Description

This rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe combines whole milk, heavy cream, dark brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and bittersweet chocolate to create a decadent drink perfect for chilly evenings. Enhanced with a hint of vanilla and optionally served with whiskey or bourbon, it’s topped with a smooth homemade whipped cream for an indulgent finish.

Ingredients

Main Hot Chocolate

1 quart whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup (packed) dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon natural unsweetened cocoa powder
Pinch salt
8 oz bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional for Serving

Whiskey or bourbon, 2 tablespoons per serving (rum or tequila may be substituted)

Whipped Cream Topping

½ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, vigorously whisk together the whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, dark brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt over high heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
Melt the Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the chopped bittersweet chocolate and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the chocolate melts completely, creating a smooth and velvety hot chocolate base.
Serve Hot Chocolate: Ladle the hot chocolate evenly into mugs. Optionally add 2 tablespoons of whiskey or bourbon (or a preferred substitute like rum or tequila) into each mug for an adult twist.
Prepare Whipped Cream: In a cold medium bowl, use a whisk to beat the ½ cup heavy cream until it thickens slightly. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until soft peaks form and the cream holds its shape.
Top and Enjoy: Spoon a generous dollop of the freshly whipped cream onto each mug of hot chocolate. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy, and slightly boozy treat.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond or oat milk and coconut cream respectively.
The whiskey or bourbon is optional; omit for a child-friendly or non-alcoholic option.
Using good quality bittersweet chocolate ensures a richer and more flavorful hot chocolate.
Whipping the cream in a cold bowl helps it thicken better and faster.
Adjust sugar amounts depending on desired sweetness.