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Thick and Creamy Homemade Stovetop Hot Chocolate

Close-up of rich, steaming hot chocolate with foam in a textured blue mug, illuminated by sunlight.

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Make a rich, velvety hot chocolate on the stovetop using real chocolate for a luxurious winter drink.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium saucepan.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking often, until steam begins to rise and small bubbles form around the edges. Do not let it boil.
  3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the chopped bittersweet chocolate.
  4. Let the chocolate sit for 2 minutes without stirring.
  5. Whisk the mixture slowly until the chocolate is completely melted and the drink is smooth and uniform.
  6. Return the pan to low heat and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to slightly thicken the drink. Do not boil.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. Pour immediately into mugs and serve with your preferred toppings.

Notes

  • For a thicker texture, reduce the milk slightly or add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water before heating.
  • Use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, or semi-sweet for a sweeter drink.
  • For an adult version, add 1 ounce of dark rum or peppermint schnapps per serving after removing from heat.

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