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Lemon Meringue Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4 from 30 reviews

This Lemon Meringue Hot Chocolate recipe combines the rich creaminess of white chocolate hot cocoa with the bright zestiness of lemon sugar and a light, fluffy lemon-scented meringue topping. The drink is heated gently on the stovetop to melt the chocolate and infuse the milk with lemon flavor, then topped with a torch-browned meringue for a decadent twist on classic hot chocolate. Perfect for a cozy yet refreshing treat.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients

Lemon Sugar

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • Zest from two medium to large lemons

Lemon Meringue Hot Chocolate (one serving)

  • 1 large egg, separated
  • 3 tsp lemon sugar, divided
  • 1/3 cup (40 grams) chopped white chocolate
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Pinch of kosher salt
  • Pinch of cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Make Lemon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with the zest of two lemons. Crush them together with your fingers until well combined and the zest oils permeate the sugar. Store the lemon sugar in a sealed container at room temperature for a couple of days to develop a pronounced citrus fragrance.
  2. Prepare Hot Chocolate Base: In a small pot over medium-low heat, whisk together the egg yolk and 2 teaspoons of the prepared lemon sugar until smooth. Add chopped white chocolate, whole milk, and a pinch of kosher salt. Continue whisking gently until the mixture is steaming and the chocolate has completely melted. Be careful not to let the mixture boil. Once warm, remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
  3. Make Lemon Meringue: In a clean bowl, add the egg white, 2 teaspoons of lemon sugar, and a pinch of cornstarch. Using a handheld electric mixer, whisk until the egg whites become glossy and stiff peaks form. Avoid overwhipping to prevent the whites from separating.
  4. Assemble and Finish: Pour the hot chocolate into a large glass or mug. Spoon the lemon meringue gently over the top. Use a kitchen torch to carefully brown the meringue surface. If a torch is unavailable, place the mug on a baking sheet under an oven broiler. Watch closely and remove once the meringue reaches a light golden color. Let cool slightly, then enjoy your lemony, creamy hot chocolate treat!

Notes

  • Whole milk is preferred for the creamiest texture, but other milk options can be used.
  • Lemon sugar is versatile and can be used on buttered toast, in tea, or for baking.
  • Do not allow the hot chocolate mixture to boil to prevent curdling.
  • Use fresh lemons for the best zest flavor in the lemon sugar.
  • Whisk egg whites just until stiff peaks form for best texture in meringue.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American