Why You’ll Love Homemade Hot Chocolate (The Kitchn‑Style) Recipe
This hot chocolate is rich, velvety, and made with real chocolate — not powdered mix. The combination of unsweetened chocolate and semi‑sweet chocolate melted into warm milk creates a luxurious drink that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or serving to friends and family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Whole or 2% milk
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Unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
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Semi‑sweet chocolate
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Sugar (if desired for extra sweetness)
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A pinch of salt (optional)
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Vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
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Pour the milk into a saucepan and warm over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
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Add the chopped unsweetened and semi‑sweet chocolate to the warm milk.
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Stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Taste and add sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink; stir until dissolved.
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Optionally add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir and serve immediately while hot.
Servings and timing
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Servings: About 4 cups (serves 4)
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Prep: 2 minutes
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Cook: 6–8 minutes
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Total: About 10 minutes
Variations
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Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a small piece of orange peel while warming the milk.
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Mint: Stir in a drop of peppermint extract at the end for a mint chocolate twist.
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Extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half‑and‑half near the end.
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Marshmallow topping: Add marshmallows or whipped cream before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly so it warms evenly and doesn’t scorch. If the drink thickened in the fridge, add a splash of milk while reheating.
FAQs
What kind of chocolate should I use?
For the best results, use good‑quality unsweetened and semi‑sweet chocolate bars that melt smoothly.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of chopped chocolate?
Yes — mixing a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder with milk and sugar can make a similar drink, though the texture will be a bit different.
Is this the same as hot cocoa?
Hot chocolate is typically made with melted chocolate, giving it a richer texture, while hot cocoa uses cocoa powder and is a bit lighter.
Can I make it dairy‑free?
You can substitute plant milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk; just keep in mind the texture and flavor will change.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Heat the milk on low in a slow cooker and add the chocolate later, stirring to melt.
How sweet should it be?
That’s up to you — start with less sugar and add more if you prefer it sweeter.
Can I add spices?
Absolutely — cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, or even chili powder can add a fun twist.
Why isn’t my chocolate melting?
Make sure the milk is hot (not boiling) and stir constantly to help the chocolate melt smoothly.
Can I top it with whipped cream?
Yes! Whipped cream, marshmallows, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder are great toppings.
Can I reheat it in the microwave?
Yes — heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
Conclusion
This homemade hot chocolate is a rich, comforting treat that elevates the classic warm drink by using real chocolate and simple ingredients. Whether you serve it on a cold day or at a cozy gathering, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a chocolatey beverage made from scratch.
Homemade Hot Chocolate (The Kitchn‑Style)
A rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe made with real chocolate and milk, perfect for cozy winter days or as a comforting treat any time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk, or any milk of choice
- 2 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until warm and combined.
- Add the chopped chocolate and whisk until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if using.
Notes
- You can use dairy-free milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk.
- Adjust the sweetness and chocolate intensity to taste by varying the chocolate or sugar amounts.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of peppermint extract.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
