Description
This recipe for Luxuriously Thick Italian Hot Chocolate delivers a rich, velvety drink reminiscent of authentic Italian cafes. Made with high-quality dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and a delicate combination of milk and cornstarch, this hot chocolate boasts a creamy, thick texture perfect for warming up on chilly days. It’s quick to prepare and indulgently satisfying for two servings.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 3.5 ounces dark chocolate (good quality, chopped into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Milk Mixture
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon milk (2% or whole milk, divided)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare Cornstarch Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch until fully dissolved and smooth. Set this aside for later use.
- Combine Cocoa and Sugar: Sift 2 1/2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder into a medium bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and whisk them together thoroughly to break up any lumps. Set this mixture aside.
- Heat Milk: In a small to medium-sized pot, heat 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon of milk over medium heat until it just starts to boil. Be careful to avoid scorching.
- Add Cornstarch Mixture: Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the reserved milk and cornstarch mixture slowly to the hot milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Incorporate Cocoa Mixture: Gradually add the cocoa and sugar mixture to the pot, continuing to whisk thoroughly and continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and homogenous.
- Melt Chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the pot. Whisk constantly over low heat for about 3 minutes, until the chocolate is fully melted and the hot chocolate thickens to a luxuriously creamy texture.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the thick Italian hot chocolate into cups and serve hot. Enjoy the rich and velvety experience!
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and a smooth texture.
- Adjust the sugar amount to your taste preference or substitute with a sweetener of choice.
- Whisk continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a silky finish.
- If the hot chocolate becomes too thick, you can thin it with a splash of warm milk before serving.
- This recipe serves two, so double ingredients to serve more people.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian