼ cup of milk with heavy cream.
- To make it dairy-free, use almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a flavor twist.
- Store leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Hot cocoa, creamy hot cocoa, homemade hot chocolate, winter drinks, comfort beverages