The Best Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe​

Let’s face it—there’s hot chocolate, and THEN there’s hot chocolate. You know, heavy, thick and creamy hot chocolate that feels like a warm hug in a mug with marshamallows? The kind that makes those store-bought powder packets taste like absolute garbage? Yep, that’s what we are making today.

This hot chocolate recipe is extremely rich, velvety, and buttery. It’s also ridiculously easy. No weird ingredients, no shortcuts—just pure chocolatey goodness. If you are cuddled on a snowy night or just need a little ‘pick me up’ reminds me of Belgium, then this is the recipe you need.

And because I know you’re already wondering about dessert, I’ve got the perfect side dish: Crab Brulee. Yep, I said it. It’s like crème brulee but now poured up with sumptuous arbitrary seafood and magic. The custard is silky, slightly savory and has a caramelized sugar topping and it all mocks me next to a steaming mug of thick, homemade hot chocolate. If you haven’t tried it, believe me, you’re missing out.

So now, let’s start with that chocolate! Simmer it now!

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Why This Hot Chocolate Is the Best

Let’s be honest. For hot chocolate to be good it needs melted chocolate, cream and some time to prepare. There’s more to it than just cocoa powder. We are using real chocolate bars to get that nice, thick texture that hot chocolate is supposed to have. The result? Something in between a dessert and a drink.

Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Ultra-creamy texture – It’s thick, smooth, and richer than your favorite chocolate bar.
• Super chocolatey – Because we’re using real chocolate, not just cocoa powder.
• Customizable – Want it extra thick? Add more chocolate. Need it boozy? A splash of Baileys or whiskey will do the trick.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple. You probably have most of this stuff already:

The Essentials

• 2 cups whole milk – Keeps it creamy without being too heavy.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Because we’re here for maximum richness.
• 4 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped – The real star of the show.
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder – For that deep chocolate flavor.
• 3 tbsp sugar – Adjust to taste, depending on your chocolate.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a touch of warmth.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins (But Highly Recommended!)

• ½ tsp cinnamon – Adds a cozy kick.
• Marshmallows or whipped cream – Because duh.
• 1 shot espresso – If you like a mocha vibe.
• 1 tbsp peanut butter – Don’t knock it till you try it.
• A splash of bourbon, Baileys, or Kahlúa – You know… for extra warmth.

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What Are the Steps For Making Hot Chocolate?

Step 1: Heat the Milk & Cream

Heat the milk and the cream in a saucepan using medium heat. Ensure that the mixture is hot but that it is not boiling. Stir occasionally.

Step 2: Add Cocoa Powder & Sugar

Stir in the cocoa powder and sugar until completely dissolved. This step add richness in flavor to the hot chocolate.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Add Flavor & Serve

Add the vanilla extract along with a pinch of salt. Taste it and add sweetener if required.

Serve in mugs and garnish the drink with whipped cream or marshmallows. Enjoy!

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Pro Tips for the Creamiest Hot Chocolate

1. Use high-quality chocolate – Cheap chocolate = sad hot chocolate. Go for 70% cocoa or higher.
2. Don’t skip the salt – It makes the chocolate flavor pop.
3. Keep the heat low – Chocolate burns fast. Stir constantly to keep it silky smooth.
4. Blend it – Want that ultra-frothy café-style hot chocolate? Hit it with an immersion blender for a few seconds.

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Hot Chocolate Variations

Let’s have some fun with it!

Mexican Hot Chocolate

For an extra hint of spice and warmth, add cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Just pour in half a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne.

French Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud)

Use half-and-half instead of milk, and double the chocolate for that super thick Parisian-style drink.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Add a few drops of peppermint extract or drop in a peppermint candy. Instant holiday vibes!

White Hot Chocolate

Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate and add a little extra vanilla.

Nutella Hot Chocolate

Replace half the chocolate with Nutella for a creamy, nutty version.

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Which Chocolate Is Best For Hot Chocolate?

With a cocoa content of 70% or more, the best type of chocolate to use for hot chocolate is premium dark chocolate. It enhances the drink by leaving it’s taste intricate and profound without being overly sweet.

