Creamy French Hot Chocolate Recipe
why make this recipe
This Creamy French Hot Chocolate Recipe gives a thick, smooth drink that feels like a treat. It uses real dark chocolate and cream for a rich taste. Make it when you want something warm and special that is easy to make at home.
introduction
This drink is a rich, smooth mix of dark chocolate and cream that feels like a small luxury. For a basic guide to hot chocolate ideas and variations, read this simple hot chocolate recipe. The drink is quick to make and great for cold nights.
how to make Creamy French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Heat the milk and cream slowly and melt the dark chocolate into them. Whisk until the mix is smooth and glossy. Stir in vanilla and a little coffee powder to lift the chocolate taste. Taste and add sugar if you want it sweeter. Serve hot with whipped cream if you like.
Ingredients :
1 1/4 cups whole milk, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 4 oz dark chocolate, 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder, Sugar to taste (add as needed), Whipped cream for garnish
Directions :
Place the whole milk and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Heat gently to avoid scalding, stirring occasionally to warm the mixture evenly.
Add the dark chocolate to the warm milk and cream mixture. Whisk continuously over low heat until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Once the chocolate has melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and instant coffee or espresso powder until fully incorporated and dissolved.
Taste the hot chocolate and add sugar gradually according to your preference. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
Pour the rich hot chocolate into small cups. Optionally, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an extra luxurious finish. Serve immediately while hot.
how to serve Creamy French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Serve in small cups while it is hot. Top with a spoon of whipped cream or a light dusting of cocoa powder. For a cozy meal, serve this drink next to a warm bowl or bread, such as a creamy fall soup or a sweet bread.
how to store Creamy French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Cool the hot chocolate to room temperature. Pour into a covered jar or container. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat and stir. Do not boil after storage to keep the cream smooth.
tips to make Creamy French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Use good dark chocolate for the best flavor. Heat on low and stir often to avoid burning. Add the coffee powder to deepen the chocolate taste but start small. For a breakfast treat, you can serve with apple cinnamon French toast muffins to balance the rich drink.
variation (if any)
- Make it spiced: add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Make it extra rich: use more heavy cream and less milk.
- Make it lighter: use milk only and a bit less chocolate.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use milk other than whole milk?
A: Yes. You can use 2% or plant milk, but the drink will be less rich.
Q: Can I skip the coffee or espresso powder?
A: Yes. The coffee just boosts the chocolate flavor. Skip it if you prefer pure chocolate.
Q: How can I make it less sweet?
A: Use dark chocolate with higher cocoa percent and add no extra sugar. Taste as you go.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make the base, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat slowly before serving.
Creamy French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Place the whole milk and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Heat gently to avoid scalding, stirring occasionally to warm the mixture evenly.
- Add the dark chocolate to the warm milk and cream mixture. Whisk continuously over low heat until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once the chocolate has melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and instant coffee or espresso powder until fully incorporated and dissolved.
- Taste the hot chocolate and add sugar gradually according to your preference. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Pour the rich hot chocolate into small cups. Optionally, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an extra luxurious finish. Serve immediately while hot.