Indulge in French Style Hot Chocolate Bliss at Home
Why Make This Recipe
This French Style Hot Chocolate recipe is perfect for cozy nights or when you need a warm indulgence. It combines rich chocolate flavor with a light, airy meringue to create a delightful drinking experience. Making this treat at home allows you to enjoy a café-quality drink without stepping outside!
How to Make French Style Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Milk (Whole or dairy-free option like almond or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup High-Quality Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 cup Superfine Sugar
- 4 large Egg Whites (Room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
- 1/2 cup Superfine Sugar (for Meringue)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be used for variation)
- 1 teaspoon Citrus Zest (Lemon or orange zest)
- 1 splash Liqueur (Such as Frangelico)
Directions:
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Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot but not boiling.
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Mix Cocoa and Sugar: In a bowl, mix the cocoa powder and 1/4 cup of superfine sugar. Gradually stir this mixture into the hot milk, whisking continuously until well blended.
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Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer. Add cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
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Add Sugar: Gradually add 1/2 cup of superfine sugar while beating the egg whites. Keep mixing until stiff peaks form.
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Flavors: Gently fold in the vanilla extract, citrus zest, and a dash of liqueur into the meringue mixture.
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Combine: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top each with a generous dollop of the meringue.
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Finishing Touch: Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue for a beautiful finish, or place it under the broiler for a few moments to achieve a golden color.
How to Serve French Style Hot Chocolate
Serve your French Style Hot Chocolate in warm, festive mugs. Feel free to sprinkle some extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch. Enjoy it with some cookies or pastries for a delightful treat!
How to Store French Style Hot Chocolate
If you have leftovers, store the hot chocolate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the meringue topping separate as it will lose its fluffiness. Reheat the hot chocolate gently before serving again.
Tips to Make French Style Hot Chocolate
- Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipped.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor.
- Feel free to customize the liqueur based on your preference or omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
Variation
For a different flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cocoa mix for a spiced winter drink. You can also swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular milk instead of almond or oat milk?
Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, including whole, low-fat, or non-dairy options.
2. How do I know when the meringue is ready?
The meringue is ready when it holds stiff peaks and looks shiny. It should not fall over when you lift the beaters.
3. Can I make this recipe without liqueur?
Absolutely! You can leave out the liqueur for a non-alcoholic hot chocolate that everyone can enjoy.
French Style Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- In a bowl, mix the cocoa powder and 1/4 cup of superfine sugar. Gradually stir this mixture into the hot milk, whisking continuously until well blended.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer. Add cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of superfine sugar while beating the egg whites. Keep mixing until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the vanilla extract, citrus zest, and a dash of liqueur into the meringue mixture.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top each with a generous dollop of the meringue.
- Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue for a beautiful finish, or place it under the broiler for a few moments to achieve a golden color.