What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional)
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour the milk into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Allow the milk to gently warm up, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Step 2: Add the Cocoa and Sugar
In a separate bowl, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
Once the milk is warmed but not boiling, gradually add the cocoa mixture to the saucepan, whisking continuously. Whisk until the cocoa and sugar are completely dissolved.
Step 3: Flavor and Serve
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir well to incorporate the flavor.
Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug. If desired, top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or a few marshmallows. You can also sprinkle some cocoa powder on top for an extra touch.
Enjoy your delicious homemade hot chocolate while it’s still warm!
Customization Ideas
While the basic recipe for hot chocolate is delightful, you can also experiment with some variations to suit your taste preferences:
- For a richer taste, you can replace some or all of the milk with cream.
- If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, use a higher percentage of cocoa powder or even try using dark chocolate shavings instead.
- Add a hint of spice by incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cocoa mixture.
- For a hint of indulgence, try stirring in a teaspoon of peanut butter or a splash of your favorite liqueur.
There you have it! Making hot chocolate with milk and cocoa is a simple and rewarding process. By following these steps and getting creative with your own additions, you can quickly whip up a delicious cup of hot chocolate perfect for any occasion!
So next time you’re looking for a hot beverage to warm you up, give this homemade recipe a try. We guarantee it’ll leave you feeling snug and satisfied!