Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Warm and rich, this homemade French hot chocolate melts slowly on the tongue and warms the heart.
introduction
French hot chocolate is thick, smooth, and very chocolatey. It uses real chopped dark chocolate and cream for a rich taste. For a simple guide to hot chocolate basics, see this hot chocolate recipe that shows common steps and tips.
why make this recipe
- It is fast and simple.
- It feels like a cafe drink at home.
- It uses few ingredients and great chocolate.
- It is perfect for cold days or a quiet treat.
how to make Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Make this by gently heating milk and cream, melting good dark chocolate, stirring until smooth, and adding vanilla. Work slowly and keep stirring so the chocolate blends well.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped (Choose chocolate with at least 60% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (Optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or marshmallows (Optional toppings), to taste
Directions :
Preparation:
- Chop the chocolate into small pieces so it melts evenly.
- Measure milk and cream.
Cooking:
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk and cream over low-medium heat. Do not boil.
- When the liquid is hot and steamy, remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate.
- Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mix is smooth. Add sugar if you want it sweeter.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Serving:
- Pour into mugs while hot.
- Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if you like.
how to serve Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Serve in small warm cups. Add a big dollop of whipped cream or a few marshmallows. You can also serve it with a baked sweet. Try pairing it with apple treats like these apple cinnamon French toast muffins for a cozy combo.
how to store Homemade French Hot Chocolate
- Cool the drink to room temperature.
- Put it in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Do not boil.
- If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk while reheating.
tips to make Homemade French Hot Chocolate
- Use good quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Chop chocolate small so it melts quickly.
- Heat milk slowly to avoid scalding.
- Stir constantly when adding chocolate to keep it smooth.
- For a richer taste, use a bit more cream.
- Serve with something chocolatey like a chocolate chip banana bread for an extra treat.
variation (if any)
- Spiced: add a pinch of cinnamon or a small dash of cayenne.
- Mocha: stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee.
- Lighter: use half-and-half or lower-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
- Vegan: use full-fat coconut milk and dark vegan chocolate.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: Yes, but it will taste sweeter and less intense. You may want to reduce added sugar.
Q: Why is my hot chocolate grainy?
A: Graininess comes from chocolate not melting fully or from overheating. Chop chocolate small and stir off heat until smooth.
Q: Can I make a large batch and reheat later?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge up to 2 days and reheat slowly on low heat, adding milk if needed.
Q: Can I make this without heavy cream?
A: You can, but cream adds richness. Using only whole milk makes it lighter.
Q: How can I make it extra thick like a pudding drink?
A: Use more chocolate and a higher cream ratio, or add a small slurry of cornstarch mixed with milk while heating.
Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Chop the chocolate into small pieces so it melts evenly.
- Measure milk and cream.
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk and cream over low-medium heat. Do not boil.
- When the liquid is hot and steamy, remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate.
- Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mix is smooth. Add sugar if you want it sweeter.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs while hot.
- Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if you like.