Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. If desired, blend the mixture in a blender until frothy.
5. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes 2 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 470
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 97mg
Sodium: 255mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 40g
Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be substituted with any milk of your choice.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or milk.
- Semisweet chocolate chips can be substituted with dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Cinnamon and cayenne pepper can be adjusted to taste.
Variations:
- Add a shot of espresso for a mocha twist.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate chips for a sweeter hot chocolate.
- Add a splash of Bailey's Irish Cream or Kahlua for an adult version.
- Top with marshmallows instead of whipped cream for a classic hot chocolate.
Tips and tricks:
- Whisk the hot chocolate constantly while heating to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.
- Use a blender to make the hot chocolate extra frothy.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to your liking.
- Top with additional garnishes such as crushed candy canes or caramel sauce.
Storage instructions:
Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the hot chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, whisking constantly, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the hot chocolate in festive mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Garnishes:
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings
Pairings:
- Biscotti or cookies
- Fresh fruit
- Cheese board
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Croissant
- Baguette
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the hot chocolate is too thick, add more milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the hot chocolate is too thin, add more chocolate chips or cocoa powder to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to heat the hot chocolate to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Hot chocolate has been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to the Mayans and Aztecs who drank a bitter chocolate beverage for medicinal purposes.
Flavor profiles:
Rich, chocolatey, slightly spicy
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a cozy winter treat.
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Region: Italian