Easy Dark Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction

This easy dark hot chocolate is a quick and satisfying treat perfect for cozying up on chilly days. Made with rich dark chocolate and a touch of vanilla, it delivers deep flavor with minimal effort.

A clear glass mug filled with creamy brown hot chocolate, topped with a layer of white marshmallows that have light toasted brown spots and sprinkled with small dark chocolate shavings, sits on a round white marble surface. Several white marshmallows are scattered around the base of the mug, and blurred small green pine trees in the background add a cozy, winter feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk of choice (I used 2%)
  • 1 ½ oz dark chocolate
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Add milk, dark chocolate, and brown sugar to a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is melted, the hot chocolate is steaming, and everything is well-combined.
  2. Step 2: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour into a mug and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, and/or chocolate shavings if desired. Drink up!

Tips & Variations

  • For a creamier texture, substitute half the milk with heavy cream or use whole milk.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a spicy twist.
  • Use your favorite dark chocolate bar, but aim for 60–70% cocoa for balanced richness.

Storage

Hot chocolate tastes best freshly made but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.

How to Serve

A clear glass mug filled to the top with rich, dark brown hot chocolate forms the base layer. On top, there is a layer of small white marshmallows, some toasted to a light golden brown, creating a soft, fluffy texture. Sprinkled over the marshmallows are thin dark chocolate shavings that add a slight rough texture and a rich contrast to the smooth drink. The mug is set on a round white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Around the plate, there are some scattered marshmallows and two blurred green pine-like plants in the background, adding a cozy and festive feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of a chocolate bar?

Yes, high-quality dark chocolate chips will work well and melt quickly, making the process even easier.

Is it necessary to add sugar?

The brown sugar balances the bitterness of dark chocolate, but you can adjust or omit it depending on your taste and the sweetness of your chocolate.

Print

Easy Dark Hot Chocolate Recipe

This Easy Dark Hot Chocolate recipe is a quick and comforting beverage perfect for chilly days. Made with rich dark chocolate, milk, and a hint of vanilla, it creates a smooth and indulgent drink that can be dressed up with marshmallows or whipped cream for an extra treat.

  • Author: lina
  • Prep Time: 1 minute
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk of choice (I used 2%)
  • 1 ½ oz dark chocolate
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Heat Ingredients: Add milk, dark chocolate, and brown sugar to a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted, the mixture is steaming, and all ingredients are fully combined into a smooth hot chocolate.
  2. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to enhance the flavor.
  3. Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug. Optionally, top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for added richness and decoration. Enjoy immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use any milk variety you prefer, such as whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk, for different flavors and dietary needs.
  • Adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste for a sweeter or less sweet hot chocolate.
  • For an extra velvety texture, heat the milk gently without boiling to avoid scalding.
  • Adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder can introduce a spicy twist to this classic drink.
  • This recipe serves one but can be easily scaled up for more servings.

Keywords: dark hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate, dark chocolate drink, cozy beverage, quick hot chocolate

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