The Ultimate Creamy Homemade Hot Cocoa
Make rich and creamy hot cocoa from scratch using this simple stovetop recipe. This guide also includes instructions for a shelf-stable mix and slow cooker variations.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Total Time: 15 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup hot water (for blooming cocoa)
Instructions
- Combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Pour the hot water over the dry ingredients and whisk until a smooth, thick paste forms. This step blooms the cocoa for deeper flavor.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until fully combined.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it is hot and steaming but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the milk with heavy cream.
- To make a shelf-stable mix: Whisk together 1 cup cocoa powder, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Store in an airtight container. Use 1/4 cup of the mix per 1 cup of milk when preparing.
- For slow cooker hot chocolate for a crowd: Triple the main recipe ingredients and heat on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Mexican hot chocolate flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 25
Find it online: https://recipesfleet.com/homemade-hot-cocoa-recipe/