CLASSIC HOT CHOCOLATE

Classic Hot Chocolate image

This is a dark, rich and classic hot cocoa that's perfect for any snowy afternoon. Nondairy milk can be substituted for whole milk here, though you might have to reduce the sugar, since some brands are sweetened. Also bear in mind that the higher the cocoa percentage of the chocolate you use, the less sweet the drink will be. Add the sugar gradually, tasting as you go: Hot cocoa sweetness is a very personal thing.

Provided by Melissa Clark

Categories easy, quick, non-alcoholic drinks

Time 10m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-processed
3 cups whole milk
4 1/2 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate or 3/4 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
1 to 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Tiny pinch of fine sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream or marshmallows, for serving

Steps:

Fill a small pot with 1/3 cup water and bring to a boil. Whisk in cocoa; it may clump, which is O.K.
Reduce heat to medium and whisk in milk, whisking around the sides of the pan to help dissolve all the cocoa.
When milk simmers, whisk in the chocolate, 1 tablespoon sugar and a tiny pinch of salt, and reduce heat to low. Whisk until chocolate is melted and very smooth. Taste and add more sugar if you like. Turn off heat and whisk in vanilla.
Serve topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 304, UnsaturatedFat 6 grams, Carbohydrate 39 grams, Fat 16 grams, Fiber 4 grams, Protein 8 grams, SaturatedFat 10 grams, Sodium 120 milligrams, Sugar 33 grams