European Hot Chocolate is the ultimate treat when you need a cup of cozy! This recipe for hot chocolate with real chocolate, milk, a touch of cream, and is inspired by thick Italian hot chocolate.
1 1/2tablespoonscocoa powder(such as Dutch-process cocoa powder)
2tablespoonspowdered sugarto taste (see notes)
1tablespooncornstarchoptional (see notes)
3ozdark chocolate (70% cocoa)chopped
1ozdark chocolate (70% cocoa) shavings
whipped creamfor serving, optional (recipe below)
For Whipped Cream
1cupheavy creamchilled
2tablespoons powdered sugaror more, to taste (see notes)
1/4teaspoonvanilla extract
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Instructions
For the European-style Hot Chocolate
Pour the milk and heavy cream into a saucepan and place over medium-low heat. Slowly warm the milk until it is hot, but not boiling.
While the milk warms up, sift the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and cornstarch through a sieve and into a small bowl to remove any lumps.
When the milk is hot, whisk in the cocoa mixture, and continue to heat the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken, about 5 minutes. The cornstarch will add body to the cocoa, but be careful that you don’t allow it to cook for too long or it will be too thick.
Stir in the chopped chocolate and continue to whisk until the hot chocolate reaches your desired consistency. Taste the hot chocolate and sweeten to taste with additional powdered sugar, if you wish. Remove from the heat and divide the hot chocolate into two mugs.
Top the hot chocolate with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if you wish.
For the Whipped Cream
Chill the bowl and whisk of a stand mixer beforehand in the freezer, if possible, for at least 30 minutes prior to making the whipped cream.
Place the heavy cream into the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment. Whisk at high speed until peaks begin to form.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla and continue to whisk until the cream is soft peaks. Store in the refrigerator in an air-tight container until ready to serve.
Is this hot chocolate very sweet? This European-style hot chocolate is not very sweet, especially in comparison to American-style hot chocolate. It is very chocolate-forward, however, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more powdered sugar to suite your tastebuds! (This also applies to the whipped cream - feel free to whisk in more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter whipped cream.)
Do I need to use cornstarch? Many Italian hot chocolate recipes incorporate cornstarch to give the hot chocolate a silky thick consistency. But it certainly is not necessary! Feel free to omit it, but know that you won’t have as thick a hot chocolate.