Description
Indulge in a rich and creamy European-style hot chocolate that perfectly balances deep cocoa flavors with a smooth, velvety texture. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, Dutch-process cocoa powder, and premium dark chocolate, this luxurious drink is topped with freshly whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra touch of decadence. Perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions, this recipe delivers classic comfort in a cup.
Ingredients
Scale
For European-style Hot Chocolate
- 1 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
- 3 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- 1 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), shavings
- Whipped cream for serving (optional, recipe below)
For Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar or more, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm the Milk and Cream: Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a saucepan and place over medium-low heat. Slowly warm the mixture until it is hot but not boiling, preparing it as the base for the hot chocolate.
- Prepare Cocoa Mixture: While the milk heats, sift together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and cornstarch through a sieve into a small bowl to remove lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Combine and Thicken: Whisk the cocoa mixture into the hot milk. Continue heating and whisking constantly for about 5 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken slightly, being careful not to overcook the cornstarch to avoid an overly thick consistency.
- Add Dark Chocolate: Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and continue whisking until fully melted and the hot chocolate reaches your preferred richness and consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness with additional powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve: Remove from heat and pour the hot chocolate evenly into two mugs. Top with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings if desired for an elegant finish.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: For optimal results, chill the mixer bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for at least 30 minutes prior. Pour the chilled heavy cream into the bowl and whisk at high speed until soft peaks form.
- Sweeten and Flavor: Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to whisk until soft peaks hold. Store the whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use Dutch-process cocoa powder for richer flavor and smoother texture.
- Cornstarch is optional and helps thicken the hot chocolate; omit if you prefer a thinner drink.
- Adjust powdered sugar according to your preferred sweetness level in both the hot chocolate and whipped cream.
- Chilling your mixer bowl and whisk helps achieve better whipped cream volume and texture.
- Consume the hot chocolate immediately for best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
