Name: Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate: A Rich, Creamy Delight Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice); 3 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa for richness); 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt (to enhance the chocolate flavor)

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Introduction

Italian Hot Chocolate is a luxurious, thick, and creamy drink perfect for warming up on chilly days. Made with real dark chocolate and gently thickened with cornstarch, it feels like a dessert in a cup. This rich beverage offers an intensely chocolatey experience that’s truly irresistible.

A white cup with brown speckles sits on a round white saucer, filled almost to the top with thick, smooth hot chocolate. Dark brown chocolate chunks float on the surface in the middle, adding texture. A silver spoon sticks out from the cup, resting inside the drink. In the blurry background, there are pieces of toast with a light spread on them placed on a wooden board. The setting is on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
3 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa for richness)
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt (to enhance the chocolate flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and sugar together and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Warm the milk until it is hot but not boiling.
Step 3: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the hot milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Pour the cornstarch and sugar mixture into the saucepan. Whisk well to dissolve it fully and thicken the liquid. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the hot chocolate reaches a thick, creamy consistency, similar to a liquid dessert.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Step 6: Pour into mugs and serve immediately. Optionally, top with whipped cream, marshmallows, cocoa powder, or cinnamon for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the richest flavor.
Whisk constantly when adding the cornstarch mixture to avoid lumps.
Adjust thickness by adding more cornstarch for a creamier drink or more milk for a thinner consistency.
Try topping with whipped cream or marshmallows to make it even more decadent.

Storage

Store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to maintain smoothness. It may thicken slightly upon cooling; you can thin it with a splash of milk when reheating.

How to Serve

A white rustic ceramic cup filled with smooth dark brown hot chocolate, topped with a dollop of white whipped cream sprinkled with small chocolate shavings, and two golden toasted marshmallow pieces resting on the right side of the cup’s surface; the cup sits on a round wooden board that holds a small toasted marshmallow piece nearby, with another similar cup blurred in the background on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond, soy, oat, or any other milk alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might vary slightly.

Why is cornstarch used in Italian hot chocolate?

Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the drink its signature velvety, pudding-like texture that sets it apart from regular hot chocolate.