Rich Hot Chocolate: A Simple Stovetop Delight (Print Version)
Whip up a comforting mug of rich hot chocolate. My simple stovetop recipe brings back childhood memories with every creamy sip.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
2 cups whole milk
02 -
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 -
2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar (to taste)
04 -
Pinch of salt
→ Flavor Boosters
05 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 -
1 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped (60-70% cacao)
→ Finishing Touches
07 -
Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional)
08 -
Extra cocoa powder for dusting (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get all your ingredients out on the counter. I always do this because, without fail, if I don't, I'll forget something crucial halfway through. Trust me, trying to chop chocolate with milk simmering is just asking for a mess! A little prep makes for a smoother rich hot chocolate making experience.
02 -
Pour the whole milk into a medium saucepan over medium heat. You're aiming for warm, not boiling! Keep an eye on it; if it boils, it can get a weird skin on top, and nobody wants that. I usually stir it gently to prevent sticking, and honestly, the smell of warm milk is already so comforting.
03 -
Once the milk is warm, whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and that tiny pinch of salt. Whisk, whisk, whisk! You want to get rid of any lumps. This is where I sometimes get impatient, but a smooth mixture is key for a velvety rich hot chocolate. Don't stop until it's perfectly combined!
04 -
Now for the good stuff! Add your chopped dark chocolate to the pan. Keep stirring until it's completely melted and incorporated into the milk mixture. The liquid will thicken slightly and turn a beautiful deep brown. Oh, the aroma at this stage is just heavenly, a true sign of rich hot chocolate coming to life.
05 -
Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract. Give it another good whisk to ensure everything is perfectly blended. You can let it simmer for another minute or two if you like it extra hot, but don't boil it after adding the vanilla, or the flavor can evaporate.
06 -
Carefully pour your glorious rich hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. This is the moment! It should be steaming, fragrant, and wonderfully smooth. I usually top mine with a mountain of whipped cream, but marshmallows or a sprinkle of cocoa powder are also fantastic. Take a deep breath, and savor that first sip!
# Notes:
01 -
Always use whole milk for the creamiest result; I learned the hard way that skim milk just doesn't cut it.
02 -
If storing, reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture; the microwave can make it separate.
03 -
For a dairy-free option, oat milk works surprisingly well, though it's a bit thinner.
04 -
Serving with homemade whipped cream and a tiny sprinkle of cinnamon makes it extra special for me.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Medium saucepan
02 -
whisk
03 -
mugs
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 250-350
Total Fat: 10-15g
Total Carbohydrate: 30-40g
Protein: 8-10g