Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Hot Cocoa with Vanilla Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 143 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This classic Hot Cocoa recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and comforting drink perfect for chilly days. Made with unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, whole milk, and a hint of vanilla, this homemade hot chocolate brings warmth and indulgence in every cup. It simmers gently on the stove to bring out deep chocolate flavor, making it a holiday favorite or an anytime treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • dash of salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup boiling water
  • 4 cups whole milk, divided
  • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine Cocoa and Sugar: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, mix together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a dash of salt.
  2. Add Boiling Water: Pour in the boiling water and stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil slowly. Keep stirring continuously to prevent burning.
  3. Simmer the Base: Once the mixture reaches a slow boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue stirring for 2 minutes to deepen the cocoa flavor and dissolve all sugar completely.
  4. Add Milk: Stir in 3 ½ cups of the whole milk and heat the mixture until it’s very hot but not boiling, ensuring to heat evenly and avoid scorching the milk.
  5. Finish with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract to add aromatic warmth to the cocoa.
  6. Serve: Pour the hot cocoa equally into 4 mugs. Add the remaining ½ cup milk as a splash to cool the drink slightly to your preferred drinking temperature if desired. Optionally top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  7. Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Rewarm slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain smooth texture.

Notes

  • Slow Cooker Alternative: Place cocoa powder, sugar, a dash of salt, and boiling water in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Then add milk and cook for another 30 minutes until hot. Serve topped with half and half if desired.
  • Use whole milk for the creamiest texture; substitute with milk alternatives for dairy-free option, though flavor and texture will vary.
  • Adjust sugar quantity as per taste for a sweeter or less sweet cocoa.
  • Whipped cream topping adds an extra layer of richness for a delightful treat.
  • Stir continuously while cooking to avoid burning the cocoa mixture on the pan bottom.

Find it online: https://oliviadinner.com/creamy-hot-cocoa-with-vanilla-recipe/