This creamy, dreamy Hot Chocolate is so good that once you try this recipe and see how easy it is to make, you'll never go back to buying mixes or packets!
1/4cupDutch-process cocoa powder(special Dark Hershey's) (Note 1)
1/2cupwhite granulated sugar
Pinch of sea salt
3cupswhole milk
1cupheavy whipping cream (or 1 more cup of milk)
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
whipped cream
miniature or dehydrated marshmallows
chocolate shavings(using a vegetable peeler, peel a chocolate bar!)
Variation Ideas
Instead of vanilla extract, try orange extract for an orange hot chocolate or peppermint extract for a minty hot chocolate
1/4teaspoonground cinnamon
Instructions
In a saucepan or pot, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
Stir in the milk and cream and whisk until smooth. Bring the hot chocolate to your desired serving temperature.
Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour into cups or mugs and garnish as desired with whatever add-ins you'd like!
Notes
Cocoa powder: I don't recommend using plain cocoa powder (way less flavor!). Hershey’s® “Special Dark” cocoa powder is a Dutch-process cocoa powder that is readily found at most grocery stores. This is my favorite cocoa powder.Nutrition information does not include whipped cream or toppings.