How to Make the Ultimate Hot Chocolate

If you're used to bland hot chocolate from a packet, it's time to upgrade. Real hot chocolate, made from scratch, is rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent treat that's perfect for chilly days. Forget hot cocoa — this homemade hot chocolate will warm you right up. Read on to discover how to make the ultimate version from the ground up.

Hot Chocolate vs. Hot Cocoa: What's the Difference?

Though people often use the terms interchangeably, there's a key distinction between hot chocolate and hot cocoa. Hot chocolate is made with real chocolate, sometimes with a touch of cocoa powder, while hot cocoa comes from cocoa powder alone. This is why hot chocolate is typically thicker and richer than its cocoa counterpart.

Top Ingredients for the Best Hot Chocolate

For the richest, most indulgent hot chocolate, choose high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao. When it comes to dairy, opt for thicker, creamier options like heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk is a fantastic choice, and you can even blend it with other plant-based milks to tone down the coconut flavor.

How to Prepare Hot Chocolate

Get a taste of homemade hot chocolate with this recipe for Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa, created by Aurora. This recipe makes a single serving, perfect for a cozy treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
• 2 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and continue to cook until fully dissolved.
3. Add the dark chocolate and mix until completely melted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat, then mix in the cream and cinnamon.
5. Finish by topping with whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed peppermint, or any other topping you love.

We're highlighting the most exciting home-cooking trends from the passionate cooks in our community. After analyzing data from 1.2 billion annual visits to Dinogo.com and 2.5 billion page views, we went deeper, surveying Dinogo cooks about what's in their kitchens, on their stovetops, and at their tables. Hot Chocolate is one of the hottest topics they're curious about. Check out more from the "State of Home Cooking" special report.