Drinking Chocolate

Drinking chocolate offers a rich, comforting beverage experience. It’s different from hot cocoa, often using higher cocoa percentages for a deeper flavor. If you’re looking for a drink with a pure chocolate taste, look no further!

I’m so excited to share this incredible drinking chocolate recipe with you. Honestly, I’ve always been a hot cocoa fan, but this drinking chocolate is much richer. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma alone filled my kitchen with this luxurious, decadent scent. It was like stepping into a cozy café in the middle of winter, even though it was just a regular Tuesday night.

Let’s face it, sometimes you just need a moment of pure comfort. We all have those days when a simple cup of something warm and comforting can make all the difference. I’ve found that this drinking chocolate is perfect for those evenings when you want to unwind after a long day, or when you’re craving something a little more special than your average hot beverage. And, it’s better to unwind with a cup of drinking chocolate instead of a caffeine-filled drink like a white chocolate mocha.

What I love most about this recipe is how it upgrades a simple drink into something special. It’s not just about the taste, although that’s definitely a huge part of it. It’s about the experience. The rich, velvety texture, the intense chocolate flavor, and the feeling of warmth spread through you with each sip. Trust me, once you try this drinking chocolate, you’ll never look at hot cocoa the same way again. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Items Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make drinking chocolate:

• Full cream milk: Provides a rich, creamy base for the drinking chocolate.
• 70% intense dark chocolate bar: Adds a deep, complex chocolate flavor with a slight bitterness for balance.
• Milk chocolate bar: Contributes sweetness and a smoother, more approachable chocolate taste.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile by balancing sweetness and intensifying the chocolate.

Ways To Customize

Here’s how to level up your drinking chocolate:

Flavor Enhancements:

• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper for warmth and depth.
• Vanilla: Stir in ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a smooth, aromatic touch.
• Coffee: A splash of espresso or strong brewed coffee can enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Orange Zest: A bit of orange zest or a few drops of orange extract adds a citrusy contrast.
• Peppermint: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract for a holiday twist.

Texture & Thickness Tweaks:

• Cornstarch Slurry: Mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold milk before adding to the saucepan for a slightly thicker texture.
• Creamier Version: Swap half the milk with heavy cream or coconut milk for an ultra-rich consistency.

Sweetness Adjustments:

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Use instead of sugar for a natural sweetener with added depth.
• Salted Caramel: Stir in a teaspoon of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.

Boozy Touches (Adults Only):

• Baileys or Kahlúa: Add a splash for a creamy, spiked version.
• Whiskey or Rum: A small amount of your favorite dark liquor gives a warm kick.

Toppings & Extras:

• Toasted Marshmallows: Broil mini marshmallows for a campfire-inspired topping.
• Chocolate Chips or Cocoa Nibs: Sprinkle on top for extra texture.
• Crushed Cookies or Graham Crackers: Add a crunchy finish.

How To Make It

In a small saucepan, add chopped dark and milk chocolates. Then slowly pour milk and sprinkle salt. Heat up the saucepan using the lowest setting (140°F / 60°C) and stir until the chocolates are completely melted, about 10 minutes.

Continue stirring on low heat for another 3 to 5 minutes or until the chocolate-milk mixture turns darker, similar to a deep-colored chocolate bar, and the chocolate mixture has slightly thickened.

Turn off the heat and allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly for a minute, then transfer to a small cup or a demitasse cup.

Serve drinking chocolate as is or top with a dollop of whipped cream and reserved chocolate shavings.

Storage

Store leftover drinking chocolate in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to restore its smooth consistency. Avoid using high heat, as it can cause the chocolate to scorch or separate.

Helpful Hints

• Chop the chocolate finely to help it melt evenly and quickly.
• Use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream for a richer texture.
• Stir constantly to prevent the chocolate from sticking or burning.
• Add sweetener gradually if needed, as different chocolates have varying sweetness levels.
• Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla, or espresso powder.
• Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra treat, top your drinking chocolate with a big swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. A dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon adds a nice touch, while a drizzle of caramel makes it even more decadent. If you love texture, try crushed cookies, toffee bits, or even a pinch of flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty kick.

For an extra chocolatey spread, pair it with my Hot Chocolate Dip—perfect for dunking fruit, cookies, or marshmallows.

This rich and creamy drink pairs perfectly with buttery shortbread, crispy biscotti, or a warm, flaky croissant. If you want something lighter, fresh berries or a slice of citrusy cake help balance the deep chocolate flavor. For a fun twist, serve it with mini marshmallows or a peppermint stick for stirring.

And if you’re craving a festive holiday treat, a piece of Chocolate Peppermint Fudge on the side makes a delicious combo.

Want to make it a little fancy? Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or dark rum for a cozy, grown-up version. You can also serve it in tiny espresso cups as a rich after-dinner treat. However you enjoy it, this drinking chocolate is all about comfort, warmth, and savoring every sip.

FAQs

Can I use any type of chocolate for this recipe?

For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa. Dark, milk, or even a mix of both works well, but avoid chocolate chips, as they contain stabilizers that may affect the smoothness.

How can I make this drinking chocolate thicker?

To make it extra thick and creamy, use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with a splash of milk) while heating. Let it simmer on low heat for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the milk for plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Full-fat coconut milk gives the richest texture, while oat milk adds a naturally sweet flavor.

Recipe

Drinking Chocolate

Here's how to make rich, creamy drinking chocolate with simple ingredients. Customize it with spices, extracts, or toppings for the perfect cozy treat

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings 4

Calories 337 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 cups full cream milk
• 100 grams 70% intense dark chocolate bar
• 100 grams milk chocolate bar reserve some for garnish
• generous pinch of kosher salt

GARNISH (optional)

• whipped cream
• chocolate shavings

Instructions

 

• In a small saucepan, add chopped dark and milk chocolates. Then slowly pour milk and sprinkle salt.
• Heat up the saucepan using the lowest setting (140°F / 60°C) and stir until the chocolates are completely melted, about 10 minutes.
• Continue stirring on low heat for another 3 to 5 minutes or until the chocolate-milk mixture turns darker, similar to a deep-colored chocolate bar and the chocolate mixture has slightly thickened.
• Turn off the heat and allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly for a minute, then transfer to a small cup or a demitasse cup.
• Serve drinking chocolate as is or top with a dollop of whipped cream and reserved chocolate shavings.

Notes

• Use your favorite rich and smooth chocolate bars of the same brand. I used Lindt chocolate bars since two flavors were available, Excellence 70% intense dark and Swiss classic milk chocolate.
• Use a heavy bottom saucepan.
• Use the lowest setting of your stove and continue stirring to prevent the milk from boiling.
• I used a wooden spoon, but you may want to use a whisk, a silicone spatula, or even a molinillo if you have one.
• Lindt Swiss classic milk chocolate is sweet enough to sweeten this Drinking Chocolate recipe. If your favorite chocolate bars aren’t too sweet, add brown sugar a teaspoon at a time (to taste) once all the chopped chocolates are melted.
• This Drinking Chocolate thickens further once colder.
• Serve using a small cup as the mixture is rich and creamy. This Drinking Chocolate makes 4 servings with 4 ounces per serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 337kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 93mgPotassium: 393mgFiber: 3gSugar: 27gVitamin A: 235IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 197mgIron: 3mg

Equipment

• knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cup
• Saucepan

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