Description
A rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe made with whole milk, Dutch-process cocoa, and semisweet chocolate, topped with fluffy miniature marshmallows. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, this hot chocolate combines smooth textures and indulgent flavors for a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate bar, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows, plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Heat the milk mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, Dutch-process cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently to blend the ingredients smoothly. Heat the mixture until it is steaming and small bubbles form around the edges, taking care not to let it boil. This should take about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Add and melt chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the finely chopped semisweet chocolate to the hot mixture and stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety.
- Flavor and add marshmallows: Stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Then add 1 cup of miniature marshmallows to the mixture and let them sit for about 1 minute. Afterward, gently stir until the marshmallows become partially melted and fluffy.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and garnish with additional miniature marshmallows on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth.
Notes
- Do not allow the milk mixture to boil, as it can cause a skin to form and affect the texture.
- Use Dutch-process cocoa for a smoother, less acidic chocolate flavor.
- For a richer taste, use whole milk rather than lower-fat versions.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste depending on your preferred sweetness.
- To make this dairy-free, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk but note the flavor and texture may vary.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American