Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction

Italian Hot Chocolate is a rich, indulgent treat that’s thicker and more velvety than your average hot cocoa. Made with real dark chocolate and a touch of cornstarch for extra creaminess, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup (4oz/115 grams) dark bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
• 1 ½ cups (350ml) whole milk
• 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the chopped chocolate and 1 cup of milk in a small saucepan.
2. Step 2: Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate has melted completely.
3. Step 3: Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ½ cup of milk and the cornstarch until smooth, with no lumps.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cornstarch mixture, making sure to stir the milk mixture before adding as the cornstarch may settle.
6. Step 6: Return the saucepan to low to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles form around the edges, but do not let it boil.
7. Step 7: Taste and add more sugar if desired, or serve with sugar on the side for individual preference.
8. Step 8: Pour into small cups or espresso cups and serve with a spoon for scooping the thick, luscious chocolate.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, but note that texture may vary slightly.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract for extra warmth and depth.
• If your mixture isn’t thick enough, gently cook a bit longer, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring continuously to restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can cause separation.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

While you can use milk chocolate, the drink will be sweeter and less intense. Dark bittersweet chocolate is recommended for authentic richness and depth of flavor.

What if my hot chocolate is too thick?

If the hot chocolate becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more milk while reheating until you reach your preferred consistency.

Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.6 from 96 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Experience the rich and indulgent delight of Italian Hot Chocolate, a thick, velvety drink made with dark bittersweet chocolate and whole milk, sweetened lightly and thickened with cornstarch. Perfect for cozy evenings or as a luxurious treat, this comforting beverage offers a decadent twist on traditional hot chocolate with its intense chocolate flavor and smooth texture.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Mixture

• ¾ cup (4oz/115 grams) dark bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup (235ml) whole milk

Sweetener and Thickener

• 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ½ cup (115ml) whole milk

---

Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate: Into a small saucepan, place the coarsely chopped dark bittersweet chocolate and 1 cup of whole milk. Place over low heat and stir occasionally until the chocolate melts completely and blends smoothly with the milk.
2. Add Sugar: Stir in the granulated white sugar until it dissolves thoroughly into the chocolate mixture, enhancing the sweetness.
3. Prepare Cornstarch Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup of whole milk with the cornstarch. Whisk briskly to dissolve all lumps and ensure a smooth mixture.
4. Incorporate Thickener: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir the cornstarch and milk mixture well just before adding it to the chocolate milk to prevent settling, then pour it into the saucepan and mix thoroughly.
5. Thicken the Hot Chocolate: Return the saucepan to low to medium heat. Stir continuously as the mixture warms and thickens. Bubbles will appear around the edges, and it will come close to simmering but do not let it boil. The drink will thicken sufficiently through this gentle heating.
6. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the hot chocolate and add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Alternatively, serve additional sugar on the side for guests to sweeten to their liking.
7. Serve: Pour the thickened Italian hot chocolate into small cups or espresso cups. Serve with a spoon on the side for scooping the rich, velvety drink.

Notes

• Note 1: Use high-quality dark bittersweet chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa content for the best rich flavor.
• Note 2: Whole milk is recommended for a creamy texture, but you can substitute with plant-based milk for a non-dairy option.
• Note 3: Adjust sugar according to your taste preference or substitute with alternative sweeteners.
• Note 4: Cornstarch is essential for achieving the thick, pudding-like consistency characteristic of Italian hot chocolate; ensure it is fully dissolved to avoid lumps.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Italian hot chocolate, thick hot chocolate, dark chocolate drink, rich chocolate beverage, cozy drink