Homemade French Hot Chocolate
why make this recipe
This Homemade French Hot Chocolate is rich and smooth. It feels fancy but is easy to make. You can enjoy it on cold days or share it with friends. The drink uses real chocolate and cream for a deep, warm taste.
introduction
This hot chocolate is thick and silky. It uses semisweet chocolate, milk, and cream for a true French style. It takes just a few minutes to warm and mix. For a quicker or simpler version, you can look at an easy hot chocolate recipe to compare methods.
how to make Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Make this slowly and stir well. Heat the milk and cream first, then melt the chopped chocolate into the warm milk. Stir in sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt to boost the flavor. Serve right away for the best texture. If you want a cozy snack with it, serve with warm chocolate chip banana bread.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Directions :
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream over medium heat.
- Once the mixture is warm, add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Continue to heat the hot chocolate until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Pour into warm mugs. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a little grated chocolate. Serve with toasted bread, pastries, or simple cookies. A small glass of water on the side helps refresh the palate.
how to store Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Let the drink cool to room temperature. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat while stirring so it stays smooth. Do not boil after refrigeration, or it may separate.
tips to make Homemade French Hot Chocolate
- Chop the chocolate small so it melts fast and smooth.
- Heat milk and cream slowly to avoid scalding.
- Taste and adjust sugar if your chocolate is very sweet or very dark.
- For extra creaminess, use a small whisk or hand frother just before serving.
- Try it with baked goods like apple cinnamon French toast muffins for a nice breakfast pairing.
variation (if any)
- Use dark chocolate for a more bitter, deep flavor.
- Use milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder drink.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of orange extract for a twist.
- Make it boozy with a splash of rum or brandy for adults.
- For a dairy-free version, use oat or almond milk and coconut cream.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
A: Yes. Milk chocolate will make the drink sweeter and lighter.
Q: How can I make it thicker?
A: Use more chocolate or add a small spoon of cornstarch mixed with cold milk before heating.
Q: Can I make this in advance for a crowd?
A: Yes. Keep the hot chocolate warm in a covered pot on very low heat and stir now and then. Reheat gently if it cools.
Q: Is it okay to boil the drink?
A: No. Do not boil. Boiling can break the texture and make the chocolate separate.
Q: Can I sweeten with honey or maple syrup?
A: Yes. Replace the sugar with the same amount of honey or maple syrup, then taste and adjust.
Homemade French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat.
- Once the mixture is warm, add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Continue to heat the hot chocolate until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.
- Pour into warm mugs. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a little grated chocolate. Serve with toasted bread, pastries, or simple cookies.