Decadently Thick Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
This Decadently Thick Italian Hot Chocolate is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Rich, creamy, and luxuriously thick, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a café-style indulgence at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or 1%)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Step 2: Whisk in the cornstarch until fully dissolved and smooth. Use double the cornstarch if you prefer an even thicker texture.
- Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, then add the sugar. Use 4 tablespoons if you want a sweeter drink.
- Step 4: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. The hot chocolate will begin to thicken as it heats.
- Step 5: Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the chocolate chips. Continue stirring until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
- Step 6: Serve the hot chocolate immediately while warm and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, replace some of the milk with cream or use whole milk.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract for extra warmth and aroma.
- If you want a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore the silky texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just warm it up slowly before serving to keep it smooth and creamy.
How can I make the hot chocolate thicker?
Add more cornstarch—double the amount used in the recipe will give you a very thick, pudding-like consistency.
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Decadently Thick Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Decadently Thick Italian Hot Chocolate recipe offers a rich, velvety, and perfectly thick cocoa beverage that is a comforting treat, perfect for chilly days. Made with simple ingredients like butter, cornstarch, milk, sugar, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, it delivers an indulgent dessert-like hot chocolate experience that can be adjusted for sweetness and thickness to suit your preference.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (use 4 teaspoons for an extra thick texture)
- 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or 1%)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Melt butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely to provide a smooth fat base for the hot chocolate.
- Whisk in cornstarch: Gradually whisk in the cornstarch until it is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. For a thicker hot chocolate, double the cornstarch amount to 4 teaspoons.
- Add milk and sugar, then bring to a boil: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to combine evenly, then add the sugar. Use 4 tablespoons if you prefer a sweeter drink. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring constantly; this will start to thicken the mixture.
- Melt in chocolate chips: Once the base has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Continue stirring until all the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Serve hot: Pour into mugs and enjoy immediately. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated gently before serving.
Notes
- For an even thicker hot chocolate, double the cornstarch amount as suggested.
- Adjust sugar quantity according to your preferred sweetness level.
- Use whole milk for richer flavor and creaminess; 2% or 1% milk can be used for a lighter version.
- Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring well before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with preferred plant-based alternatives, but note the texture may vary.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian hot chocolate, thick hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, winter drink, hot cocoa, semi-sweet chocolate drink
