A steamy cup of hot chocolate takes all of us to our fondest memories. It’s that kind of drink that brings people together.
It is that one time that I like chocolate more than coffee — when you’re sharing a cold evening with loved ones with only a cup of cocoa to keep you warm.
And although I wouldn’t change anything in a traditional cup of hot chocolate, it does have a pretty attractive cousin, the white hot chocolate.
I might love this one as much as the original! Here’s how I make my unique white hot chocolate recipe.
To make normal hot chocolate, people regularly use chocolate syrup or sauce to flavor warm milk — that’s it. To make white hot chocolate, you have to work with the real deal, white chocolate, and that’s extra fun!
You’ll need a few chunks of authentic white chocolate. Get it from a confectionery or bakery supplier and stay clear from the fake stuff made with vegetable oil. You need white chocolate made with milk solids and cocoa butter. Otherwise, your white hot chocolate will most likely disappoint.
You’ll also need milk, of course, to melt the chocolate and sugar, just in case the chocolate is not particularly sweet. Finally, you’ll be surprised at how much a dash of vanilla extract can round up the hot chocolate!
Whipped cream and perhaps shaved white chocolate are fantastic garnishes, although dusting the drink with cinnamon powder will give it the most comforting scent as well.
Did you know there’s now pink chocolate? It hit the mainstream a few years ago now, and it’s naturally pink and cherry-scented; it has no artificial colorings.
How cool would it be to make a pink hot chocolate? That’s something I still have to try, but let’s see if you beat me to it!
As for other substitutions, now that you know how to make hot chocolate from scratch without syrups of cacao powder, make hot chocolate with your favorite types of chocolate and brands.
I know for a fact a Ferrero hot chocolate is amongst the most decadent drinks in existence. Can you create your own hot chocolate version? Change the world!
In a small pot, heat the milk until steamy but not boiling.
Add the chocolate and stir until melted.
Remove from the heat and add the vanilla.
Taste and adjust the sweetness.
Serve in a mug and garnish with whipped cream and shaved white chocolate.