Real Hot Chocolate Recipe (No Powder!)
Skip the packets and cocoa powder! This real hot chocolate uses melted chocolate for the creamiest, most luxurious hot chocolate you’ve ever made. Ready in 2 minutes with your choice of three easy methods: microwave, stovetop, or automatic milk frother. Single serve recipe.
Servings: 1 10 oz
Calories: 280kcal
Equipment
- Option 1: Microwave Method, Microwave safe mug, Whisk or handheld frother
- Option 2: Stovetop Method, Small saucepan, Whisk or handheld frother, Mug
- Option 3: Automatic Milk Frother Method (My Favorite) Automatic milk frother with temperature and froth settings, Mug
Ingredients
- 10 oz whole milk or milk of choice add more or less as needed
- 1 to 2 oz good quality chocolate chopped dark semisweet or milk, your preference
- 1/8 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of flaky sea salt or regular salt
- 1 scoop unflavored collagen powder optional about 10g, for protein boost
- 5-10 g maple syrup (optional, if using a darker chocolate)) 1-2 teaspoons
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Method 1: Microwave
- Combine milk, chopped chocolate, vanilla extract, salt, and collagen powder if using in a microwave safe mug.
- Microwave for 1 minute. Stir well.
- Continue microwaving in 30 second intervals, whisking after each, until chocolate is fully melted and mixture reaches your desired temperature.
- Whisk vigorously or use a handheld frother for 15 to 20 seconds to create foam and fully incorporate the chocolate.
- Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately.
Method 2: Stovetop
- Combine milk, chopped chocolate, vanilla extract, salt, and collagen powder if using in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium low heat, whisking constantly or using a handheld frother periodically until chocolate is fully melted and mixture is hot and silky.
- Do not let it boil. Remove from heat once steaming and smooth.
- Pour into your favorite mug. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately.
Method 3: Automatic Milk Frother (My Favorite)
- Place chocolate chopped up in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 20 seconds, stir, microwave for 20 seconds, stir. Continue until chocolate is melted, maybe one more additional time.
- Combine milk, vanilla extract, salt, and collagen powder if using in the milk frother.
- Select your desired temperature setting. I use the highest setting.
- Select your desired froth level. Medium or high creates silky foam on top.
- Press start and let the frother work its magic.
- Slowly drizzle in your melted chocolate once the milk begins to warm.
- Pour into your favorite mug. The foam will be on top already. Add whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Chocolate Quality Matters
Use chocolate you would actually want to eat on its own. The chocolate IS the flavor here, so quality makes a massive difference. Good options include dark chocolate 60 to 75 percent, semisweet chocolate, milk chocolate, or high quality chocolate bars. In a pinch chocolate chips will work.
Temperature Control
Do not let the milk boil or the chocolate will seize and become grainy. Heat until steaming hot but not boiling. For stovetop method, remove from heat as soon as you see steam and the mixture is smooth.
Sweetness Adjustments
If using darker chocolate 70 percent or higher, you may want to add sweetness. I recommend adding 1 to 2 teaspoons of pure maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a smoother, more natural sweetness. If using milk chocolate, you probably will not need any additional sweetener at all.
Collagen Powder
Use unflavored collagen powder that dissolves completely in hot liquid. I use a multi source collagen powder. It adds protein for post workout recovery and is perfect for both adults and kids. You cannot taste it at all. Great after shoveling snow, playing outside, or any winter activity.
Milk Options
Whole milk creates the creamiest result. You can substitute with 2 percent milk, skim milk, oat milk, or almond milk. Note that lower fat milks will produce a thinner consistency. For best frothing with non dairy milk, use barista blend.
Reheating
This drink is best consumed immediately while fresh and frothy. If you must reheat, do so gently on the stovetop or in 15 second microwave bursts, stirring between each. The texture will not be quite as silky when reheated.
Scaling
This recipe easily scales up. Simply multiply all ingredients by the number of servings you need.
NUTRITION (per serving with collagen):
Calories: 280(+/-)
Protein: 15g Note: Nutrition will vary based on chocolate type and milk used
Protein: 15g Note: Nutrition will vary based on chocolate type and milk used
