Home Made Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate
Who doesn’t like hot chocolate, even if it’s a little cool? Well, one of my kids, but that’s not the point. It’s delicious and easy to make and if you make it from scratch, much better than the stuff in the pouch.
This recipe uses maple syrup. You could use agave or corn syrup if you prefer, but the maple gives just a hint of woodsy without overpowering the sweet. Also, since it uses cocoa instead of chocolate, it can properly be called hot cocoa. You can find some here with this Amazon link.
Of course this needs marshmallows on top. We cut miniature ones from these.
Hot Cocoa
Since it isn't really chocolate but cocoa which makes this super yum, it seems apropos to call it hot cocoa. It is excellent and even my kids like it. Especially good on a cold night with a fire, but really, any time you want deliciousness. Add some big kid drink to it for an extra special touch.
Ingredients
Hot Cocoa
- 1 oz Sugar
- 2 T Cocoa I prefer Dutch processed
- 1/4 C Half and half Cream if you wish
- 6 oz Whole milk
- 1/4 C Maple syrup
- 1/4 t Salt
- 1 t Corn Starch optional
Instructions
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Add the cocoa, salt, sugar, half and half and corn starch to a pot large enough to hold the final product. Whisk it all together to incorporate the cocoa into the half and half.
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Add the pot to the burner. Turn to medium high and whisk while it comes to a boil. Whisk vigorously while it boils then add the milk in two stages, letting the milk come to a boil before the next addition. Bring back to a boil, reduce the heat to simmer and cook 3 or 4 more minutes to make sure it thickens properly.
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Add to cups, garnish with marshmallows and enjoy.
This recipe can easily be multiplied to serve as many guests as you need.
Recipe Notes
Corn starch may seem an odd addition, but I enjoy a slightly thicker hot cocoa than this makes without the corn starch. If you wish, for extra cocoa goodness, add an additional T of cocoa. The extra dry powder will help thicken the cocoa and will taste extra rich.
A 1/2 t of vanilla is a nice addition or a 1/8 t of peppermint. Mint is strong and not to everyone's taste.
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