French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Warm welcome
This page shows an easy French Hot Chocolate you can make at home. It is rich, warm, and smooth.
introduction
French hot chocolate is thick and full of real chocolate. It uses heavy cream and good dark chocolate for a deep taste. If you want another hot chocolate idea, see a classic hot chocolate recipe that is lighter and quick to make.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a small treat that feels fancy. It is simple but tastes like a cafe drink. You can serve it with pastries or a light breakfast like apple cinnamon French toast muffins for a cozy brunch.
how to make French Hot Chocolate
This section tells the basic steps before the full directions. Heat milk and cream slow. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir until smooth. Add maple syrup, vanilla, and a little instant coffee for depth. Serve with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Ingredients :
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Directions :
- Finely chop 4 ounces of dark chocolate to ensure it melts quickly and evenly in the hot liquid.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of 2% milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir frequently and heat until the mixture just begins to bubble around the edges, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Reduce the heat slightly, then whisk in the chopped dark chocolate until it has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder. Remove the saucepan from heat once everything is well incorporated.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs or a pitcher for easy serving.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired, adding a luxurious finish to your French hot chocolate.
how to serve French Hot Chocolate
Serve hot in small mugs so the drink feels rich. Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top. You can also dust a little cocoa powder or cinnamon for extra smell.
how to store French Hot Chocolate
Cool leftover hot chocolate to room temperature. Store in a covered container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat and stir often. Do not boil when reheating.
tips to make French Hot Chocolate
- Chop the chocolate small so it melts fast and smooth.
- Heat milk and cream slowly to avoid scalding.
- Stir constantly when you add chocolate to keep it glossy.
- Use a little instant coffee to boost the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
- For a breakfast pairing, try this easy French toast to go with your drink: easy French toast recipe.
variation (if any)
- Make it extra rich by using more heavy cream.
- Use milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder drink.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a spiced version.
- For a vegan option, use oat or almond milk and a dairy-free cream.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: Yes. Milk chocolate will make a sweeter and lighter drink.
Q: Can I skip the espresso powder?
A: Yes. The espresso powder adds depth, but you can omit it.
Q: How can I make this for more people?
A: Double or triple the recipe. Heat in a larger pot and stir well.
Q: Can I add sugar instead of maple syrup?
A: Yes. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar to taste.
Q: Is this recipe safe for kids?
A: Yes, if you skip the espresso powder. Use lower sugar for young children.
French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Finely chop 4 ounces of dark chocolate to ensure it melts quickly and evenly in the hot liquid.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of 2% milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir frequently and heat until the mixture just begins to bubble around the edges, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Reduce the heat slightly, then whisk in the chopped dark chocolate until it has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder. Remove the saucepan from heat once everything is well incorporated.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs or a pitcher for easy serving.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.