How to Make Rich, Homemade Hot Chocolate Like a Café, on a Budget

According to the Family Magazine service of SaedNews, hot chocolate is essentially a rich version of cocoa milk. This delightful drink often includes finely chopped chocolate, chocolate chips, or even white chocolate. While it can be made with water, for the best hot chocolate, it’s recommended to use hot milk (preferably whole milk). Adding flavorings such as cinnamon and vanilla is also very popular.

Another key point about hot chocolate is that it usually contains less added sugar than regular cocoa milk because the chopped chocolate already has sugar in it. If you’re looking to make top-quality cocoa drinks at home, the following methods are ideal.

Method 1: Using Cocoa Powder

Ingredients

• Cocoa powder: 3 tablespoons

• Sugar: 3 tablespoons

• Milk (preferably whole): 1½ cups

• Water: ½ cup

Instructions

1. Mix the cocoa powder and sugar together.

2. Pour the water into a medium saucepan and wait until it begins to boil.

3. Add the cocoa-sugar mixture to the boiling water.

4. Once the cocoa and water are fully combined, add the milk and continue stirring over medium heat. Be careful not to let the milk boil.

5. When the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature, remove it from heat, pour into a cup, and enjoy.

You can also add a pinch of vanilla when serving. For extra flavor, try adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a bit of coconut powder to make your cup of hot chocolate more aromatic and unique.

Method 2: Using Cocoa Powder and Chocolate Chips

Adding chocolate chips makes the hot chocolate richer and more chocolatey. This version combines cocoa powder with chocolate chips.

Ingredients

• Cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon

• Sugar: 1 tablespoon

• Milk (preferably whole): 2 cups

• Chocolate chips: 2 tablespoons

Instructions

1. Heat your milk over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Using milk instead of water makes the drink creamier and more flavorful.

2. Add the cocoa powder and sugar to the milk and mix well.

3. Once combined and the milk is warm, add the chocolate chips and stir until melted.

4. Add a touch of vanilla before serving.

For a thicker hot chocolate, add an extra tablespoon of chocolate chips. If you prefer a less sweet drink, use darker chocolate chips or skip the sugar. If chocolate chips aren’t available, finely chop a chocolate bar and use it instead.

For extra flavor and aroma, add cinnamon or nutmeg to taste. In some countries, it’s also common to add a shot of espresso to your hot chocolate.

Suggested Add-Ins for Hot Chocolate

• Whipped cream

• Mini marshmallows

• Chocolate chips

• Caramel sauce

• Chocolate sauce

• Cinnamon

• Instant coffee or espresso powder

• Nutella

• Powdered milk