A mug of this luxurious, homemade hot chocolate, made with REAL chocolate, is pure bliss!
It's the perfect balance between the famously thick Italian hot chocolate and classic cocoa - smooth, rich and wonderfully creamy.
Though it can be enjoyed throughout the year or anytime you need a hug-in-a-mug, it makes the perfect Christmas hot chocolate to wind down the day.
Add a dash of Baileys or pile it high with whipped cream and marshmallows.
This rich hot chocolate pairs perfectly with velvety rum truffles. If you love creamy drinks, be sure to try this refreshing strawberry lassi or this iced coffee with condensed milk.
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What's to love about this recipe
- Made with real chocolate for a rich, creamy texture.
- Much better than store-bought mixes.
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 5 minutes.
- Top with whipped cream, marshmallows or any of your favourite toppings.
- Add a shot of Baileys for a boozy twist.
Key Ingredient notes and substitutions
Milk
We use full-fat (whole) milk. Semi-skimmed works as a decent alternative, but skimmed milk just won’t cut it – it’ll be too thin and disappointing.
Chocolate
Both milk chocolate and dark chocolate work wonderfully. Choose your favourite, but note that dark chocolate can make it a little stronger and might not be as popular with kids.
The better the chocolate, the richer and more delicious your drink will be.
Avoid baking chocolate or chocolate chips, as they may not melt as smoothly.
Cocoa powder
For best results, use a high-quality Dutch-processed, 100% unsweetened cocoa powder like Valrhona, Callebaut or Ghiradelli. The quality makes a noticeable difference.
White sugar
You can also use caster sugar or light brown sugar as alternatives.
Cornstarch
We're adding just enough cornflour to help thicken the chocolate. Don't worry, you won't taste it!
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Step-by-step instructions
1. In a small bowl, combine the cornflour with about 3 tablespoons of the milk. Whisk until smooth and lump-free, then set aside.
2. In another small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
3. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cocoa and sugar mixture. Continue whisking for 1 minute until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
5. Stir in the cornflour slurry and whisk vigorously for 1 minute until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Finally, add in the roughly chopped chocolate pieces.
7. Keep whisking for 1–2 minutes until the chocolate has melted completely and the hot chocolate is thick and glossy.
Pour into a mug immediately and finish with whipped cream or your favourite toppings.
Top Tips
Keep whisking: Whisk vigorously and continuously when adding the cornflour slurry to prevent lumps.
If lumps form, a quick blend with a stick blender will make the hot chocolate smooth again.
Don’t let it boil: Overheating the milk can scald it or cause it to develop a skin. Keep the heat low and consistent after the initial boil.
Warm the mug: Pour hot water into your mug and let it sit while you prepare the drink. Empty it before pouring in your hot chocolate to keep it warm longer.
Variations and toppings
- Top with whipped cream, then cocoa powder or salted caramel sauce.
- Add Baileys, Frangelico or Amarula for a boozy twist.
- Add a pinch of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg or a star anise.
- Add vanilla extract or a pinch of salt for extra depth.
- Top with toasted marshmallows or stir in peanut butter for a nutty flavour.
- Hook candy canes on the rim for a festive touch.
Storage and reheating
Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
It will thicken as it cools, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave
Recipe
Homemade Hot Cocoa - Extra thick!
Equipment
- 1 saucepan
Ingredients
For the hot chocolate
- 240 millilitres (1 US cup) milk - full fat or semi-skimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 100 grams (3.5oz) milk chocolate, roughly chopped
- 1½ teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the cornflour with about 3 tablespoons of the milk you've measured out. Whisk until smooth and lump-free, then set aside.1½ teaspoons cornstarch, 240 millilitres (1 US cup) milk
- In another small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons sugar
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cocoa and sugar mixture. Continue whisking for 1 minute until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Stir in the cornflour slurry and whisk vigorously for 1 minute until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Finally, add in the roughly chopped chocolate pieces. Keep whisking for 1–2 minutes until the chocolate has melted completely and the hot chocolate is thick and glossy.100 grams (3.5oz) milk chocolate, roughly chopped
- Pour into a mug immediately and finish with whipped cream or your favourite toppings.
Notes
Top Tips
Keep whisking: Whisk vigorously and continuously when adding the cornflour slurry to prevent lumps. If lumps form, a quick blend with a stick blender will make the hot chocolate smooth again. Don’t let it boil: Overheating the milk can scald it or cause it to develop a skin. Keep the heat low and consistent after the initial boil. Warm the mug: Pour hot water into your mug and let it sit while you prepare the drink. Empty it before pouring in your hot chocolate to keep it warm longer.**Nutritional data disclaimer**
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is calculated by a third party and we cannot guarantee the accuracy. We try our best to give you the most accurate information, but we do not take responsibility for errors that may be present. Also, the nutritional value of the recipe may change depending on the exact brands and products used. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised advice on your dietary needs.
Nutrition
For food safety advice, including guidance on food allergies
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