Ingredients
Hot Chocolate
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 ounces top quality dark or bittersweet chocolate (at least 70%), chopped finely
- 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, according to taste)
- Tiny pinch of sea salt
For Serving
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the milk: In a medium saucepan, warm the whole milk over medium heat until it is hot and small bubbles start to appear around the edges, but do not let it boil.
- Add chocolate and salt: Add the finely chopped dark chocolate and a tiny pinch of sea salt to the hot milk. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Simmer to thicken: Bring the mixture to a very low simmer, whisking constantly to prevent scorching, and let it simmer gently for about 3 minutes. This step helps to thicken the hot chocolate, creating a luxurious, velvety texture.
- Sweeten and finish: Stir in the brown sugar if desired and whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth again.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into cups and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream if you like. Enjoy immediately for the best experience.
- Optional thickening tip: For an even thicker hot chocolate, prepare the drink ahead of time, let it cool, then reheat gently before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark or bittersweet chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best flavor and richness.
- Whisking continuously during simmering prevents the chocolate from burning or clumping.
- You can adjust sweetness to taste by varying the amount of brown sugar or omitting it altogether for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, but note this will alter the texture and flavor slightly.
- The tiny pinch of salt enhances the chocolate taste by balancing sweetness and deepening flavor.
- Serving with whipped cream adds a creamy contrast and extra indulgence but is optional.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French