Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

My kids absolutely adore hot chocolate. In fact, I have some children who can only be convinced to go outside in the winter to play in the snow if hot chocolate is on the line. But the last time I grabbed some packets to make them hot chocolate, I took a sip and I was borderline horrified. This is the delicious treat that lures them outside in the icy cold of a Wisconsin winter? My kids need better taste. This homemade hot chocolate recipe blows anything store-bought out of the water. It is simple to make but absolutely delicious and is bound to become a family favorite recipe.

Hot Chocolate in the Crockpot

I also have a homemade hot cocoa recipe for the crockpot! It is as simple as adding everything to your slow cooker and letting it sit for a few hours. This is perfect for making a big batch for Christmas morning or anytime you want to have a hot and ready cozy drink ready for serving. On the other hand, if you’re leaning toward milk chocolate, you’ll want to reduce or even eliminate the added sugar in your recipe. Milk chocolate already contains a good amount of sweetness, so scaling back the sugar will prevent the drink from becoming overly sweet and will allow the chocolate’s creamy flavor to shine. Adjust the sweetness level to match your taste for the perfect cup of hot chocolate! You can also make this recipe using chocolate chips. Milk chocolate, semi-sweet, dark chocolate, white chocolate chips, or a combination would all work.

Combine all ingredients. Add everything to a saucepan over low heat. Whisk continuously and allow the mixture to come to a low simmer. Simmer and stir. Continue cooking until all of the ingredients are smooth. Taste and adjust. If you would like it a little sweeter, stir in another tablespoon of granulated sugar, giving it plenty of time to dissolve in the hot chocolate.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, until heated through.

Add some toppings. Marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings all make delicious garnishes on a mug of hot cocoa. Make it peppermint. Use peppermint extract instead of vanilla or add a candy cane to each mug and stir to dissolve it into the hot chocolate. I also love topping with whipped cream and peppermint Andes baking chips! Caramel sauce: A drizzle of caramel is perfect. A sprinkle of salt over the caramel for a salted caramel touch is also delicious. Cinnamon sticks: Cinnamon and chocolate go together so well! Offering your guests cinnamon sticks to stir in is easy and delicious. Make it spiked. See my recommendations below for the best alcohol for hot chocolate.