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Hot chocolate recipe in a mug topped with whipped cream and candy cane
Jonas Mitchell

Classic Stovetop Hot Chocolate

Rich, creamy hot chocolate made with cocoa powder and real chopped chocolate — thicker and more chocolatey than cocoa alone, ready in about 10 minutes.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 345
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips, chopped fine
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream or marshmallows, for topping

Equipment

  • 1 small saucepan

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, and sugar over medium-low heat until smooth.
  2. Heat gently, whisking often, until steaming — do not let it boil.
  3. Add the chopped chocolate and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla and salt.
  5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Notes

Chop the chocolate fine rather than using whole chips for the smoothest texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days; reheat gently on the stove, whisking as it warms.