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Creamy Italian Hot Chocolate

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A luscious, velvety Italian hot chocolate that is thicker and creamier than regular hot chocolate, perfect for cozy winter nights. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a unique cornstarch technique to create a rich, pudding-like texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25 g)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (40 g)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8 g)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
  • 1 oz dark chocolate, chopped (optional, 28 g)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well to prevent clumps.
  2. Pour the milk into a medium saucepan. Add about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the milk to the dry mixture and whisk vigorously until smooth and thick with no lumps.
  3. Add the cocoa slurry back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Stir gently to combine. Turn heat to medium-low.
  4. Slowly add the heavy cream to the saucepan, stirring continuously to distribute evenly.
  5. Heat the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid boiling.
  6. If using, add chopped dark chocolate and stir until melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  8. Pour into warm mugs and serve immediately. Optional: top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Notes

Use room temperature milk to reduce lumps. Stir constantly and heat gently to avoid scorching or lumps. If lumps form, remove from heat and whisk vigorously. Avoid boiling to maintain thickness. For dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk and coconut cream. Optional additions include cinnamon, chili powder, espresso, or Baileys for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, winter drink, cozy drink, hot cocoa, cornstarch hot chocolate, rich hot chocolate

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/creamy-italian-hot-chocolate-recipe-easy-perfect-cozy-drink-for-winter/