French Hot Chocolate
A rich cup of French hot chocolate warms you on cold days. It is thick, smooth, and easy to make with a few ingredients.
introduction
French hot chocolate is thick and very chocolatey. It uses real dark chocolate and warm milk for a deep taste. For a basic warming drink and more ideas, you can read this classic hot chocolate recipe and compare methods.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe when you want a simple, rich treat fast. It uses few ingredients you likely have. It feels special and is great for cold mornings or a quiet evening.
how to make French Hot Chocolate
Heat milk slowly and melt the chocolate into it. Stir until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Keep the heat low so the chocolate stays smooth. Pour into mugs and add whipped cream if you like.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups milk
- 6 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Directions :
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Heat until hot but not boiling.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired.
- Serve with cookies or festive treats.
how to serve French Hot Chocolate
Serve hot in small mugs. Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or grated chocolate. Serve with a cookie or a sweet loaf like chocolate chip banana bread for a full treat.
how to store French Hot Chocolate
Cool the drink a little, then put it in a covered jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave in short bursts, stirring often to keep it smooth.
tips to make French Hot Chocolate
- Use good dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Keep heat low to avoid scalding the milk or burning the chocolate.
- Stir well so the chocolate melts evenly.
- For a morning pairing, try this with apple cinnamon French toast muffins.
- Taste and add a small pinch of salt to boost the chocolate flavor.
variation (if any)
- Add a shot of espresso for a mocha style drink.
- Use milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
- Stir in orange zest or a drop of almond extract for a twist.
- Make it vegan with almond or oat milk and dairy-free dark chocolate.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk other than cow milk?
A: Yes. Almond, oat, or soy milk work fine. The taste will change a bit.
Q: How do I make it less thick?
A: Use a little more milk or a bit less chocolate to thin it.
Q: Can I use cocoa powder instead of chopped chocolate?
A: You can, but the texture and taste will differ. Use a mix of cocoa and a bit of cornstarch or use more sugar to balance.
Q: Is whipped cream needed?
A: No. It is optional. Whipped cream adds richness and looks nice.
French Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Heat until hot but not boiling.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired.
- Serve hot in small mugs with optional toppings like whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or grated chocolate.
- Pair it with cookies or sweet loaves such as chocolate chip banana bread.
- Cool the drink slightly, then store it in a covered jar in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave in short bursts, stirring often to keep it smooth.