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5 Ingredient Hot Chocolate Recipe

5 from 569 reviews

This rich and creamy 5 Ingredient Hot Chocolate recipe is a luxurious treat perfect for cozy nights. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, high-quality chocolate, and a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, it delivers smooth, intense chocolate flavor with a velvety texture. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s an indulgent and easy-to-make hot beverage.

Ingredients

Scale

Hot Chocolate Base

  • 2 and 3/4 cups (622ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (227ml) heavy cream
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 8 ounces (227g) high-quality chocolate (finely chopped; dark, bittersweet, or semi-sweet)
  • 1 Tablespoon (14g) confectioners’ sugar (use more for a sweeter drink)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Garnish

  • Whipped Cream
  • Chocolate Shavings

Instructions

  1. Heat the Dairy Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, and sea salt. Place over medium heat and cook until the mixture reaches a rolling simmer, ensuring it does not boil to avoid scorching.
  2. Melt the Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the finely chopped chocolate to the hot milk mixture and whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated.
  3. Thicken the Hot Chocolate: Return the saucepan to low heat. Stir in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Cook while whisking constantly for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and become smooth and velvety.
  4. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top generously with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings for a decadent finish. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor.
  • Adjust confectioners’ sugar to taste for sweetness.
  • Do not let the milk mixture boil to prevent curdling and burning.
  • Whisking constantly during the thickening step prevents scorching and ensures a smooth texture.
  • Optional cinnamon adds a warm spicy note that complements the chocolate.

Keywords: hot chocolate, 5 ingredient hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate recipe, chocolate drink, winter beverage, cozy drink