Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 4 cups whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 3.5 oz. dark chocolate (60% cocoa), chopped into small pieces
Thickener and Flavor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Reserve milk: Set aside ½ cup of the whole milk to be used later for the cornstarch slurry.
- Heat chocolate mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 3 ½ cups of whole milk, salt, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Place over medium heat and stir constantly while bringing it to a simmer, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add dark chocolate: Stir in the chopped dark chocolate pieces into the simmering mixture. Continue stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and fully incorporated.
- Make cornstarch slurry: In the reserved ½ cup milk, thoroughly dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, stirring until no lumps remain to create a smooth slurry.
- Thicken the hot chocolate: While the chocolate mixture is still simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Keep stirring constantly as the mixture cooks for 1-2 minutes until it thickens to a rich, creamy consistency.
- Finish and serve: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor. Serve the hot chocolate immediately while warm and indulgent.
Notes
- This drink is perfect as is, but you can top it with chocolate shavings, mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra decadence.
- Keep the heat low when simmering the milk mixture to prevent scalding and ensure a smooth texture.
- After thickening, taste the hot chocolate and adjust sweetness if needed, adding more sugar to your preference.
- For a traditional Italian experience, serve the hot chocolate in smaller espresso cups to savor its intensity.
- Cornstarch slurry prevents lumping by dissolving the thickener into cold milk before mixing it into the hot liquid, ensuring a silky smooth final drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
