Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ben Carraoli

Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

I just wrapped my hands around a warm mug of this dreamy homemade hot chocolate, and let me tell you—it’s a cozy hug in a cup. After making this recipe, I felt like I unlocked a little secret to turning a simple drink into something luxurious and deeply comforting. It’s not just about chocolate and milk—it’s about how they melt and mingle, how sweetness, richness, and warmth come together.

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Prep Time 1

Cook Time 5

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

4 cups milk preferably whole or 2% – Using milk instead of water gives you a richer, creamier texture.
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds that classic “hot cocoa” flavor and depth.
¼ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the drink and balances the bitterness of cocoa.
½ cup bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar – These melt into the milk and add a deep, velvety richness.
¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla rounds out the chocolate and adds a touch of warmth.

Method

Pour the milk into a saucepan and set it over medium to medium-low heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until the mixture is warm (not boiling) and the cocoa is fully dissolved.
Once the milk mixture is hot, reduce the heat slightly and add the chocolate chips. Whisk constantly until they’re completely melted and the mixture looks silky and smooth.
Add the vanilla extract at the end for that perfect finishing touch. Give it one last whisk, then pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs and top it however you like.

Notes

I always use whole milk if I have it—it gives a creamy, velvety texture that feels luxurious.
Keep whisking while adding the chocolate chips to prevent any separation or graininess.
If it’s too sweet for your taste, use darker chocolate or reduce the sugar slightly next time.
I pre-warm my mugs by filling them with hot water for a minute—this keeps the drink hotter for longer.
For a café-style finish, whisk the hot chocolate vigorously at the end to create a light froth before pouring.