There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting mug of Creamy Homemade Hot Cocoa on a chilly day. This recipe combines rich cocoa powder, creamy milk, and a touch of sweetness to create the perfect drink. It’s quick, easy, and infinitely better than store-bought mixes!
📋 Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (whole milk for creaminess, but any milk will work) 🥛
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 🍬
- 1/4 cup heavy cream 🥛
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
- A pinch of salt 🧂
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream 🥛
- Mini marshmallows ☁️
- Chocolate shavings 🍫
- A sprinkle of cinnamon 🌿
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cocoa Mixture:
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat the Milk:
- Add milk:
- Add the milk to the saucepan and place it over medium heat.
- Whisk until smooth:
- Continue to whisk the mixture until the cocoa powder and sugar dissolve completely, and the milk begins to steam. Do not let it boil.
3. Add the Cream and Flavor:
- Add heavy cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue to heat for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Flavor:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Serve:
- Pour and garnish:
- Pour the hot cocoa into a mug and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
🍽️ Tips:
- Richness: For an extra-rich hot cocoa, use half-and-half or add a few pieces of chopped chocolate to the mixture as it heats.
- Non-dairy option: Substitute milk and cream with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter hot cocoa, add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 5 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 5 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 1-2 mugs
🔥 Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving (without toppings)
Enjoy this Creamy Homemade Hot Cocoa as a cozy treat, perfect for warming up on cold days! ☕🍫