Indulge in a warm and cozy cup of homemade hot chocolate with this classic recipe. Made with chocolate, milk, and a touch of sugar, this hot chocolate is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Perfect for a cold winter's day or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe will surely warm your heart and satisfy your chocolate cravings. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy it anytime!
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
- Slowly add the cocoa mixture to the hot milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the vanilla extract and chocolate chips.
- Continue whisking until the chocolate chips are melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Hot chocolate has been enjoyed for centuries and has been a popular beverage since the time of the Aztecs.
The first hot chocolate recipe in America was published by the British physician, Sir Hans Sloane, in the late 17th century.
Hot chocolate is known for its mood-boosting properties due to the presence of serotonin and other feel-good chemicals in cocoa.
Cocoa powder used in hot chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which have various health benefits.
The addition of chocolate chips to this recipe gives the hot chocolate an extra chocolatey and indulgent flavor.