Rich and Thick Hot Chocolate for One Recipe
Introduction
This rich and thick hot chocolate recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. Made with a blend of high-quality chocolate, cocoa powder, and a touch of espresso, it delivers a deeply satisfying chocolate experience. Ideal for one, it’s easy to prepare and wonderfully indulgent.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon (7g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2/3 cup milk (any percentage)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (high-quality chips are fine)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small pot, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, salt, and water. Whisk over medium-high heat until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Step 2: Whisk in the milk and heavy cream, then continue heating until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the chopped chocolate until it melts completely and the hot chocolate is smooth and thick.
- Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into a cup. Top with whipped cream if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a chocolate drizzle, melt 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped chocolate with 1 1/2 teaspoons cream or milk in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds, stir until smooth, then drizzle over your hot chocolate.
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for the richest texture, or substitute with a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
- Adjust the espresso powder to taste or omit it for a milder chocolate flavor.
Storage
Hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh, but leftover can be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore smoothness. Avoid boiling when reheating to prevent separation.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor, but this may result in a less intense chocolate taste.
What does the espresso powder do in this recipe?
The espresso powder enhances and deepens the chocolate flavor without adding noticeable coffee taste, making the hot chocolate richer and more complex.
PrintRich and Thick Hot Chocolate for One Recipe
This rich and thick hot chocolate recipe for one is a decadent and cozy treat made with a blend of cocoa, espresso powder, milk, cream, and high-quality semisweet chocolate. It’s perfectly smooth, velvety, and topped with optional whipped cream for an indulgent single serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon (7g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2/3 cup milk (any percentage)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (about 1/3 cup chips)
Optional Topping
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients and water: In a small pot over medium-high heat, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, espresso powder, salt, and water until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add milk and cream: Pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Heat the mixture until it is steaming but not boiling, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Incorporate chocolate: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the chopped semisweet chocolate until it melts completely, leaving the hot chocolate thick, smooth, and glossy.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into a cup. Optionally, top with whipped cream for an extra creamy finish and enjoy immediately.
- Optional chocolate drizzle: For a decorative chocolate drizzle, combine 1 1/2 teaspoons of cream or milk with 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons of chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir until smooth, then drizzle over the hot chocolate using a spoon or pipe using a plastic bag with a snipped corner.
Notes
- 2 ounces of chocolate chips is approximately 1/3 cup.
- The chocolate drizzle adds an elegant touch but is optional.
- Use any milk percentage for the desired richness; whole milk will be creamier.
- Be careful not to boil the milk mixture to avoid scalding.
- Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor subtly without adding coffee taste.
Keywords: hot chocolate, rich hot chocolate, single serving hot cocoa, creamy hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate
