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Creamy Orange Chocolate Hot Cocoa

creamy orange chocolate hot cocoa - featured image
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A cozy and indulgent hot cocoa recipe that combines rich chocolate with bright, zesty orange for a comforting and slightly fancy drink perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml) or almond/oat milk for dairy-free
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste, or use honey/maple syrup)
  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (90 g, 60-70% cocoa recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream, orange slices, cinnamon

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups whole milk, ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar over medium heat until cocoa and sugar dissolve, about 4-5 minutes. Heat until hot but not boiling.
  2. Reduce heat to low, stir in ½ cup chopped dark chocolate or chips, whisk gently until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth and glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Optional: Cover saucepan and let cocoa steep off heat for 5 minutes for more intense orange flavor, then whisk again.
  5. Pour hot cocoa into mugs and serve immediately. Top with whipped cream, extra orange zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

Use fresh orange zest for best flavor; avoid white pith to prevent bitterness. Whisk cocoa powder with milk and cream before heating to prevent lumps. Heat gently to avoid scorching milk. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free dark chocolate. Reheat gently on stovetop to maintain texture; avoid microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cocoa, orange chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, cozy drink, winter beverage, chocolate orange, dairy-free hot cocoa option

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/creamy-orange-chocolate-hot-cocoa-recipe-perfect-for-cozy-evenings/