A warm cup of decadent French hot chocolate topped with whipped cream

French Hot Chocolate

French Hot Chocolate is a rich, creamy drink that warms you up on cold days. It is different from regular hot chocolate because it uses real chocolate instead of cocoa powder. This gives it an intense chocolate flavor that is truly comforting.

Why make this recipe

Making French Hot Chocolate is a great way to treat yourself or impress guests. It is simple to prepare and offers a luxurious experience with its creamy texture and deep chocolate taste. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness to fit your liking. Enjoying a cup of this heavenly drink is like having dessert in a mug!

How to make French Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Heat whole milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming, but do not boil.
  2. Add finely chopped dark chocolate to the warm milk mixture and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
  3. Stir in granulated sugar until dissolved, then add vanilla extract for added flavor.
  4. Serve immediately in mugs, optionally topping with whipped cream or marshmallows.

How to serve French Hot Chocolate

Serve French Hot Chocolate hot in mugs. You can top it with whipped cream or small marshmallows for an extra special touch. Adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon can also enhance the flavor. Enjoy it as a cozy treat on its own or pair it with pastries or cookies for a delightful snack.

How to store French Hot Chocolate

If you have any leftover French Hot Chocolate, you can store it in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to ensure it is smooth.

Tips to make French Hot Chocolate

  • Use good-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. A higher cocoa percentage means a more intense chocolate taste.
  • If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar you add.
  • For a more indulgent treat, try using flavored extracts like peppermint or almond in place of vanilla.

Variation

You can make variations of French Hot Chocolate by adding different flavors. For example, try a pinch of sea salt for a salted chocolate version, or add orange zest for a citrus twist. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, for a unique taste.

FAQs

Can I make French Hot Chocolate vegan?
Yes! You can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream. Look for vegan chocolate to keep it dairy-free.

Can I make French Hot Chocolate ahead of time?
You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it before serving.

What can I pair with French Hot Chocolate?
It goes well with pastries, cookies, or even a warm slice of cake. Enjoy it with whatever sweet treat you prefer!

A warm cup of decadent French hot chocolate topped with whipped cream

French Hot Chocolate

A rich, creamy drink made with real chocolate for a luxurious experience perfect for warming you on cold days.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Hot Chocolate
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract You can replace with flavored extracts like peppermint or almond.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat whole milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming, but do not boil.
  2. Add finely chopped dark chocolate to the warm milk mixture and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
  3. Stir in granulated sugar until dissolved, then add vanilla extract for added flavor.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately in mugs, optionally topping with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 19gSodium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28g

Notes

If storing, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well.

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