Italian Creamy Hot Chocolate
Ingredients – 2 servings
Whole milk
- 400 ml Milk
- 40 g Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 30 g Granulated Sugar
- 20 g Cornstarch
- 1 pinch Salt
At least 50–60%
- 50 g Dark Chocolate
For the top – optional, whipped
- to taste Whipping Cream
For the top – optional, grated
- to taste Dark Chocolate
For the top – optional
- a little Unsweetened cocoa powder
Preparation
Mix the dry ingredients. In a small saucepan, mix the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Make sure there are no lumps of starch or cocoa.
Add the milk. Gradually pour the cold milk into the dry mixture while continuously whisking with a hand whisk. Work until smooth to achieve a completely lump-free base.
Start heating. Place the saucepan over medium heat and begin to heat the mixture while stirring continuously. As it heats, it will gradually thicken due to the cornstarch.
Add the chocolate. When the mixture has started to thicken, add the chopped dark chocolate.
Cook until silky. Continue to cook while stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and you achieve a shiny, thick, creamy consistency.
Serve hot. Remove from heat and pour into two cups while still hot. Top with whipped cream, grated chocolate, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder to taste.
Start with cold milk: This way, you can mix the cocoa and cornstarch more easily without lumps.
Stir continuously: This prevents the starch from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Use high-quality dark chocolate: Chocolate with 50–60% cocoa gives the drink a rich flavor.
Adjust the thickness: You can thicken it by cooking on low heat longer or thin it out with a little milk. Serve fresh and hot.
