Italian Hot Chocolate
Italian Hot Chocolate is a rich, creamy, and decadent beverage known for its thick, velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor. Perfect for cozy winter days or festive occasions, this luscious drink combines simple ingredients like full-fat milk, high-quality cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and a touch of thickener to create a luxurious and comforting treat that feels like a warm hug in a cup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat milk (or milk alternative for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened high-quality cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or all-purpose flour
- 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm the Milk: Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and heat gently over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling, to avoid scorching.
- Mix Cocoa and Thickener: In a small bowl, blend the cocoa powder, sugar, and cornstarch or flour thoroughly. This dry mix will dissolve smoothly into the milk without lumps.
- Combine and Stir: Gradually whisk the cocoa mixture into the warm milk. Stir constantly to activate the thickener and ensure the cocoa fully blends in, creating a smooth texture.
- Add Dark Chocolate and Vanilla: Once the mixture starts to thicken, stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted. Add the vanilla extract last to balance and elevate the flavor.
- Serve Warm: Pour into cups immediately and enjoy your Italian Hot Chocolate fresh for the best indulgent experience.
Notes
- Heat the milk slowly over low heat to prevent burning and achieve a silky smooth texture.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate to significantly enhance the flavor.
- Whisk constantly as the mixture thickens to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Adjust the sugar amount to suit your preferred sweetness level.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the drink at its richest and warmest.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240 ml)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Italian hot chocolate, thick hot chocolate, creamy hot cocoa, dark chocolate drink, winter beverage, comforting chocolate drink
Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/italian-hot-chocolate/