There's hot chocolate, then there's dark chocolate hot chocolate. Rich, velvety and full of chocolate flavor, this isn't the packet mix you grew up with. The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients to whip it up at home in minutes.
Don't get me wrong, the good ol' powdered cocoa mix has its time and place, but when you want something really special, this dark chocolate hot chocolate is a great option. It's the perfect sweet treat to warm up after a chilly day!
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Hot Cocoa vs. Hot Chocolate
The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference:
- Hot cocoa is typically made with just cocoa powder, sugar, and milk.
- Hot chocolate uses actual melted chocolate for richness.
This recipe combines the best of both worlds by using dark cocoa powder and dark chocolate. Together they create the ultimate dark chocolate hot chocolate that's silky, creamy, and decadent.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what goes into making the best dark chocolate hot chocolate. For full measurements, see the recipe card below:
- Milk - Whole milk makes it extra creamy, but any kind works, even dairy-free varieties.
- Dark cocoa powder - Go with unsweetened dark cocoa powder (not hot chocolate mix). Dutch-process works great.
- Brown sugar - Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor. White sugar will work, but I love the richness the brown sugar gives.
- Dark chocolate - Look for chocolate with 60-70% cacao for a deep chocolate flavor that's not overly bitter. The higher the percentage, the more bitter the flavor. Bittersweet chocolate is typically 70% cacao while semi-sweet is around 60%.
- Vanilla extract - Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances out the bitterness.
Quick Tip - Chocolate bars usually to melt better than chips. Chocolate chips often have stabilizers added to help them keep their shape when heated. Chop up a chocolate bar for best results!
How to Make Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Add the milk to saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Making this easy hot cocoa from scratch on the stovetop gives the best flavor.
Be careful to not allow the milk to come to a full boil which can cause it to separate.
Step 2: Add the cocoa powder, salt and brown sugar and whisk until they dissolve into the milk. A pinch of salt may seem odd, but it boosts the chocolate flavor. It won't make the drink salty!
Step 3: More chocolate! Add the chopped chocolate and whisk until it's fully melted.
Step 4: Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract. Pour into 2 mugs and top with desired toppings.
Microwave Shortcut: Whisk the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and a splash of milk together in a large mug until smooth, then stir in the rest of the milk and chocolate chips. Microwave in 30 seconds bursts, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and the drink is hot. Finish with vanilla and your favorite toppings.
Hot Cocoa Topping Ideas
This dark chocolate hot chocolate is delicious on its own, but toppings make it extra fun. Create a hot cocoa bar with little bowls of mix-ins:
- Whipped cream (canned or homemade)
- Chocolate shavings (milk, dark, or white)
- Mini marshmallows or seasonal shapes
- Sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy
- Drizzled chocolate or caramel sauce
- Toffee bits
- Orange zest
- Pretzel rods, cookie sticks, or wafers for stirring
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a Mexican-style kick.
- A splash of Baileys, Kahlua, peppermint schnapps, or whiskey for an adults-only upgrade!
FAQ
Hot cocoa can turn grainy if chocolate seizes in boiling milk or cocoa powder isn't dissolved. Whisk cocoa with a splash of milk first, and melt chocolate gently over low heat for smooth dark chocolate hot chocolate. Lower quality chocolate can also cause this to happen.
For a balanced flavor, 60-70% dark chocolate works best. Lower percentages taste sweeter, while higher percentages give a more bitter, intense flavor which is great if you love bold chocolate!
Yes! Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat making sure to whisk well. Avoid microwaving it on high, which can scorch the milk or separate the chocolate.
You can, but it will be thinner and less creamy. For the best results, use high-quality dark chocolate and add a splash of cream or milk at the end.
Other Drink Recipes You'll Love
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Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Method
- Add milk to a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.2 cups whole milk
- Add cocoa powder, sugar and salt. Whisk for 2-3 minutes until smooth.2 tbsp. dark cocoa powder, 3 tbsp. brown sugar, pinch of salt
- Stir in chopped chocolate and whisk until fully melted.2 oz. dark chocolate
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, mini marshmallows or chocolate shavings.1 tsp. vanilla extract
Notes
- For extra indulgent hot chocolate, replace ½ cup of milk with heavy cream.
- Semi-sweet chocolate is typically around 60% cacao, while bittersweet is 70%. The higher the percentage, the more bitter and less sweet the flavor.
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