This hot chocolate recipe is my go-to indulgence because it perfectly balances rich, dark chocolate with a smooth, velvety texture that just warms my soul from the inside out. The pinch of sea salt is an absolute game-changer, really elevating the chocolate flavor and making every sip pure magic.
Ingredients
Whole Milk: High in calcium and protein, it delivers a creamy texture.
Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, deepens the flavor and adds intensity.
Luxurious Heavy Cream: It adds a touch of luxury with its silky smooth consistency.
Sweetening the beverage, granulated sugar is responsible for countering the bitterness of the chocolate.
Extract of Vanilla: Enhances sweetness, with inviting warmth.
Sea salt enhances tastes, bringing out the flavors of sweetness and chocolate in the final product.
Ingredient Quantities
- 2 cups whole milk
- 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, place the whole milk and heat it over medium-low until it begins to steam; do not let it boil.
2. Finely chop the dark chocolate and add it to the saucepan. Whisk continuously and you will see it transform into a melted, smooth, and glossy state.
3. Blend the heavy cream into the chocolate mixture, making sure it’s fully incorporated.
4.
5. Add the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
6. Add a pinch of sea salt to amplify the taste of the chocolate and briefly whisk.
7. Maintain the mixture over low heat as you keep stirring it. It can be taken off the heat when it’s reached your preferred temperature.
8. Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, allowing some room at the top for the toppings.
9. Add a generous mound of whipped cream to the top of each mug.
10. Before serving the warm Wiesbaden Hot Chocolate, garnish it with chocolate shavings. Enjoy!
Equipment Needed
1. Medium saucepan
2. Whisk
3. Kitchen knife
4. Cutting board
5. Ladle
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Mugs
FAQ
- Can I use a milk substitute?You can use almond milk or oat milk, but they might change the taste and creaminess.
- What type of dark chocolate is best?Choose dark chocolate of high quality containing a minimum of 70% cocoa for a flavor that is decadent.
- Is it necessary to add sea salt?A pinch of sea salt improves the flavor of the chocolate, but you may leave it out if you prefer.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?Replace whole milk with a plant-based milk and heavy cream with coconut cream. Make sure the dark chocolate is dairy-free.
- How can I store leftover hot chocolate?Keep it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for no more than two days. To reheat, use a gentle flame on the stovetop.
- Can I adjust the sugar level?Certainly! Feel free to modify the amount of granulated sugar to suit your taste, or use alternative sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.
- What can I use as a topping if I don’t have whipped cream?Be it marshmallows, a dusting of cinnamon, or the delightful taste of the cup itself, there is much to experience with a good hot chocolate.
Substitutions and Variations
Whole milk: Use almond milk or oat milk as a substitute for a dairy-free alternative to whole milk.
Dark chocolate: Substitute sweet milk chocolate or white chocolate for a creamier and sweeter version.
Coconut cream is a great non-dairy alternative to heavy cream.
Sugar, in granulated form: Use honey or maple syrup instead if you want a different sweetness profile.
Vanilla extract: Substitute with almond extract or a splash of rum for a unique flavor variation.
Pro Tips
1. Chocolate Quality Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content to ensure a rich and intense chocolate flavor.
2. Milk Temperature Heat the milk slowly over medium-low heat to avoid scorching. Stir occasionally to prevent a film from forming on the surface.
3. Mixing Technique When adding the chopped chocolate, whisk continuously until completely smooth. This ensures even melting and a silky texture.
4. Flavor Layering Consider adding a touch of instant espresso powder along with the sea salt to deepen the chocolate flavor without making the drink taste like coffee.
5. Serving Tip Warm the mugs before pouring in the hot chocolate by rinsing them with hot water. This helps maintain the temperature of the drink for longer, enhancing the experience.
Wiesbaden Hot Chocolate Recipe
My favorite Wiesbaden Hot Chocolate Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Medium saucepan
2. Whisk
3. Kitchen knife
4. Cutting board
5. Ladle
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Mugs
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 100g dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, place the whole milk and heat it over medium-low until it begins to steam; do not let it boil.
2. Finely chop the dark chocolate and add it to the saucepan. Whisk continuously and you will see it transform into a melted, smooth, and glossy state.
3. Blend the heavy cream into the chocolate mixture, making sure it’s fully incorporated.
4.
5. Add the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
6. Add a pinch of sea salt to amplify the taste of the chocolate and briefly whisk.
7. Maintain the mixture over low heat as you keep stirring it. It can be taken off the heat when it’s reached your preferred temperature.
8. Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, allowing some room at the top for the toppings.
9. Add a generous mound of whipped cream to the top of each mug.
10. Before serving the warm Wiesbaden Hot Chocolate, garnish it with chocolate shavings. Enjoy!
