A rich and creamy homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe that is ready in minutes. Learn how to make real hot cocoa using staple kitchen ingredients.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.
There’s nothing quite like a steamy and cozy cup of homemade Hot Chocolate. All you need is some homemade whipped cream on top and you have the coziest warm winter drink
Hot Chocolate Recipe:
Just like homemade Apple Cider, This hot chocolate recipe is a favorite during the cooler months. This is the easiest recipe and takes just minutes on the stove. Enjoy your warm mug of hot cocoa, the ULTIMATE cozy drink that everyone will love!Â
Ingredients for Hot Chocolate:
There are just 5 ingredients needed for a classic hot chocolate mix.
- Cocoa powder – be sure it’s unsweetened
- Sugar – add granulated sugar to your desired sweetness
- Chocolate – melt in semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, chunks, or shavings for a rich chocolate flavor
- Milk – we use whole milk for a creamier consistency and it incorporates chocolate better than skim milk.
- Vanilla extract – use homemade vanilla for the best taste
For an extra rich and creamy hot cocoa: replace 1 cup of whole milk with a cup of half and half or heavy cream.
How to make Hot Chocolate:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cocoa powder. Add milk, chocolate chunks, and vanilla.
- Place over medium heat until steaming, whisking constantly to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Cool to desired serving temperature and serve with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tip: Cocoa and chocolate can settle at the bottom of the pot. Avoid burning your homemade hot cocoa by cooking it over medium heat and stir continuously.
Common Questions:
Since unsweetened cocoa powder naturally contains, caffeine, hot cocoa does have some caffeine which can give you a little energy boost. One serving contains about 12 mg caffeine. For reference, a cup of black coffee has 95 mg caffeine and black tea can have 25-50mg caffeine.
To make Mexican hot chocolate, you need additional spices: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Also, use bittersweet chocolate.
You can omit the cocoa and sugar if using a pre-made cocoa mix. I would suggest using 4 packets or 4 servings according to the package instructions.
Hot Chocolate Toppings:
The BEST part about homemade hot chocolate is the toppings and added flavors! We love to make a toppings bar, especially for the holidays and parties.
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint
- White chocolate
- Chocolate syrup
- Sprinkles
- Peppermint sticks
- Chocolate shavings
Nothing beats homemade hot chocolate on a cold day, except maybe hot cocoa and a warm slice of Banana Bread… Mmm.
How to reheat hot cocoa:
- Stovetop – Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warm, stirring frequently.
- Slow Cooker – When serving at a party, we love to keep hot cocoa warm in a slow cooker on the low heat setting.
What to serve with Hot Chocolate:
Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
A rich and creamy homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe that is ready in minutes. Learn how to make real hot cocoa using staple kitchen ingredients.
Prevent your screen from going dark
-
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cocoa powder. Add milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla and whisk together.
-
Place over medium heat and bring it to a light boil while stirring constantly. Be sure the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated.
-
Set aside to cool to your desired temperature and serve with your favorite toppings.
*For a richer and creamier hot chocolate, replace 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of heavy cream or half and half.Â
338kcal Calories39g Carbs10g Protein17g Fat
Nutrition Facts
Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
Amount per Serving
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
