Name: French Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60% cocoa), chopped; 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

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Introduction

French Hot Chocolate is a rich and creamy treat perfect for cozy afternoons or chilly evenings. Made with high-quality dark chocolate and a smooth blend of milk and cream, this indulgent drink is sure to warm you up and satisfy your sweet cravings.

A white saucer holds a dark brown cup filled with thick, glossy hot chocolate. On top is a generous swirl of white whipped cream dusted with cocoa powder. Some cocoa powder is scattered on the saucer. In the background, another dark brown cup with whipped cream is slightly out of focus. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a soft gray cloth under the saucer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60% cocoa)
2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the whole milk and heavy cream until just below boiling.
Step 2: Add chopped dark chocolate to the mixture, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in sugar and vanilla extract until dissolved; taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
Step 4: Whisk vigorously or use an electric frother to create a light froth on top.
Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use a chocolate with higher cocoa content for a more intense flavor or milk chocolate for a milder sweetness.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a seasonal twist.
For a vegan version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut or almond milk and use dairy-free dark chocolate.
Adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste, especially if your chocolate is very sweet or bitter.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain smoothness. Avoid boiling to prevent the chocolate from separating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white cup filled with thick, glossy dark hot chocolate that is slightly overflowing down the side. On top, there is a generous dollop of white whipped cream with smooth texture, drizzled with rich chocolate syrup that blends into the hot chocolate. Scattered over the whipped cream are small pieces of dark chocolate shavings. The cup sits on a white saucer with a subtle detail near the rim, placed on a soft beige fabric with a white marbled surface in the background, and a metal spoon is inserted into the drink. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier hot chocolate. Keep in mind it will be less intense and may need less sugar.

How can I make this drink dairy-free?

Replace the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, and choose dairy-free dark chocolate for the best results.