There’s something undeniably cozy about hot chocolate, especially when topped with a dollop of fluffy homemade whipped cream. This delicious treat is perfect for chilly days, movie nights, or just when you need a little comfort in a cup. Today, I’m sharing my favorite way to make rich, creamy hot chocolate with a heavenly whipped cream topping. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to store bought cocoa again!
Method
Making the Hot Cocoa
To make the perfect hot cocoa, start by setting your stovetop to medium heat. In a medium saucepan, combine the cacao powder and water, stirring them together until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. You’ll notice the cacao dissolving nicely, creating a thick, dark liquid. Once you have a smooth base, slowly pour in the milk. Stir gently but consistently as the milk heats up to ensure that the cacao mixture and milk are fully blended. The key here is patience, do not let the mixture come to a boil, as boiling can cause the milk to scald and develop an unpleasant flavor. Instead, keep it just below a simmer.
When the cocoa is nicely warmed, reduce the heat to low and add the chocolate chips. Stir continuously as the chocolate chips melt, blending their rich, velvety texture into the hot cocoa. This step is essential for achieving that creamy consistency. Once the chocolate has melted completely, add in the sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved. Pour the luxurious hot cocoa into your favorite mug and set it aside while you prepare the whipped cream.
Preparing the Whipped Cream
To make the whipped cream, begin by adding the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar to your stand mixer bowl. Using the whisk attachment, start whipping the mixture on medium-high speed. You’ll see the cream begin to thicken and take on a lighter texture. Keep a close eye on it whipping cream can quickly go from soft and fluffy to dense and buttery if overmixed. The ideal texture is light, airy, and holds its shape when scooped. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once you achieve soft peaks, stop whisking. Spoon the freshly made whipped cream generously over your hot cocoa, allowing it to melt just a bit into the warm drink.
Necessary Tools
- Medium saucepan
- Stand mixer with whisk attachment (or handheld whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Heat-resistant mug
Hot Chocolate Whipped Cream Recipe
Cuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
Hot Cocoa
1 tbsp. cacao powder
1/4 cup water
2 cups milk (your choice of dairy or non-dairy)
1/3 cup chocolate chips (I love using Hu Kitchen chocolate gems!)
2 tbsp. sugar (coconut sugar works great!)
Whipped Cream
1 cup heavy whipping cream (organic from Target is my go-to!)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 tbsp. powdered sugar
Directions
- Making the Hot Cocoa: Turn your stovetop to medium heat and combine the cacao powder and water in a saucepan. Stir until smooth. Pour in the milk, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to warm the mixture without letting it boil. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the chocolate chips. Stir until they melt completely. Finally, stir in the sugar until fully dissolved. Pour your rich, creamy cocoa into your favorite mug.
- reparing the Whipped Cream: Pour the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar into your stand mixer. Whisk on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes, or until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overmix; we want it fluffy, not buttery. Spoon the whipped cream on top of your hot cocoa.
Notes
- Be careful not to let the hot chocolate boil. Overheating can cause the milk to scald, leaving an unpleasant taste.
- When whipping cream, always keep an eye on it. Overmixing can turn your cream into butter!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this indulgent drink with a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top or some chocolate shavings for an extra touch of decadence. Pair it with some marshmallows or a piece of dark chocolate for the ultimate treat!
Fun Fact
Did you know that hot chocolate dates back to the ancient Mayans, who mixed cocoa with water, chili, and spices? It wasn’t sweet, but it sure was bold!
Conclusion
This homemade hot chocolate with whipped cream is the perfect way to treat yourself or share a cozy moment with someone special. Whether you’re snuggling up by the fireplace or just craving a sweet pick me up, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and your hands. Enjoy!