Here’s a quick guide to picking the right chocolate:

Best Chocolate for Hot Chocolate

• Dark Chocolate (70% or higher) – The best balance of richness and sweetness.
• Bittersweet Chocolate (60-70%) – Slightly milder but still packed with flavor.
• Semisweet Chocolate (50-60%) – Sweeter, great if you like a lighter taste.
• Milk Chocolate (30-50%) – Creamy and sweet but less intense.
• White Chocolate – Not technically “chocolate” (since it has no cocoa solids), but it makes a rich, vanilla-forward drink.

If you want French-style hot chocolate (super thick and indulgent), go for chocolate with 80% cocoa or higher. If you like a smoother, sweeter drink, mix dark and semisweet chocolate.

For best results, chocolate bars work more effectively than chocolate chips. Bars melt more smoothly compared to chips that have stabilizers which can change the texture.

What’s your go-to brand of chocolate? I would love to know; chocolate is a topic I could discuss forever!

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What Alcohol is Good in Hot Chocolate?

Oh, now we’re talking! Adding a splash of alcohol to hot chocolate takes it to a whole new level—warm, cozy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Here are some of the best boozy options to mix into your mug:

Best Alcohols for Hot Chocolate

• Baileys Irish Cream – Smooth, creamy, and a little sweet, Baileys makes hot chocolate taste like a dessert dream.
• Kahlúa – Coffee + chocolate? Yes, please. Kahlúa adds a subtle coffee kick that’s perfect for mocha lovers.
• Peppermint Schnapps – If you want a candy cane in a cup vibe, this is your go-to. It’s festive and refreshing!
• Rum (Dark or Spiced) – Adds warmth and a deep caramel-like flavor. Spiced rum, in particular, gives hot chocolate a holiday twist.
• Bourbon – Bold, slightly smoky, and pairs beautifully with dark chocolate. If you love whiskey and chocolate together, this one’s for you.
• Amaretto – Sweet, nutty, and smooth, amaretto gives hot chocolate an almond-kissed flavor that’s seriously addictive.
• Grand Marnier – Orange and chocolate are a match made in heaven. This citrusy liqueur gives hot chocolate a fancy, grown-up twist.
• Frangelico – A hazelnut liqueur that makes your hot chocolate taste like liquid Nutella. Need I say more?

How Much to Add?

A shot (around 1 to 1.5 ounces) per cup works well, but feel free to pour a little more—it is your hot chocolate after all!

For an even fancier version, finish it with whipped cream and drizzle some extra liqueur on top. It’s fancy and super yummy.

What is your favorite combination of alcoholic beverages and hot chocolate? Let’s share ideas!

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What to Serve with Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is basically dessert on its own, but if you want to go all out, here are some perfect pairings:

• Churros – Crispy, cinnamon-sugar goodness + chocolate = YES.
• Brownies – Because more chocolate is always a good idea.
• Shortbread Cookies – Buttery and simple, the perfect balance.
• Cheesecake – A creamy slice + a sip of hot chocolate? Heavenly.
• Crab Brulee – That salty-sweet caramelized top pairs perfectly with rich hot chocolate.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Chocolate

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Reader Feedback

Natalie M.“Last night I prepared hot chocolate in a new way, and WOW—it was unbelievably creamy! It was a delightful hug in a mug, and for that, I used 70% dark chocolate and a shot of Baileys. I am for sure not buying the ready mix ever again.”

Bobby S.“This recipe turns out too fantastic that it puts you at risk. When I made this, I added a combination of dark and semi-sweet chocolate with some spiced rum. Everyone in my family loved it. And that tip about blending it? Wow”

Your feedback means the world to us! Have you tried this rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear your thoughts, any fun add-ins you tried, or how you served it. Your tips help everyone who reads them!

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And that’s how you make the easiest hot chocolate! It’s rich in taste and creamy like nothing else. While I always used to prejudiced against instant hot chocolate, ever since I made this, I can assure you it’s better in every way. So grab your favorite mug, brew a fresh batch, and enjoy.

The combination of hot chocolate and Crab Brulee on the side makes it intolerable to resist. It’s unbelievable it is the most mouthwatering compliment.

So, who wants a cup?