Description
This authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate recipe delivers a rich, warming beverage with deep chocolate flavor enhanced by cinnamon and a hint of chili spice. Perfect for cozy evenings, this creamy drink can be topped with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk you prefer)
- 1 cup water
- 3 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne or chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of fine sea salt
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon stick
- Shaved chocolate
Instructions
- Warm the base: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and water. Warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, ensuring the liquid is hot enough to melt chocolate without scorching.
- Add the chocolate: Whisk in the finely chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cayenne or chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking constantly for 2–3 minutes until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavors and add a sweet aromatic touch.
- Blend for froth (optional): For a classic Mexican-style froth, carefully blend the hot chocolate using an immersion blender or a traditional vented blender for 15–20 seconds until lightly foamy, creating a rich, frothy texture.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Optionally, top with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, or shaved chocolate for extra indulgence. Serve immediately and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar and chili powder based on your preference for sweetness and spice.
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, or a milk alternative if preferred.
- The frothing step is optional but recommended for an authentic texture.
- Be careful not to boil the milk to prevent scalding and maintain smoothness.
- Store any leftover hot chocolate in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
