Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe (With Real Chocolate) (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret ingredient in gourmet hot chocolate? ›

The secret ingredient commonly used in gourmet hot chocolate is often high-quality, finely ground chocolate. This can be in the form of cocoa powder or finely chopped chocolate, adding a rich and intense flavor to the drink.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: a high-quality cocoa powder or cacao powder is essential. I highly recommend using Ghirardelli's 100% cocoa. I think it has the best flavor for hot chocolate (and trust me, I've tried quite a few!)

Hot chocolate, also known as hot cocoa or drinking chocolate, is a heated drink consisting of shaved or melted chocolate or cocoa powder, heated milk or water, and usually a sweetener. It is often garnished with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Hot Chocolate Flavor Variations

Here's a few fun and delicious ideas. Peppermint: Add one drop of peppermint extract into each cup. Boozy: Pour in a bit of bourbon or brandy for an extra fun night in. Salted Caramel: Dollop whipped cream (or coconut whipped cream) and drizzle salted caramel sauce over it.

What is Colombian hot chocolate? Colombian hot chocolate is made using a dark unsweetened chocolate bar like Luker or Corona. It's typically made in water instead of milk with a pinch of cinnamon and cloves.

So, the butter in this coffee is there to keep you fuller longer (so you don't crave a mid morning muffin), provide every cell in your body with the fuel it needs, AND to help this drink get nice and frothy.

The general rule of thumb is that the higher the percentage, the more cocoa mass, and cocoa butter are used, and the more bitter the chocolate tastes. Dark chocolate typically has a high cocoa percentage. This is because it does not have a lot of added ingredients like milk and sugar.

Cornflour/Cornstarch: Mix a small amount with cold milk or water to create a smooth paste. Whisk this into your hot chocolate towards the end of the cooking process until it thickens. Double Cream: Stirring in a splash of double cream can instantly enrich and thicken your drink, giving it a velvety texture.

Although hot chocolate doesn't necessarily need an even more creamy, decadent taste, using milk certainly enriches the experience. We suspect that milk adds a creamier taste than water alone, and when combined with the notes of chocolate, the smooth undertones of the milk simply add a delicious backdrop.

Who makes the best hot chocolate? ›

When it comes to hot chocolate, Starbucks is a personal favorite. While it might not have a blend of spices or be sourced from hard-to-reach locations, Starbucks' Double Hot Chocolate mix has a comforting familiarity while still being delicious.

The best type of milk for making hot chocolate is whole milk. This is because the higher fat content in whole milk creates a creamier and richer hot chocolate. However, if you are looking for a healthier option, almond milk or oat milk can also work well as they add a subtle nutty or oaty flavor to the hot chocolate.

Best Cocoa Powder to Splurge On: Valrhona Pure Cocoa Powder

For a next-level cocoa powder, our Test Kitchen recommends Valrhona Pure Cocoa Powder. Valrhona is a favorite among our pro bakers for its amazing texture. This cocoa is velvety and has a nearly creamy mouthfeel when stirred into hot chocolate.

It Started in Mexico. As early as 500 BC, the Mayans were drinking chocolate made from ground-up cocoa seeds mixed with water, cornmeal, and chili peppers (as well as other ingredients)—a much different version from the hot chocolate we know today.

Hot Chocolate is made using solid chocolate melted in warm milk or cream. Hot Cocoa, however, is made from a powdered base of cocoa with added sugar and dissolved in hot water or hot milk.

Ingredients: Hot chocolate gets its deep, chocolatey flavor from the base of thick, melted chocolate. Warm liquids like water, milk, or cream are added to make the drink liquid. Hot cocoa, however, is made from a powdered base of cocoa, sugar, and added flavorings.

Hot chocolate has been associated with improved mood and reduced stress levels due to its high cocoa content. The flavanols in cocoa have been linked to increased levels of serotonin, which helps to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. Additionally, theobromine in cocoa can help to reduce fatigue and improve alertness.