Ingredients
Milk Mixture
- 4 cups whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Chocolate and Thickener
- 3.5 oz. dark chocolate (60% cocoa), chopped into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Reserve Milk: Pour out ½ cup of the milk and set it aside for later use in making a cornstarch slurry.
- Heat the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 3 ½ cups of milk, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a gentle simmer.
- Add Chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the simmering milk mixture and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
- Make Cornstarch Slurry: In the reserved ½ cup of milk, whisk in the cornstarch until completely dissolved, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Thicken Hot Chocolate: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering chocolate mixture while whisking constantly. Continue to cook and stir for 1-2 minutes until the hot chocolate thickens to a rich, creamy consistency.
- Final Touch: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Serve the hot chocolate immediately for the best experience.
Notes
- This drink is perfect as is, but feel free to top with chocolate shavings, mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra indulgence.
- Keep the heat low when simmering the milk mixture to avoid scalding the milk.
- Taste the hot chocolate after thickening and adjust the sweetness to your liking if needed.
- For a traditional Italian experience, consider serving in smaller portions like espresso cups.
- Cornstarch slurry is key for smooth thickening; adding cornstarch directly to hot liquid causes lumps.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
