How to Make Homemade Hot Chocolate on the Stove
It's incredibly easy to make this delicious treat from scratch on your stovetop with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Servings 2 people
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk: For the creamiest result use organic, grass-fed whole milk, but feel free to substitute with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- 1/4 cup cocoa: Use a good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolaty flavor. We like the cocoa powder from Trader Joes the best.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey: This natural sweetener adds warmth and richness but you can adjust the amount to your taste. You could also use white sugar, just make sure it completely disovles.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional: This adds a subtle, sweet aroma and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- A dash of salt optional: A pinch of salt enhances the chocolate’s flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Whipped cream or marshmallows optional: Because a little topping takes your hot chocolate from great to exceptional.
Instructions
- Heat the Milk - Pour 2 cups of milk into a medium saucepan. Warm the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scalding. You’re looking for it to be hot but not boiling.
- Add Cocoa and Sweetener - Once the milk is warm, whisk in the 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and 1/4 cup of maple syrup (or honey). For best results keep whisking until the cocoa is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Salt - Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt if you’re using them. These tiny additions make a big difference in flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy - Pour your homemade hot cocoa into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if you’re feeling indulgent. For an extra decadent treat, sprinkle a little cocoa powder or add a few chocolate shavings on top.