Rich French Hot Chocolate
why make this recipe
This Rich French Hot Chocolate is thick, warm, and very chocolatey. It uses real dark chocolate and simple pantry items. It is great for cold days or when you want a treat. This drink builds on a classic hot chocolate recipe but feels richer and more special.
introduction
This hot chocolate is smooth and creamy. It uses milk, cocoa powder, and chopped dark chocolate for a deep flavor. You will heat the milk gently and melt the chocolate in it. The drink takes only a few minutes to make and feels luxurious.
how to make Rich French Hot Chocolate
Follow the steps below to make the drink. Work with low heat and stir so the chocolate melts evenly.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Directions :
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until dissolved.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately.
how to serve Rich French Hot Chocolate
Serve hot in small mugs. Add whipped cream or marshmallows on top. For a cozy snack, serve with a slice of chocolate chip banana bread or plain buttered toast.
how to store Rich French Hot Chocolate
Let any leftover hot chocolate cool to room temperature. Pour into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat and stir until smooth. Do not boil when you reheat.
tips to make Rich French Hot Chocolate
- Use good quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Warm the milk slowly to avoid scalding.
- Whisk the cocoa and sugar into the milk first so there are no lumps.
- For an extra touch, add a small pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder.
- Try this drink with other baked treats like apple cinnamon French toast muffins for variety.
variation (if any)
- Make it lighter: use half-and-half or a milk alternative like oat milk for a different texture.
- Make it richer: add a splash of cream or use more dark chocolate.
- Add flavors: orange zest, peppermint extract, or a little chili powder for a twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk alternatives?
A: Yes. Use oat, almond, or soy milk but heat gently as some plant milks separate if boiled.
Q: How do I make it thicker?
A: Add more chopped chocolate or a small splash of heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
Q: Can I make a larger batch?
A: Yes. Keep the same ratio of ingredients and heat gently. Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat slowly.
Q: Is cocoa powder required?
A: Cocoa powder boosts flavor but you can increase the chopped dark chocolate a bit if you skip the cocoa.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: You can, but the drink will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust sugar to taste.
Rich French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until dissolved.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately.