Indulge your senses with a cup of rich, velvety Thick Italian Hot Chocolate that promises to transport you straight to the charming cafes of Italy! This decadent treat is not just a drink; it's an experience that combines the luxurious flavors of dark chocolate with creamy milk and a hint of vanilla, creating a comforting embrace on chilly days. With just a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of your time, you can whip up this delightful concoction that serves four. Are you ready to awaken your inner barista and impress your friends and family with this irresistible recipe? Read on to discover how to create this luscious hot chocolate masterpiece!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and gently heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it is warm but not boiling.
- Once the milk and cream mixture is warm, add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the sugar to the saucepan, stirring well to ensure it dissolves completely into the chocolate mixture. Continue to heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Next, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, keeping the heat on medium-low.
- Once the hot chocolate is thick and creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat. If you prefer an even thicker consistency, you can simmer it for an additional minute or two, stirring constantly.
- Pour the thick Italian hot chocolate into mugs. You can top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, indulgent Italian hot chocolate!
Tips
- Choose Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This will enhance the richness of your hot chocolate.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with half the amount and add more as needed.
- Mixing Method: To ensure a smooth consistency, make sure to stir continuously when adding the chocolate. This prevents any lumps from forming.
- Serve with Toppings: Elevate your hot chocolate experience by topping it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a dash of cinnamon or a splash of peppermint extract for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Thicker Consistency: If you like your hot chocolate extra thick, let it simmer for a minute or two longer, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Presentation: Serve your hot chocolate in clear mugs to showcase its rich color, and don’t forget to garnish for that Instagram-worthy shot!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 85mg
