French Hot Chocolate
why make this recipe
French Hot Chocolate is rich and simple. It uses real dark chocolate and milk for a warm, creamy drink. You can make it fast on the stove. Many people love it for cold days or a quick treat. For a basic hot chocolate idea and similar recipes, see this classic hot chocolate recipe for more ways to enjoy warm cocoa.
introduction
This French Hot Chocolate is thick and smooth. It has real dark chocolate, a little sugar, and a pinch of salt. The drink feels rich and tastes deep. You will heat milk, melt the chocolate in it, and whisk until smooth. Top it with whipped cream and serve it right away.
how to make French Hot Chocolate
Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Do not boil the milk. Add the chopped dark chocolate, sugar, and salt to the milk. Whisk the mix constantly until the chocolate melts and the drink looks smooth and shiny. Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the hot chocolate into mugs. If you like, serve with a slice of warm bread or cake such as banana bread for a simple treat.
Ingredients :
- 4 cups milk
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream, for serving
Directions :
- Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
- Add chopped chocolate, sugar, and salt to the milk.
- Whisk constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and pour into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream and serve immediately.
how to serve French Hot Chocolate
Serve the drink hot in small mugs. Add a big spoon of whipped cream on top. You can sprinkle a little cocoa or cinnamon over the cream. Serve it with light cakes or muffins like apple cinnamon French Toast Muffins or with biscuits. Offer a spoon so guests can stir the cream into the drink.
how to store French Hot Chocolate
Cool the leftover hot chocolate to room temperature. Pour it into a sealed container and put it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep it smooth. Do not boil after reheating.
tips to make French Hot Chocolate
- Chop the chocolate small so it melts fast and evenly.
- Use good dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Warm the milk gently; avoid boiling to keep the milk smooth.
- Whisk well to make the drink silky and even.
- Taste and add a little more sugar if you like it sweeter.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla for extra flavor.
- Use half milk and half cream for a richer drink.
- Stir in a small splash of orange liqueur or peppermint for an adult version.
- Use milk chocolate for a milder, sweeter drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I use almond or oat milk?
A: Yes. Use a bar of dark chocolate that melts well. The texture may be lighter than whole milk.
Q: Can I make a large batch?
A: Yes. Multiply the ingredients and heat in a bigger pot. Keep the same gentle heat and whisk.
Q: How do I fix a grainy hot chocolate?
A: Heat gently and whisk well. If it is grainy, blend it with an immersion blender for a few seconds.
Q: Can I prepare the mix ahead?
A: You can melt chocolate into warm milk and cool it then refrigerate. Reheat slowly and whisk before serving.
Q: Is whipped cream needed?
A: No. It is a topping. The drink tastes great without it, but the cream adds a nice contrast.
French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Do not boil the milk.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate, sugar, and salt to the milk.
- Whisk constantly until the chocolate melts and the drink looks smooth and shiny.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream and serve immediately.