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
Scale
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
